Coventry-based ActOn Finishing has installed a vibratory finishing system at Rolls Royce Bristol to help the aerospace company improve its cleaning process and boost productivity.

It has enabled the engine manufacturer to reduce the process time per part three-fold, from 60 down to 10min, cut down the firm’s water consumption, while still achieving a cleaner finish.

ActOn Finishing was contacted by Rolls-Royce Brisol to look at improving cleaning during its shelling process, which leaves a build-up of ceramic slurry on the equipment used.

The Coventry firm carried out live trials at its facility in Torrington Road and found that a vibratory trough finishing machine chosen was the right solution to clean parts quickly and consistently. It also has the added flexibility of being able to process components of various sizes.

ActOn Finishing operations director Sid Gulati said: “We have a long-standing relationship with Rolls Royce having carried out sub-contract polishing for the company for a number of years. It contacted us about a problem that the company was having with its cleaning processes, and although this kind of application was new to us, we were able to conduct trials and find a solution for the client.

“ActOn found that the vibratory finishing machine produced excellent results which Rolls Royce was very happy with. We then installed the machine, provided training, and have already received some excellent feedback.”

Henry Illsley, shell process engineer at Rolls Royce Bristol, said: “ActOn were quick to develop a solution for the shell cleaning system. The machine has improved our throughput significantly and we are pleased with the quality of machine that they have manufactured and installed.

“We look forward to working with ActOn on future collaborative projects.”