Propak installs Grindingmaster from Ellesco with dust extraction by J.B.Thorne
10th November 1999

Leading precision sheet metal manufacturer Propak Sheet Metal of Stevenage recently installed a Grindingmaster from Ellesco Ltd, to handle deburring and graining of a wide range of metal components. And in partnership with Ellesco, J.B. Thorne of Leicester supplied a Nonflam W120 wet extraction unit, with all ancillary ducting, to handle the metal dust created in the process.

Propak's Stevenage plant covers 65 000sq foot with a wide variety of state -of-the-art computer controlled machines, and extensive finishing and assembly operations staffed by more than 200 employees. Its long list of blue-chip customers extends across many industry sectors including computers, electronics, telecoms, medical and defence.

Thorne has long experience in providing such solutions to many metal dust extraction problems, by linking its Nonflam wet collectors to Grindmaster and similar finishing machines. Following extensive trials and customer feedback, Thorne now offers its Nonflam units with a range of fans precisely rated for individual applications -- up to 7.5Kw in cases where it is necessary to remove sticky or oily dust from the metal being treated.

Whether in deburring of fine finishing, Nonflam collectors are a highly effective dust removal system, using a water-filled tank through which dust and residues are drawn by an impellor fan. Particles sink to the base of the collection tank, where they may be easily removed by raking into a container. Automatic sludge removal systems are also available.

Water level in the unit, from a simple connection to the mains supply, is automatically controlled. Equipment such as Nonflam dust extractors are mandatory where explosive dusts from materials like aluminium, titanium and magnesium are involved. Thorne also supplies all ducting necessary and provides a full installation service, with relevant advice on the latest COSHH requirements.

Nonflam units, available in a variety of sizes, may be sited at any distance from the grinding equipment, both inside and outside. They are virtually maintenance-free, sound-silenced to 81-83dba, or 78dba if required, and equipped with an explosion-relief facility as required under current regulations.

Normally available in mild steel with hammer enamel finish, Nonflam units may also be specified in GRP or stainless steel when operating in conditions of high water acidity.