Aqueous inline wash plant degreases components automatically

Citation

(2002), "Aqueous inline wash plant degreases components automatically", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 74 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2002.12774cad.016

Aqueous inline wash plant degreases components automatically

Keywords: Surface treatment, Cleaning, Components

Automatic degreasing and drying using solvents has been available for several years, but now, USF Surface Preparation has launched its "in-line" conveyor series which, it claims, will automatically process a variety of components using safe, aqueous cleaning solutions to ensure the highest standards of surface cleanliness whilst still processing components at speed (Plate 7).

Plate 7 New aqueous inline wash plant degreases components automatically

Compatible with both on-line and cell manufacturing systems, components up to 1000mm wide x 500mm high can reportedly be continuously cleaned, rinsed and dried at rates up to 200 per hour. The new equipment features a totally enclosed conveyor path along which components of various lengths can be carried at a constant speed through a programme of degreasing and washing followed by a separate rinsing operation, before final drying.

USF asserts that by using USF AquaTec aqueous cleaning solutions in the process, not only ensures a high quality stain-free surface, but also enables all solvents to be removed from the cleaning operation.

Components are fed into the system from either a conveyor, pick and place unit or manually at a height of approx 1070mm. They are then moved through a line of three stainless steel chambers to be processed using a sequence of heated, water based degreasing and rinsing solutions which are pumped under pressure through a series of spray jets positioned on all four sides of each chamber. After rinsing, each component passes through an oven section for final drying. An exhaust system extracts steam and vapour to prevent emissions from the entry and exit points.

The speed of the honeycombed mesh conveyor can be varied to allow the each item is allowed sufficient time for thorough processing. The conveyor can also be time indexed to stop for a pre-set period at persecuted stations.

An optional system for more precise indexing and dedicated jetting is also available.

Included within the high build quality of the machine are stainless steel pumps and pipe work; 300mm diameter industrial disc skimmers and washable 200 micron filters have been installed to continuously separate oil and other contaminants from all recycled wash solutions.

Details available from: USF Surface Preparation Ltd. Tel: +44 (0) 161 928 6388; Fax: +44 (0) 161 929 0381; E-mail: sales@usfinternational.com ; Website: http://www.surfacepreparation.com