Reciprocator Increases Efficiency
The Problem
As a Tier 1 and 2 supplier of plastic composite components to major motor manufacturers, including Class A body panels and unseen structural body parts, Mitras employs a continuous improvement programme of quality and performance. As part of that policy, the company implemented a new cleaning process in its fully-automated component routing chamber, dedicated to the manufacture of floor panels for a back hoe excavator, which permits machined components to move immediately onto the next stage of manufacture totally free of dust and debris. Previously, machined components required manual ‘hoovering’ before moving on to the next stage of production.
The Solution
The installation of a reciprocating nozzle system has eliminated problems related to false triggering of process control sensors inside the chamber. The system is powered by a 22kW radial bladed blower that is housed in an acoustic enclosure mounted on the roof of the routing chamber. The blower feeds air to two ACI reciprocating nozzles, each of which delivers air through five flexible nozzles.
The Outcome
Features of the reciprocating nozzles include easy adjustment so that they can be directed accurately to specific target zones, such as difficult recesses, ensuring effective dislodging of even recalcitrant residue material.
