Case Study: Hill Helicopters (Dynamiq)
For the past two and a half years, APS has been working alongside CMS SpA, part of the SCM group, to provide dust extraction and filtration systems.
APS was suggested to CMS when a previous supplier retired after providing solutions for over twenty years, marking the start of the collaboration between the two companies. APS was recommended as a company that could provide the level of service and design that was required by CMS and its customers.
Through the partnership with CMS, APS provides tailored extraction systems suited to the needs and specifications of CMS customers operating across various sectors. Once CMS has introduced APS to a client, APS then discusses the specification of the extraction system required, dependent on which CMS machine the client is purchasing, and the types of materials that will be machined. The full system is then designed, supplied, and installed by APS UK Ltd.
One of CMS’s customers, Hill Helicopters (Dynamiq), based in Stafford, purchased a CMS Poseidon machine. The material they would be machining would generate lightweight dust, and they needed a solution to minimise this problem. APS was asked by CMS to provide a full extraction system for Hill Helicopter’s CMS machine, and a vacuum clean up system for the heavier waste material that built up inside the machine during the cutting process.
Challenges faced
Hill Helicopters was establishing a new production facility to enable them to begin full-scale production of their new five-seater helicopters. The material they would be machining in their new CMS machine would generate lots of fine, lightweight dust, which could cause issues with operational efficiency and the health and safety of those working at the facility.
The company was also conscious of the amount of air that was being extracted from the facility during the winter months, which would be costly to replace.
Solution
APS supplied and installed a full turnkey system which included a Donaldson DFE filter unit, extraction fan, non-return valve, ductwork system and HVAC fan for the clean-up system. This reduced the build-up of the lightweight dust caused by the machining process for the manufacturer.
To alleviate Hill Helicopter’s concerns about additional air extraction during winter months, APS included a HEPA filter, to recirculate the extracted air back into the facility.
Benefits and outcomes
With the potential dust levels significantly reduced, Hill Helicopters was able to ensure the working environment within the new facility was healthy, and that the CMS machine could operate at a highly efficient level.
The recirculation of air ensured the manufacturer didn’t have to worry about the additional costs of air extraction in the winter months.
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