The Perfect Fit: How McKechnie Aluminium Solved Swarf Removal with the Silvent 2055 AR

The Perfect Fit: How McKechnie Aluminium Solved Swarf Removal with the Silvent 2055 AR

In the fast-paced world of aluminium extrusion, efficiency and precision are paramount. Every step of the manufacturing process, from casting the billets to the final fabrication, demands meticulous attention to detail. One of the most persistent challenges in this industry is the effective and safe removal of swarf – the small chips and shavings of metal that are an inevitable byproduct of machining and cutting extrusions. For McKechnie Aluminium, a leader in the New Zealand aluminium industry, finding the optimal solution for this task led them to a trial that highlighted the critical balance between power, ergonomics, and design. This is the story of how they discovered the perfect tool for the job in the Silvent 2055 AR air gun, supplied by Spray Nozzle Engineering.

The Challenge: More Than Just Hot Air

McKechnie Aluminium's commitment to quality means that every extrusion leaving their facility must be pristine. Swarf, if not completely removed, can compromise the final product's quality, interfere with subsequent processes like powder coating or anodising, and even pose a safety hazard to workers. The traditional method of using compressed air to blow away swarf is effective, but not all air guns are created equal. The ideal tool needs to be powerful enough to dislodge stubborn particles, yet precise enough to navigate the intricate profiles of custom extrusions. Furthermore, in a modern manufacturing environment, operator safety and energy efficiency are non-negotiable. This means minimising noise levels to protect hearing and reducing compressed air consumption to control operational costs.

The Trial: A Tale of Two Air Guns

Recognising the need for a specialised solution, McKechnie Aluminium approached Spray Nozzle Engineering to trial two of Silvent's highly-regarded air guns for their swarf removal application. The initial contender was the Silvent 2973. On paper, this air gun is a powerhouse. With a formidable blowing force and a design geared towards heavy-duty cleaning, it seemed like a logical choice for a demanding industrial environment.

However, practical application revealed a challenge. While the 2973 delivered on power, its size and design proved to be unwieldy when working with extrusions that featured small, tight corners. The very power that made it effective in open areas became a hindrance in confined spaces, making it difficult for operators to direct the airflow precisely where it was needed most. This experience underscored a crucial point: in industrial cleaning, brute force isn't always the answer.

The Solution: The Silvent 2055 AR Steps In

This is where the Silvent 2055 AR entered the picture and ultimately stole the show. This air gun presented the perfect synergy of features that McKechnie Aluminium was looking for. While still delivering a potent blowing force, the 2055 AR boasted a more ergonomic design and a nozzle shape that was perfectly suited for reaching into the nooks and crannies of complex aluminium profiles.

The key to the 2055 AR's success in this trial was its ability to strike a harmonious balance. It offered the power necessary to effectively remove swarf, but its design allowed for greater control and maneuverability. This meant that operators could work more efficiently and with greater precision, ensuring a thoroughly clean extrusion every time.

But the benefits didn't stop at performance. True to the Silvent brand, the 2055 AR also delivered on the promise of a safer and more efficient workplace. Silvent's patented nozzle technology is engineered to reduce harmful noise levels, a significant factor in preventing long-term hearing damage for operators. Furthermore, the design optimises air consumption, leading to substantial energy savings for the company. In a world where sustainability and operational efficiency are increasingly important, these features are a significant value-add.

Why the 2055 AR Was the Clear Winner for McKechnie

The trial at McKechnie Aluminium serves as a perfect case study for any industrial operation looking to optimise their cleaning processes. It demonstrates that the "best" tool is not always the most powerful one, but the one that is best suited to the specific application. The Silvent 2055 AR emerged as the champion because it offered a holistic solution:

• Ergonomics: Its user-friendly design reduced operator fatigue and improved maneuverability.

• Nozzle Shape: The precisely engineered nozzle allowed for targeted cleaning in hard-to-reach areas.

• Power: It provided ample blowing force to effectively dislodge swarf without being excessive.

• Noise Reduction: The significant decrease in noise levels contributed to a safer and more pleasant working environment.

• Efficiency: Optimised air consumption translated to lower energy costs and a smaller environmental footprint.

Partner with the Experts

The success of McKechnie Aluminium' s trial highlights the importance of partnering with knowledgeable suppliers who can provide not just products, but solutions. At Spray Nozzle Engineering, we pride ourselves on understanding the unique challenges of our clients' industries and recommending the most effective tools for their specific needs.

If you're facing challenges with swarf removal, industrial cleaning, or are simply looking to improve the safety and efficiency of your compressed air applications, we invite you to get in touch. Our team of experts is ready to help you find your perfect fit, just as we did for McKechnie Aluminium with the Silvent 2055 AR.