ABB relies on ASCOJET for automated mould cleaning

As a leading provider of energy and automation technology, ABB supplies systems and comprehensive solutions to utility and industrial companies. A new product development presented the company with a challenge. Roland Gisin, Operations Manager at ABB, explains the situation: “During a product launch process, our development team succeeded in producing a functional test specimen. However, when the casting was removed, release agent residues remained on the mould. The primer that was to be applied subsequently could not adhere properly, which hindered all subsequent production steps.”

Caption: The ASCOJET blasting unit, complete with nozzle, is housed in a soundproof, enclosed system with an integrated extraction system – ensuring an absolutely quiet environment.

ABB tried out a wide variety of cleaning methods to remove the silicone release agent from the new moulds without leaving any residue. Among other things, they attempted to remove the residues by grinding. However, this cleaning method is rather unsuitable in such cases, as significant contamination remains and the moulds suffer high levels of wear. This is where ASCOJET dry ice blasting technology came into play. José Fernandez, Application Engineer/Sales for Dry Ice Systems at ASCO, explains the unbeatable advantages of ASCOJET: “Cleaning with dry ice is both effective and gentle, without leaving any blasting agent residues. The customer is left with a clean contact surface onto which the primer can be applied without any problems – ensuring optimal adhesion in the subsequent production process. An additional advantage is that, thanks to the extremely gentle cleaning with dry ice, the moulds show no signs of wear. This guarantees maximum cost-effectiveness.”

In the case of ABB, the blasting nozzle of the ASCOJET unit is mounted on a linear drive, which is controlled via the software. The blasting unit, including the nozzle, is housed in a soundproof, enclosed system (enclosure) with an integrated extraction system. This ensures a quiet working environment – without the need for safety instructions – and a pleasant working atmosphere. The blasting process is not visible during operation, which is why the dry ice blasting is monitored via a temperature sensor in the gun housing. ASCO supplies its customer with the required dry ice at the right time, in the correct quantity and of the highest quality.

ASCO is delighted with the trust placed in it by ABB: “I am convinced that the economic and quality-assuring features of the ASCOJET dry ice blasting systems, as well as our focus on the individual needs of our customers, contribute significantly to our success,” says Fernandez. Roland Gisin from ABB also concludes: “All in all, we can sum up our experience as very positive and confirm that investing in ASCOJET technology was the right solution for us.”

Caption: Roland Gisin, Operations Manager at ABB, and José Fernandez, ASCO Application Engineer/Sales for Dry Ice Systems, are delighted with the successful collaboration.

Press release