Hastings Air Energy Control Delivers on a “Mist” Opportunity for Detroit Edge Tool Co.
A persistent airborne oil mist generated primarily by large surface grinders caused problems in multiple areas of the Detroit Edge Tool Co. facility. Oil mist is formed when oil used for cooling or lubricating during the machining process is aerosolized.
The Challenge
A persistent airborne oil mist generated primarily by large surface grinders caused problems in multiple areas of the facility. Oil mist is formed when oil used for cooling or lubricating during the machining process is aerosolized. At Detroit Edge Tool, it resulted in maintenance issues, contamination of electronics in the plant, and breathing challenges for operators and employees. A persistent airborne oil mist generated primarily by large surface grinders caused problems in multiple areas of the facility.
The Solution
Management considered either installing a new ambient air cleaning solution or opting for a general exhaust system. While the initial cost of installing an in-plant ambient air cleaning system was higher, it is far more cost-efficient to operate. A general exhaust system vents to the outside and thus must bring in air from the outside to make up the difference. In colder climates, the outside air must be heated, which adds significantly to heating costs.
In addition, oil mist filters must be checked regularly and cleaned or replaced. If a rigorous maintenance schedule is not kept, clogged filters can lead to more downtime for maintenance and servicing, and decreased efficiency if filters are changed too infrequently.
Management opted for an ambient air cleaning solution consisting of eight single module IVEC Systems GVMST 5000 CFM mist collectors with a central HMI (Human Machine Interface) control from Hastings Air Energy Control Inc. of New Berlin, Wis.
The Results
After a break-in period to evaluate different filters, a combination was arrived at that worked flawlessly and helped lower operating costs in multiple ways:
- Greater efficiency and energy savings.
- The Intellivent GVMST automatically adjusts fan speed and horsepower to reduce operating costs and optimize filter cleaning efficiency.
- The system reduces total electricity consumption. Extremely low air-to-cloth ratio provides extra-long filter life, plus filters can be cleaned and reused.
- Detroit Edge also keeps on-going operating costs low by using a central HMI, which helps monitor filter performance and guides maintenance to reduce downtime and boost filter efficiency. The optional smart controller notifies them when filters need servicing, even remotely.
It all adds up to a cleaner, safer working environment achieved with lower costs and minimized downtime. For Detroit Edge Tool, the GVMST system definitely delivered on a “mist” opportunity.
