Industrial Cleaning Case Study:
I.S. Machine Cleaning
Encirc | Elton, Chester
Organisation Profile
Encirc is a leading manufacturer of glass containers, with three sites across the UK. They are unique in that they offer a 360-degree solution to the beverage supply chain, encompassing manufacturing, filling and logistics. Their company values reflect a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, employee development, and high performance. We are proud to work with such a highly respected name in the glass manufacturing industry.
The Issues
I.S. Machines in glass manufacturing facilities require regular cleaning for several reasons. These machines can accumulate significant amounts of oil, grease and cullet over time, which can increase the risk of breakdowns due to debris buildup or production downtime due to product contamination.
However, the most important reason for I.S. Machine cleaning is for Health & Safety, and to mitigate the risk of fire. Due to the nature of the production process, fires are most likely to begin at the I.S. Machine level and, depending on the extent of oil buildup, rapidly spread to other areas of the factory.
Objectives
Fully clean the I.S. Machine of cullet, oil, grease and contaminants
Our I.S. Machine cleaning projects involve throughly cleaning all areas of the machine, including moulds, control boxes, intermediate platforms, supporting steelwork, and pipes. We use specialised cleaning equipment and appropriate degreasers to remove buildups of cullet, oil, grease and debris.
Mitigate fire risk
As outlined above, the primary objective of I.S. Machine cleaning is to mitigate Health & Safety hazards, not just for aesthetic purposes. By removing buildups of oil, carbon, grease and cullet, we significantly reduce the risk of fire and contribute to safer overall operations.
Help I.S. Machines pass inspection
Depending on the company, I.S. Machines may be graded based on their cleanliness, productivity, and condition. Our goal at Kingfisher is to help I.S. Machines achieve top inspection scores – at least, from a cleanliness standpoint.
Prevent oil or water contamination to other parts of the factory
I.S. Machines require deep cleaning with high-pressure jet washers, therefore it was important to prevent water, oil or cullet from spraying onto nearby equipment and machines. We used tarpaulins to cordon off the working area and to prevent contamination.
Results Delivered
Our team of specialist industrial cleaning operatives delivered a comprehensive clean of all I.S. Machine components while adhering strictly to safe cleaning practices. Each machine was cordoned off with tarpaulin to prevent contamination with other machines and to prevent water spraying to other areas of the factory.
We received positive feedback from Encirc staff and we are proud to continue working for their Elton site on a regular basis.
