Industrial Washing Machines Ltd and the Importance of Testing for Global Markets

Industrial Washing Machines Ltd (IWM) are renowned for the custom design, manufacture and supply of a wide range of washing, sanitising and hygiene equipment throughout the world. With a strong home market in the UK, it is relatively easy to access machines for servicing and maintenance etc. However, it is also extremely important to ensure that our exported equipment arrives at any destination around the globe ready to function at full efficiency. It is also vital that our exported equipment shares the same benefits of reliability and ease of maintenance via our network of distributors and customers alike. Testing, Testing……. IWM! A major and crucial component to ensure our industrial cleaning equipment is delivered “fit for purpose” is testing before despatch! The UK, as previously mentioned, is straight-forward; albeit pre-delivery testing and inspection by the end-user is paramount. For equipment travelling overseas, testing necessitates a slightly different approach. Global Components The first hurdle to overcome is the choice of components. IWM utilise global brands of components that are usually readily available within the country of destination. This follows through to ensure any local or customer specific standards are met within our scope of supply. Voltage Compatibility Different voltages for motors and low voltage control circuits are sourced to ensure full and efficient compatibility wherever the machinery is to be used. Europe and Australasia (amongst others) are common at 400-415 voltage (for 3 phase supplies). North America also has a reasonably common industrial Voltage supply at 460-480V BUT there are exceptions to this rule – 208V and 575-600V do crop up regularly and have to be dealt with by IWM. Frequency of Electrical Supply The various voltages around the world are not however the only issue when it comes to testing properly. The frequency of the electrical supply that may also change from country to country. Europe and many other countries have their mains supplies at 50Hz frequency as standard. North America and some of the Middle East countries (for example) operate at 60Hz. Whilst testing a machine destined for a 60Hz supply within the UK (using a 50Hz mains supply) can be done, motors will operate at a slower speed in the UK than at their final location. This means that even with a full operational test in the UK (at 50Hz), motors will rotate at a speed 20% faster when eventually connected to a 60Hz supply. This 20% increase means that: water pumps may recirculate more water, conveyors will move faster fans will operate at higher volume etc. This can have quite dramatic effect during on-site performance trials. Custom Electrical Generation System To ensure IWM testing matches as close as practically possible to the operational conditions at the final site location; IWM have invested in a bespoke electrical generation system. Therefore, it will enable us to run the designated machinery exactly as it will function at our clients facility. We can effectively and accurately: monitor water usage and flow rates, set up conveyor speeds and safety functions evaluate fan velocities and performance confidently This all ensures that there will be no hidden surprises when connected and operating at our customers facility – from Mexico, across the rest of North America to Dubai and beyond. IWM machines are tested and documented within the UK at designated local electrical supply. Customer Samples and Quality Control As well as the important electrical functionality, IWM always requests actual customer samples of the item(s) that we are contracted to clean, sterilise and/or dry! Whether it be a simple plastic crate, a stainless steel vat, pallet or smoking rack. If we do not have an exact sample from our extensive collection; we will always endeavour to test our equipment using customers own items. Furthermore, 3D modelling within our design team is undertaken during sales and project stage. But full real-life testing cannot be replaced. All of the above forms only a part of IWM’s standard safety, quality and documentation procedures; and we are pleased to welcome any customers to our facility to inspect personally or via video link at the end or during any given project build period. Looking for a custom industrial washing machines manufacturer? Do you have any questions about our industrial cleaning equipment testing process? Then please get in touch with us today. Call us on +44 (0) 121 459 9511 or email us at info@indwash.co.uk. Otherwise, you can read a previous blog for more information: It’s All in the Name! Industrial Washing Machines Ltd.

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