Ecoclean has launched the EcoCbase, a compact, flexible cleaning system designed to provide a cost-effective entry into high-performance component cleaning with non-halogenated hydrocarbons and modified alcohols. 

Developed for companies with lower cleaning volumes, the plug-and-play system combines process reliability with resource and energy efficiency. Available in S and M versions, it can be configured for pre-cleaning, intermediate cleaning and final cleaning applications, making it suitable for general industrial manufacturers facing increasingly demanding cleanliness requirements and more diversified product portfolios. 

The single-chamber, full-vacuum system has a compact footprint and low transport height, allowing installation where space is restricted. Its manually operated loading station can also be automated on request, while batch sizes of up to 50 kg for the S version and 75 kg for the M version provide flexibility for different component requirements. 

EcoCbase supports a range of cleaning processes, including steam degreasing, spray and immersion cleaning, injection flood washing, and ultrasonic cleaning. Part-specific cleaning programs can be stored in the system control, with 50 program slots available for current and future requirements. 

Process reliability is supported by filtration during filling and emptying, bypass filtration and continuous solvent treatment through an integrated distillation unit. Separated oil is discharged into an external tank, allowing valuable machining oils to be recovered while extending solvent service life and reducing operating costs. 

Energy efficiency is further enhanced by using waste heat from distillation to heat the solvent, alongside heat recovery functions designed to reduce energy consumption. A redundant safety system monitors relevant temperatures and pressures, while the closed cleaning process minimises emissions. 

EcoCbase is also suited to decentralised cleaning stations within larger manufacturing facilities and applications where water use or wastewater disposal is restricted.  

More information www.ecoclean-group.net

UltraTEC, part of the Vollmer Group, exhibited at Medical Technology Ireland at the end of last month, bringing ultrasonic deburring and precision tool grinding technology for medical device manufacturers to the Galway Racecourse. 

Billed as one of Europe’s largest and fastest-growing medical device design and manufacturing shows, Medical Technology Ireland offered UltraTEC and Vollmer the opportunity to showcase their respective technologies.  

UltraTEC presented its ultrasonic deburring technology, including the A25S system. This uses water rather than chemicals to deburr components, removing burrs by generating cavitation with an ultrasonic horn oscillating 20,000 times per second. As the process applies no heat or chemicals and can be fully validated, it is particularly suited to medical applications, where sharp, burr-free edges and a documented, repeatable process are essential. The system already handles features such as cross-holes as small as 0.1 mm in diameter that are difficult to reach using conventional deburring methods. 

Alongside ultraTEC’s deburring technology, the stand showcased Vollmer’s VGrind Infinity Linear rotary tool grinding technology, which is rapidly establishing itself with medical tool manufacturers worldwide. Vollmer’s steady rest, which supports both the cutting flutes and the tool tip, is designed specifically to eliminate deflection and the resulting run-out, a factor that, left unchecked, can generate excess heat and reduce the accuracy of a surgeon’s hand tool in use. 

The VGrind Infinity Linear adds automated, in-process run-out compensation through its NUMROTO control software, probing and laser tool inspection for automatically recalibrating to correct for any deviation. With the HP170 or HC4 automated loading systems, the machine can run unmanned and switch between batches of different tool types without operator intervention. 

More information www.vollmer-group.com/en-uk