From Wakefield to Singapore: How Rotajet's Swarf Washing Plant Embarks on Epic 6000-Mile Super Alloy Voyage
Rotajet Systems Limited, a UK based machinery manufacturer, have recently installed a superalloy turning cleaning, degreasing, and drying line to DMT (Donald McCarthy Trading Pte Ltd), Singapore.
DMT specialise in trading and processing non-ferrous metals, minor metals, high temperature alloys and super alloys. (http://www.donaldmcarthy.com)
Recycling Super Alloy Turnings
To recycling superalloys turnings, it’s critical that the chemical composition of the alloy being processed is to a high cleanliness specification. This is where the Rotajet wash line is essential as it is used to process the superalloy turnings prior to vacuum melting. The material can then be re-melted into a new alloy ingot which can be used high temperature applications within the aerospace and power generation sectors.
A environmentally friendly blend
Traditionally, the material has been in processed in batch form, using solvents which are continually being reclassified, resulting in stringent HSE and environmental regulations. Rotajet has developed an aqueous based system that utilize environmentally friendly blend of surfactants that clean and degrease the cut turnings in a continuous operation.
The line supplied to DMT was manufactured, assembled, and tested in Rotajet’s UK facility. As will all machines that leave the Rotajet workshop, a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) was carried out to ensure the agreed throughputs and cleaning specifications were achieved.
The machine was then disassembled and shipped to Singapore. Rotajet engineers installed and commissioned the machine, followed by onsite training for the local operators . Thanks to the Rotajet team’s methodologic approach, the installation of the steel wash plant was a smooth, seamless, and successful operation. This granted DMT to quickly maximise the machine potential.
"We were very pleased with our experience with the team at Rotajet. They have put together a robust and innovative system which includes design, build, testing, installation, and training, making it a unique and desirable solution to complement our business. We hope to continue to develop this business with the co-operation of our partners at Rotajet."