Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions (WMFTS), has strengthened its manufacturing capability with the installation of a MecWash MWX400 aqueous cleaning system. The investment follows the success of an existing MecWash already in operation within the group, which has consistently delivered exceptional results.

WMFTS is a global leader with over 60 years of engineering expertise in high-quality peristaltic pumps and fluid handling solutions, supplying critical components to industries ranging from industrial manufacturing and pharmaceuticals to biotechnology and food production. WMFTS identified the need to upgrade its cleaning process to meet stringent ISO 13485 medical device quality standards. WMFTS also needed to increase productivity.

Previously, the business relied on semi-automatic and manual cleaning methods. While functional, these processes were labour-intensive, inconsistent and less efficient. The company required a robust, automated system capable of delivering repeatable precision cleaning of machined pump components. The components are made from a variety of materials including glass-filled nylon, stainless steel and aluminium. The company required the capability to clean multiple types of components simultaneously.

Ian Harvey, value stream manager, is pleased with the impact of the MWX400.

The initial stages of the discussion between the MecWash team and the customer was designed to understand the specific cleaning challenges and establish the optimum parts washing system for their application. This process involves MecWash’s in-house laboratory and the design team to build the optimum system, process and chemical solution to meet the specific needs of the customer.

Taking the time to carefully understand and evaluate these requirements, the MecWash team has only one aim: to provide the customer with a component cleaning system which delivers superior performance and ongoing reliability, as economically as possible.

Paul Jarratt, MecWash sales manager, comments:

“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,” said Paul.

Since installation, the MWX400 has delivered significant operational and quality improvements:

• ISO 13485 Compliance: Contributed to WMFTS achieving the stringent ISO 13485 quality standard.
• Assured Cleaning & Drying: Reliable, repeatable results across all component types.
• Elimination of Manual Cleaning: 100% removal of labour-intensive manual cleaning tasks.
• Supplier Component Cleaning: Extra capacity enables WMFTS to clean supplier components to the same high standards.
• Improved Drying: Components emerge drier, reducing handling time.
• Productivity Gains: 20% increase in throughput within the cleaning area.
• Flexibility: Ability to clean mixed batches of different components in one cycle.

The MWX400 combines ultrasonics with high-flow washing, rinsing and hot air drying.

Ian Harvey, value stream manager at Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions, comments:

"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, managing director at MecWash, shares his confidence in working with customers from the hydraulic power sector:

“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,” said John.