Ian Harvey, value stream manager at WMFTS, with the MecWash MWX400Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions (WMFTS) has strengthened its manufacturing operations with the installation of a MecWash MWX400 aqueous cleaning system, marking a significant step forward in its component cleaning capabilities supplied by Tewkesbury-based
MecWash Systems Ltd. The decision to invest in the MWX400 follows the proven success of an existing MecWash system already in use within the group, which has consistently delivered high-performance results.
A global leader in peristaltic pumps and fluid handling solutions, WMFTS has over six decades of engineering expertise and supplies critical components to industries including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food production and industrial manufacturing. The company identified the need to upgrade its cleaning process to meet the stringent ISO 13485 medical device quality standard, while also improving productivity across its operations.
Previously, WMFTS relied on semi-automatic and manual cleaning methods. Although functional, these processes were labour-intensive and lacked the consistency required for high-precision manufacturing. The company needed a robust, automated solution capable of delivering repeatable, high-quality cleaning across a variety of materials such as glass-filled nylon, stainless steel and aluminium, with the flexibility to clean mixed batches of components simultaneously.
Long-term reliabilityMecWash worked closely with WMFTS to understand the specific cleaning challenges and develop a tailored solution. This collaborative process involved MecWash’s in-house laboratory and design team, who evaluated the requirements and engineered a system that would deliver superior performance and long-term reliability.
Paul Jarratt, MecWash sales manager, explained: “Achieving the highest cleanliness standards is crucial for WMFTS. Even the smallest levels of contamination can have significant long-term detrimental effects so it was vital to implement a solution that absolutely guarantees spotlessly clean and dry components.
“After reviewing WMFTS’s requirements, it was clear the most effective system for them was the MWX400. The MWX400 combines ultrasonics with high-flow washing, rinsing and hot air drying, to deliver outstanding results across multiple materials and it also has the capability to clean multiple types of components simultaneously. We were delighted to have met the cleaning requirements of WMFTS. The MWX series is proven to meet the toughest challenges in parts washing. It is robust, and combines precision cleaning with 24/7 dependability.”
Operational efficiencySince installation, the MWX400 has delivered notable improvements in operational efficiency and product quality. The system has helped WMFTS meet ISO 13485 standards, eliminated manual cleaning tasks, and increased throughput in the cleaning area by 20%. It has also enabled the company to clean supplier components to the same high standards, while improving drying performance and reducing handling time.
Ian Harvey, value stream manager at WMFTS, said: “We already had a MecWash within the group which has proved to be very reliable and give great results. The MWX400 has not only delivered the quality and consistency we needed but also improved productivity and freed our team from manual cleaning tasks.”
John Pattison, MecWash’s managing director, added: “The improvements to the efficiency of the cleaning process at WMFTS is a testament to the reliable power of the MecWash MWX400 system. Our parts washing systems are trusted by international blue-chip companies and numerous Tier 1 and Tier 2 fluid power component manufacturers. We are confident the MWX series provides the most rigorous component cleaning in global manufacturing.
“The MecWash approach ensures that our customers are fully supported throughout the product lifecycle. The large amount of repeat business at MecWash is a testament to the long-term relationships we have built with our customers.”