Project – Paint Stripping Solution

Earlier this year, we were approached by a potential new client who needed a small-scale paint stripping setup to handle parts that had been rejected during their quality control process.

The client operated a large manufacturing facility with multiple staff, so safety concerns were a top priority. They were looking for a solution that could strip paint quickly, yet be suitable for long periods of inactivity, as the need for stripping occurred only a few times each month.

After discussing various options, we settled on our cold stripping solution, Stripper HF. Despite the significant health and safety considerations surrounding this type of setup, we worked closely with the client to deliver a complete, tailored solution that met all HSE (Health and Safety Executive) guidelines.

Site Visit & Challenges

To get the project underway, we visited the client’s site, accompanied by our LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) Design Engineers. During the site assessment, we encountered several challenges:

1. The facility was large, but there was limited usable space for installing the stripping tanks.
2. There were numerous staff members with access to various areas of the site, making it difficult to find a secure, lockable location.
3. The site lacked a solid structure to run ducting for the LEV system.

Despite these obstacles, we were able to find a suitable location and make recommendations for improving security. We advised the client to install security fencing around the designated area to ensure it remained locked and secure at all times. Though the structure wasn’t solid, it was water-tight and located away from any high-traffic footpaths.

We also planned a safe route for the ducting, ensuring that it would be properly secured and that fumes would be extracted safely.

Tailoring the Solution

With a clear location in place, we moved forward with our design. We modified one of our existing stripping tank designs to better suit the client’s needs. Our LEV Design Engineer calculated the necessary pressures for the fan and mapped out the ducting route to ensure the correct airflow was achieved.

We then developed the full system, ensuring that no contact occurred with the chemical solutions during part transfers.

The Final System

The final setup included:

• Chemical Stripping Tank: Bunded with sideways-opening lids to prevent operators from leaning over the tank. The tank was equipped with a slotted extraction hood at the rear, and a basket to be used to handle parts, ensuring the operator doesn’t touch the solution.
• Chemical Neutralising Tank: Bunded, with side-opening lids to again prevent operator contact with the tank’s contents.
• Wash Bay: A designated area for washing contaminated parts after they have been neutralised.
• Electric Hoist: To safely lower and lift the basket into and out of the tanks, preventing operator contact with the solution.

Finally, our LEV engineers installed the system and ducting then carried out the necessary testing in accordance to the HSE guidelines, ensuring compliance and safety.

With nearly half a century of experience in the paint stripping industry, Ribble Technology has built a reputation for providing reliable, tailored solutions to meet the most complex requirements. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, efficient solution for your paint stripping needs, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for a no-obligation consultation. Our team is ready to discuss how we can help streamline your processes and ensure safety and efficiency every step of the way.