Solvent degreasing machine to satisfy SER

Electrical and electronic interconnect solutions provider, Harwin, has installed a Pero V0 Universal solvent degreasing machine to satisfy the solvent emissions regulations.

Emily Gower is an R and D Engineer at electrical and electronic interconnect solutions provider Harwin, where she played a key role in the installation and commissioning of the company's Pero V0 Universal solvent degreasing machine - an investment that she is keen to discuss, not just because of the impending change in solvent emissions regulations (SER) due to come into force in October of this year, but also because of the cost savings implications for Harwin.

"Every stage of our manufacturing process is continuously scrutinized to ensure that we maintain the highest standards - both in terms of production quality and our environmental responsibilities," she states.

"We planned our response to SER legislation well in advance, because solvent cleaning is a vital step in the production process for our electroplated parts.

" Before the investment in the new machine, Harwin cleaned its components using a standard solvent dip tank, which required solvent changes at frequent intervals - with usage many times over the volume threshold requiring SER compliance.

"Since installing the Pero, we've been able to drastically reduce the amount of solvent used - effectively operating a closed loop solvent recycle for months at a time.

We have also reduced the man-hours required for degreasing and the load on the downstream electrochemical clean.

" Located in an almost clean-room environment, the Pero machine is treated with the respect that a chemical process deserves.

Staff members are trained to a very high level, and are aided by a detailed photo-driven operating manual.

"Harwin's Quality System is applied with genuine passion - at every level within the company," continues Gower.

"The team members operating the Pero machine are all involved in developing and documenting both training and working procedures - which are regularly reviewed to ensure that we are meeting the needs of the business.

"The working environment is very clean and orderly - in keeping with best working practices.

Visitors to the Pero often comment that the working area is more 'laboratory' than 'factory floor'." Air extracted from the Pero contains less than 3ppm solvent, and any liquid solvent entering or leaving the plant is managed using the Safe Tainer, closed connection system.

"We run a very tight ship," says Gower.

"The Pero machine offers a high level of process consistency, and is reliable and easy to operate.

It is now an integral part of our operations." Traceability and cost control are all important to the business.

All work processed through the Pero is logged on PC, and this data fed back into accounting and scheduling functions.

Even the energy use of the unit itself is constantly monitored - with a digital meter that toggles between displays showing the kWhr being used and the actual cost to the business of that energy.

Harwin Chairman Damon de Laszlo is known for his opinions on how British and European industry needs to reduce overheads if it is to compete with the threat from Asian competition.

One of his beliefs is that British companies can thrive by committing to and investing in best practice and the latest manufacturing technology.

"Since we've been operating the Pero machine we've made dramatic savings" says Gower.

"From a previous spend on solvents of around GBP800 per month, we anticipate spending no more than GBP800 in total over a full year operation of the Pero machine, which includes safe disposal of used solvent at the end of its life.

That's hard, financial proof that doing the right thing for the environment can also be a good business opportunity.".

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