Soldering Tip Extraction
Purex International Ltd, a leading manufacturer of fume extraction systems, asked to address the health and safety concerns associated with soldering in electronics manufacturing. The process of soldering produces hazardous fumes containing flux residues and metallic particles, posing significant risks to workers. This case study explores how Purex implemented a soldering tip extraction system to mitigate these risks and improve the safety and productivity for our customer. Our customer was based in a college, who had some unique requests.
Challenges
Electronic manufacturing involves extensive soldering, leading to the generation of potentially harmful fumes. These fumes can cause respiratory issues, eye irritation, and long-term health problems for workers. The primary challenges were:
Health Risks: Protecting workers from exposure to hazardous soldering fumes.
Compliance: Meeting occupational health and safety regulations.
Productivity: Ensuring the extraction system does not hinder the soldering process.
Flexibility: Adapting the solution to various soldering stations and workflows, while being able to remove as much of the system as possible so the work space could be used.
Objectives
- Implement an effective fume extraction system directly at the soldering tip.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
- Maintain or enhance productivity and efficiency in the soldering process.
- Provide a flexible solution adaptable to different workstations and removable when required.
Solution
Purex designed and deployed a 200 machine and utilised this for soldering tip extraction systems. This featured:
Customised Capture Methods: By placing the duct work system within the existing desktop trunking. The users are able to attach as many extraction points as required, while keeping the desk space usable when the extraction is not needed.
HEPA Filtration: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to remove microscopic particles from the extracted fumes.
User-Friendly Interface: Simple control panels and indicators for maintenance and operation.
Automatic flow: The 200 unit will increase and decrease its flow automatically ensuring the correct flow for all users.
Energy Efficiency: As the 200 will always increase or decrease its speed to ensure correct flow, it will use the minimal amount of electricity to achieve this.
Implementation
Site Assessment: Conducted a thorough assessment of the soldering stations to understand the specific requirements and challenges.
System Design: Tailored the extraction units and nozzles to fit the specific soldering tools and workflows.
Installation: Implemented the extraction systems with minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
Training: Provided comprehensive training for employees on the proper use and maintenance of the extraction systems.
Monitoring: Set up regular monitoring and maintenance schedules to ensure optimal performance.
Results
Health and Safety: Significant reduction in airborne contaminants at soldering stations, leading to improved respiratory health and overall well-being of workers.
Regulatory Compliance: The system ensured compliance with local and international health and safety standards, avoiding potential fines and sanctions.
Productivity: The targeted extraction did not interfere with the soldering process, maintaining, and in some cases, enhancing productivity due to a cleaner and safer working environment.
Employee And Student Satisfaction: Increased user satisfaction and morale due to the improved working conditions.
Conclusion
The implementation of Purex's 200 tip extraction system successfully addressed the health risks associated with soldering fumes, ensured regulatory compliance, and maintained high productivity levels. The flexible and efficient design of the system made it adaptable to various workstations, providing a comprehensive solution for the electronics manufacturing industry.
Used Product
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200
200
The 200 is a versatile machine for use within the Electronics industries due to its small footprint and powerful air flow abilities.
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