Ambitious time schedule from start to finish
The two Multi-Plate® filters were delivered fully assembled to Speira. Unlike conventional modules, which can only be assembled on site, these filters are placed on a solid base frame as pre-assembled units. That was the reason for them being transported directly to their place of use as pre-tested, ready-to-install systems.
In the steps that followed, the Multi-Plate® filters were connected to Speira’s existing rolling oil system. This included the mechanical and electrical connections as well as the integration into the digital control system. After being installed, the systems were then validated to ensure that they operate properly. Comprehensive function tests and safety checks were carried out. After that, the system was put into operation. In total, SMS group had less than three weeks to complete these tasks. Thanks to our Plug & Work solution, not only could the equipment been put into operation quickly, it was also far more convenient to integrate it into the existing rolling oil system at Speira.
The delivery of the two plate-type filters went smoothly. After we had delivered the multi-plate filters to Grevenbroich, we started erection. We connected the filters to the existing rolling oil systems within two and a half weeks and put them into operation on schedule. After a five-week trial operation and a failure rate of zero percent, we received the final acceptance certificate (FAC) from the customer.
What is it that makes the Multi-Plate® filters gold standard in the industry?
We have made optimizations not only on the design of the Multi-Plate® filters but also on the process. Worth mentioning are the flow-optimization measures that ensure the formation of a homogeneous filter cake at a uniform level for premium filtering results. Other features and enhanced design include an optimized mixing tank and the integration of a "manual emergency operation” control mode.
Speira is the successor of Hydro Aluminium’s flat rolling business, a company that is a long-standing partner of SMS group. It already operates four SMS Multi-Plate® filters as an integral part of its production process for aluminum foils for the food and pharmaceutical industries. In view of the outstanding performance of this filter technology, Speira expanded its capacity by acquiring two additional Multi-Plate® filters of latest design. The mission of the two additional Multi-Plate® filters is to filter the rolling oil in the light-gauge strip rolling mill. This production line focusses on manufacturing of beverage can stock, particularly for can lids. The two new Multi-Plate® filters were installed next to each other inside the same building. With the two MPF2-13, providing two stacks with 13 filter plates each, Speira has significantly expanded the capacity for rolling-oil cleaning. Each filter has a volume flow capacity of 3250 liters per minute. After the successful commissioning of the two new MPFs, Speira is now operating a total of six Multi-Plate® filters made by SMS group.