|
Dust extraction by J.B.Thorne of Leicester has been chosen for the brand-new composites training centre at Rycotewood College in Thame, recently officially opened by Tom Walkinshaw, chairman of the TWR Arrows team. Hi-tech composites for top-level motor racing are among major applications for the new centre, which already has strong links with major F1 teams and the motorsport industry. It will provide students with cutting-edge training in composite materials, particularly at the technician level. Supported by the South East Development Agency (SEEDA), the new facility is fully equipped with clean room, trim shop, assembly area, autoclave and inspection facilities. The Polytex L22 installed by Thorne collects dust from six separate downdraught benches used in the trim shop for cutting and fettling a range of fibre reinforced resin systems. Special tool are used to work on these extremely hard composite materials, the dust from which is then removed via ducting under the benches to the externally sited Polytex. This uses a powerful fan to extract the dust from each work station, trapping it in a filter bag system. With the addition of a top-mounted high-efficiency particle arrestor (HEPA) operating efficiency of 99.997 per cent is possible, allowing cleaned air to be vented back into the working area if desired. In a multiple installation covering several work stations, units may be switched on individually, bringing further energy-efficiency. Thorne can supply individual units, or a complete turnkey package including all ducting. The company can also advise on the latest COSHH requirements, and carry out tests on the efficiency of existing installations. Because of their relatively small footprint, Polytex units of various sizes and extraction capacities may be sited even in restricted areas, both inside and outside. |
 |
Thorne extraction helps put college in F1 pole position