Custom Fan Installation for Scrap System in Africa

Case Study

Project Overview

integratedAIR was approached by a prominent beverage packaging manufacturer in Africa, which required a significant upgrade to its existing scrap extraction system. The company’s can-end manufacturing facility faced challenges due to the placement of critical fans on a mezzanine in the baler area. This area was congested and difficult to access, reducing the operating capacity and maintenance access to the fans. integratedAIR was tasked with providing a solution to improve airflow and accessibility by relocating and upgrading the scrap extraction system.

Building a Better Scrap Extraction System

The client needed new fans to replace the old ones, which were located in a congested baler area. These fans had to be installed outside the existing space to improve access and reduce congestion. The fans would eventually be housed in a new room, and integratedAIR recommended that this space be sheltered from direct sunlight for optimal fan performance and longevity.

The project involved a complete mechanical installation, plus all logistics. It began with a pre-visit from an integratedAIR engineer to conduct a Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) test on the existing fans, ensuring a smooth transition. integratedAIR designed and supplied a complete scrap extraction system with custom-built conveying pipework, heavy-duty scrap chopping fans, and key mechanical components to elevate the system's durability and efficiency.

Conveying Pipework

integratedAIR provided a complete set of purpose-designed conveying pipework to improve airflow throughout the system. To maximise performance, the pipework was fully welded with a perfectly smooth internal finish. Pull-ring connectors with u-shaped seals secured by two fasteners were employed to ensure precise alignment, effective sealing, and reduced installation time. This also simplified any necessary future access for maintenance.

Industrial-Strength Scrap Fans

Four heavy-duty scrap chopping and conveying fans were supplied with IE3 electric motors, v-belt drive sets, drive guards, and chassis. These fans were put in place to handle the rigours of the manufacturing environment while maintaining high performance and integrity within the system. integratedAIR also provided fan isolators, floor stands, fan inlet and outlet transformations, and diverter valve support stands to complete the system. Additionally, the project included the installation of pneumatics to extend compressed air to the valves and cargo packing for export and shipping.

“Our customer was facing frequent blockages with their old system. The poor vacuum, caused by overloading, and the lack of accessibility were significant issues that impacted efficiency. We stepped in and installed a new scrap fan area and correctly sized ducting to meet the system's exact requirements. After completing the new setup, we stripped out the old fans and platform and connected the new ducting to the existing separators. This cleared up space in the baler room, making it much more accessible and provided the client with a fully functioning system. The difference is night and day.”
Adrian, Sales Director

integratedAIR’s Expertise

The newly installed system greatly improved the facility’s scrap extraction capabilities and resolved the issue of maintenance accessibility. By moving the fans to an external area, integratedAIR helped to reduce congestion in the baler zone, streamlining the client’s production process. The client’s investment in this upgrade has optimised the plant’s workflow and future-proofed the operation for continued growth.

This project highlights integratedAIR’s ability to provide customised, high-performance solutions that address current operational needs and future growth potential. If your facility faces similar challenges with outdated or inefficient scrap extraction systems, integratedAIR has the expertise and resources to deliver a solution tailored to your needs. Click here to contact us concerning custom-made integrated scrap systems for your business.