Eight times faster shot blasting at ML Constructie

The lack of flexibility and unsatisfactory powder coating qualities at external job shops induced a Dutch manufacturer of industrial furniture to bring its coating operation in-house. Unlike its competitors, ML Constructie decided to also perform paint preparation by shot blasting in-house with an automatic shot blasting machine from Rösler. Compared with manual processes, the shot blasting cycle times are not only eight times faster, the
automatic solution also produces better qualities at lower costs.

Since manual blast operations are hard and exhausting, it is very difficult to find and keep the people for this kind of work. With the Rösler blast machine, however, employees must only place workpieces onto the respective fixtures and remove them after the blast process.

Another significant contribution towards a better working environment is the low noise emissions, which are considerably lower than manual blast rooms. Moreover, the automated shot-blast process is eight to 10 times faster, while another benefit is the blast machine’s two rails in ‘Y’ design. This configuration allows the operator to place workpieces onto the fixture at one rail branch, while workpieces from the other rail branch undergo blasting. Therefore, unproductive idle equipment times aremore or less a thing of the past. Last but not least, the overall blast cleaning quality is considerably better.

“In the automated shot-blast process, blast media gets into even the tiniest workpiece
corners,” says Ben Luizink, co-owner atML Constructie.”This is nearly impossible with manual shot-blasting operations. Furthermore, the Rösler shot-blast machine is very
tight and emits practically no dust. Since we are coating the workpieces in the same production hall, this is a huge benefit.”
For further information www.rosler.com

IMI Truflo Marine invests in MecWash system

The addition of the MecWash MWX300aqueous cleaning system has made a dramatic impact at IMI Truflo Marine, increasing cleaning productivity by over six times while reducing the operational manpower required. IMI Truflo Marine noted a significant improvement in both efficiencies and the standard of cleaning, helping the business to meet global demand. This historic naval valve manufacturer makes flow control solutions, with over 120,000 valves in service on 24 of the world’s naval fleets.

The precision cleaning and sophisticated drying processes offered by the MWX300 ensures components produced by IMI Truflo Marine are free of contaminants, preserving the critical tolerances necessary. The company’s parts have very tight tolerances, and even small amounts of dirt or contamination can prevent them from functioning properly.

Kurtis Smith, continuous improvement engineer at IMI Truflo Marine, says: “Truflo needed a machine that could provide a consistent and high-quality finish on valves in sensitive materials used in marine systems. It was important for the business that the new system could improve productivity with less manpower required in the parts washing process.

“Since the installation in 2022, the MWX300 has delivered impressive cleaning results, especially considering its size,” he continues.“The cleaning process has always been challenging due to the sensitivity of the parts and the mirror finish required. Previously, we could only clean three valve kits in a 30-minute cycle; using the MWX300 we are cleaning 12 kits within 18 minutes, with a smooth and polished finish.”

The previous cleaning method at IMI Truflo Marine was manual and required the blow drying of parts with air guns after washing. Now, the company simply loads baskets of parts into the MWX300 and presses start.
For further information www.mecwash.com

ModuleWorks partners with Mitsubishi Electric

ModuleWorks, a supplier of software components for the digital manufacturing industry, says Mitsubishi Electric has joined its Strategic Partner Programme. The Strategic Partner Programme initiated by ModuleWorks represents a commitment to driving the development of intelligent, integrated manufacturing solutions by fostering collaboration and innovation between ModuleWorks and key technology providers. Mitsubishi Electric, which is the latest addition to the growing network of partners,collaboratedpreviously with ModuleWorks on its shop-floor digitalisation strategy.
For further information www.moduleworks.com

Guyson and Inventec Performance Chemicals join forces

Guyson International, a manufacturer of industrial cleaning equipment, and Inventec Performance Chemicals, a provider of speciality chemicals and cleaning solutions, are entering a strategic partnership aimed at delivering cutting-edge precision cleaning solutions to a global customer base.The partnership will provide UK customers with state-of-the-art cleaning processes and services that meet stringent industry requirements.

Inventec Performance Chemicals specialises in developing cleaning solutions tailored to specific industrial needs. The company’s dedication to research and innovation supports an extensive portfolio of high-performance cleaning chemicals and solvents designed to tackle challenging cleaning tasks with precision and sustainability.

By combining their strengths, Guyson International and Inventec Performance Chemicals aim to disrupt the precision cleaning landscapewith their new range of environmentally friendly chemicals and solvents, thus offering a comprehensive solution to customers seeking innovative and efficient cleaning processes.

Both companies are excited about the opportunity to leverage their knowledge, capabilities, and resources to address the evolving needs of industries that demand pristine cleanliness, product quality and sustainability. Together, Guyson International and Inventec Performance Chemicals will provide technical support and tailored solutions to customers, ensuring that they achieve the optimal cleaning results.

“We are delighted to partner with Inventec Performance Chemicals, who are truly setting the standard through their new sustainable solvents,” says Mark Viner, managing director of Guyson International’s Blast and Wash Division. “Our shared commitment to innovation and excellence will enable us to offer our customers the best in precision cleaning equipment and cleaning chemicals.This partnership marks the beginning of a promising era in precision cleaning solutions.”
For further information www.guyson.co.uk

Succession planning proves vital at Alloy Wire

A UK manufacturer of round, flat and profile wire is on course to celebrate a record year, less than 12 months on from a MBO designed to protect the ‘unique values’ of the business.
Alloy Wire International, which began trading in the Black Country more than 77 years ago, has seen sales rocket by £3m since completion of the deal in January, taking turnover to £18m with the prospect of breaking £20m in 2024.Demand from customers in more than 63 countries has been behind the initial boost, but the company is now adamant that its commitment to extending employee ownership will drive ongoing success.
For further informationwww.alloywire.com