MecWash Systems, a global leader in the manufacture of advanced industrial parts cleaning systems, continues to drive innovation in hydraulic manufacturing with its high-performance component cleaning solutions.
Hydraulic power systems demand exceptional cleanliness to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and longevity. MecWash’s expertise in delivering superior cleaning technology has made it the preferred choice for industry leaders including Parker Hannifin, Hydraforce Hydraulics, Bosch Rexroth, JCB, HUSCO, Concentric AB, IMI Precision, and Related Fluid Power.
Paul Jarratt, sales manager at MecWash, commented: "Hydraulic systems must remain entirely free from contamination during both production and operation to avoid damaging components, reduced flow or pressure and even system failure. To meet these critical standards, many of our hydraulic sector clients choose the MecWash MWX series, considered by many to be the benchmark for precision component cleaning, the pre-assembly cleaning system tackles the most challenging contaminants.
The MWX series durable and combine precision cleaning with 24/7 dependability.
“The MWX system is designed for removing contamination such as process residues and particulate matter through a combination of powerful ultrasonics, high flow washing and rinsing, dedicated jetting, and vacuum drying, ensuring an immaculate component finish.
“The MWX series comprises the MWX300, MWX400 and mostly recently, the MWX600. The choice of system depends upon the size of the components to be manufactured by the customer and to fit the exact cleaning demands and automation requirements, There are numerous options available, but all models are highly durable and combine precision cleaning with 24/7 dependability.
“Many hydraulic manufacturers opt for systems equipped with dual-frequency ultrasonic cleaning, operating at 25 kHz and 40 kHz frequencies simultaneously. This approach dislodges even the smallest particles without causing cavitation, making it ideal for applications demanding rigorous cleanliness specifications. The ultrasonics break down the contamination before it’s removed by the aqueous wash. This delivers a deeper, more effective clean, especially for complex components used in hydraulic systems,” added Paul.
The aqueous cleaning process is enhanced by bespoke chemical solutions developed by the in-house chemist at MecWash, Dave Pawson. These specially formulated solutions dissolve oils and debris effectively, whilst reducing reliance on harmful chemicals, like solvents. Each solution is developed in line with ISO 16232 standards and tailored to the customer’s materials and contamination profile.
MecWash has experience in creating parts washing systems for applications including:
HUSCO commissioned seven MecWash systems to clean hydraulic control valves used in off-highway applications, including agricultural machinery, materials handling and construction, to the exacting standards demanded by HUSCO’s customers across the globe.
MecWash’s reputation in the fluid power industry is backed by extensive global experience. HUSCO International, for example, has invested in fifteen MecWash systems across their facilities in the UK, US and China. The systems clean hydraulic control valves used in off-highway applications, including agricultural machinery, materials handling and construction, to the exacting standards demanded by HUSCO’s customers around the world.
The systems were designed to tackle solid particle contamination which can interfere with the lubrication process in hydraulic fluid systems. Any wear to the components would result in additional maintenance and repair costs, and a decrease in the system’s service life. The MWX400 and its predecessor, the MIDI, provide HUSCO with 24/7 reliability, resulting in a high volume of components cleaned and entirely free from contamination
- Electro-hydraulic controllers
The MecWash system installed at Hydraforce had rotational washing technology with ultrasonics, to meet the highly stringent cleanliness specifications. Hydraforce manufacture a wide range of hydraulic valves, primarily for customers in the off-road and agricultural vehicle sector The manufacturing process sees machining followed by resin impregnation which can cause machined residue to adhere to the component.
The MecWash MIDI system uses ultrasonics to dislodge this material before the aqueous washing process removes it, resulting in a highly cleaned component that is then ready for transfer onto the build line. The use of ultrasonics in combination with the rotational, high volume, single chamber wash process, for which MecWash has gained a leading reputation, added a further significant dimension to the cleaning process.
The MWX300 at Hydraulic System Products.
- Hydraulic manifold control valves and power units
Hydraulic System Products (HSP) contacted MecWash Systems to upgrade their component cleaning to meet increasing demand and the strict cleanliness requirements of their clients. HSP designs and manufactures hydraulic test equipment, valves and niche control components for fluid power systems used in industrial and mobile applications.
The MWX300 was selected as the most effective machine for HSP’s application, with full ultrasonic cleaning functionality. The ultrasonic wash and ultrasonic rinse capabilities transmit high-frequency sound waves through the wash solution which destabilises the contamination and facilitates fast and economical cleaning with high process quality.
HSP were impressed at the MWX300’s capabilities, with the system producing excellent cleaning results. The increase in cleaning efficiency and the reduction in environmental impact generates lasting benefits for the manufacturer.
John Pattison, managing director of MecWash, added: "Cleanliness is critical in hydraulic systems, where even minimal particle contamination can compromise lubrication, leading to increased maintenance, component damage, and reduced system lifespans. The advanced use of ultrasonics within MecWash systems offers substantial benefits to hydraulic manufacturers dealing with a wide range of complex contamination challenges.
“Our team precisely understands the unique demands of the hydraulic sector. The proven performance and tailored expertise that MecWash has provided for the fluid power industry gives us the confidence to meet and exceed the stringent demands of our hydraulic customers across the world," said John.
For more information about MecWash’s comprehensive range of cleaning solutions for the manufacturing industry, visit mecwash.com