Introduction
Silotank is a prominent GRP and thermoplastic manufacturer of storage tanks, silos and pressure and process vessels for chemicals, liquids and drinking water. Based in Northern Ireland the company ships their products to clients across the UK, Europe and beyond.
A new SCM X400 5 Axis CNC machine, provided by M.J. Woodworking Machines, for the milling of Silotank’s plastic and timber components has recently been installed on site, along with a new dust extraction system designed and installed by Dust Control Environmental (DCE).
Project Requirements
The new CNC machine, whilst enhancing production efficiency, will generate a substantial amount of dust and particulates. Airborne, these contaminants pose a risk to both workers health and the machines performance.
The waste produced by the CNC is a combination of dust and chippings, each requiring a high standard of control from the same extraction unit to meet HSE requirements.
Furthermore the creation of combustible dust poses a risk of explosion, necessitating equipment of the appropriate standard to operate safely in such an environment.
How DCE met the Requirements
Recognizing the importance of an efficient and compliant dust extraction system, Silotank turned to Dust Control Environmental (DCE), a leading company in the UK’s dust and fume extraction sector, for expert guidance.
Collaborating closely to understand specific operational challenges, DCE provided an Envirojet reverse jet bag filter extraction system to proficiently manage the different particulates. Manufactured and installed to ATEX standards, the system can be used safely in a zone where combustible dust is apparent.
With a commitment to energy efficiency, DCE engineered a system to electronically monitor the CNC machine so the extraction fan speed will automatically reduce on completion of a job, keeping energy usage to a minimum.
In addition a vacuum point was provided, free of charge, to help Silotank clean the CNC production area quickly without the use of brushes and air lines in accordance with HSE guidelines.
Despite torrential rain, the system was installed and commissioned by DCE engineers on the designated day, with a focus on meeting the installation deadline.
The Benefits
Efficiently extracting the dust and chippings not only controls the airborne hazardous substances, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment, but with less housekeeping required, savings will also be made on manual labour hours.
The machinery will also be protected from the buildup and ingress of dust, reducing maintenance and repairs whilst helping to extend the lifecycle of equipment.
The monitoring and fan speed reduction system will show tangible energy savings.
With the installation of the Dust Extraction system Silotank demonstrate a commitment to both worker safety and environmental sustainability.
Silotank Managing Director, Seamus Carmichael, commented “We decided to select DCE for the job based on the high level of technical support provided from the outset and throughout the project. The equipment was delivered ahead of agreed timescale and installed in difficult weather conditions and still to programme.”
For more information on Dust Control Environmental products and services go to www.dustcontrolenvironmental.com or call 01924 335500.
