Cleaning Process

fass-reinigungHere we present a detailed description of the various cleaning steps for drums and containers so you can get a clear picture of the industrial packaging cleaning process. Both topics can be accessed via the menu items under the images.

 

 

 

Drum cleaning steps

1. Initial inspection
Off-loading from tarpaulin-covered swap bodies fitted with steel trays takes place directly at the production line. On initial inspection all drums delivered to the plant are checked for residues and processing capability in terms of packaging dimensions and previous content. If drums fail to comply with the conditions agreed with the returner, deliveries may be rejected and returned to the sender. Drums found to be fit for processing are subjected to a fully automated reconditioning process.
2. De-denting
Steel drums are brought back into their original shape by an automatic machine. The preparation of the seams (the connections between drum body and ends) is particularly crucial for leak tightness. Deformations in the body and ends are pressed out by applying air pressure to the rotating drum which is fixed on steel rollers.
3. Automatic cleaning and intermediate inspection
Interior and exterior cleaning of the corrugated tight-head drums takes place on a fully automatic conveyor system. The 15-stage interior cleaning process involves the use of several different media and encompasses high-pressure cleaning with rotating jets, rinsing and drying. Subsequently each individual drum is inspected to determine whether it will have to be de-rusted or passed on for further processing.
4. Conversion to open-head drum or recycling
Corrugated tight-head drums which are found to be not completely clean or entirely rust-free are converted to corrugated open-head drums by a fully automated process. Fass-Braun GmbH is licensed by the German Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) to produce corrugated open-head drums with authorisation for the transport of dangerous goods which comply with all the requirements of UN packaging groups I, II and III for solids.
5. Removal of labels and paint
Once all labels have been removed by steel brushes in a fully automated machine the drums are stripped of paint in a blasting system. Blasting is accomplished in such a way that the quality of the drums is not impaired.
6. Leakproofness testing
In accordance with ADR regulations on packaging approved for the carriage of dangerous goods, every drum designated to carry liquids is tested for leakproofness. To do so the cleaned and sealed drum is fully immersed in a water bath heated to approx. 90° C. Due to internal overpressure, even minor leakages can be instantly identified by rising air bubbles. Leaky drums are eliminated as rejects and passed on for recycling.
7. Painting
Drums that have passed the leakproofness test are then fed into the automated painting and drying system. Here the exterior of the drum is painted according to the wishes of the customer in one or more colours. Corrugated open-head drums can also be painted on the inside. Subsequently you have the additional option of having your company logo screen-printed onto the drums.
8. Certified quality – signed and sealed
Prior to loading for shipment each drum is subject to a final inspection and fitted with the requested accessories. Drums that successfully pass the final inspection are signed FBH – Fass-Braun Hagen – three letters that guarantee quality and safety.

Container cleaning steps

1. Initial inspection and suction cleaning
The initial inspection is carried out directly at the production line during off-loading. Containers that pass inspection are completely emptied using a suction lance.
2. Pre- and main cleaning
The pre- and main cleaning of the inside of the container is carried out in two separate closed cabins using rotating high-pressure jets.
3. External cleaning and removal of labels
After all labels and inscriptions have been removed the external surface of the container is cleaned automatically inside a closed cabin.
4. Drying with cooling zone
The containers are dried internally and externally, first with warm air and then with cold air.
5. Valve check
After the outlet has been checked the outlet fittings and other accessories are mounted according to the wishes of the customer.
6. Leakproofness testing and final inspection
All cleaned and dried containers are tested for leakproofness and are subjected to visual and functional testing during final inspection.
7. Certified quality – signed and sealed
Containers that successfully pass the final inspection are marked accordingly. The return service ticket guarantees nationwide recovery of delivered containers.