Published on 28 January 2013
Following on from a useful Product and Process Review, Permoid Industries Ltd asked TWI to conduct an analysis of debris from the fuel tanks that they manufacture for earth-moving giant JCB.
Steve Toas, Quality Manager comments: 'JCB is an important customer of ours and Permoid aim to meet and exceed cleanliness specifications. We were asked to carry out an analysis on two samples of debris and worked with TWI in this examination.'
Joining Forces North East facilitated this work with a Development Study which involved -
- assessing the different types of particle and their source
- assessing the chemical composition of each type of particle
- determining the proportion of each type of particle
- suggesting methods of reducing particulate matter
Using a light microscope, a scanning electron microscope (SEM), image analysis and photomicrography, TWI was able to distinguish three main types of debris - scale, spatter and swarf. Permoid were advised on the likely sources of the debris and what action they can take to prevent future incidences. Recommendations included the use of a backing gas to minimise scale, and the manipulation of the welding parameters and changing the welding gas to reduce spatter. The swarf had been introduced by external contamination, sources of which need to be identified independently.
'Thank you for delivering the report within the timescale I requested. I was very impressed with the professionalism of the report and the conduct of all TWI's staff; we are now producing an even better quality product as a result of your recommendations', said Steve Toas.
For information about TWI's capabilities please contact us.