Yorkshire based Romica Engineering Limited (REL) has joined forces with specialist designers Epsilon Engineering Ltd to deliver a new stacking system for plasterboard manufacturer Knauf UK Ltd.
Romica owner and managing director Bob Turner said the job showcases how REL can transfer its factory engineering facilities as well as its knowledge to work across engineering sectors, beyond maritime, its main sector to date.
He said Beverley-based REL received Epsilon’s order in January before a fast turnaround to allow testing in April ahead of full installation in May at Knauf’s manufacturing facility in Immingham.
“This brief involved replacing an existing material handling system on Knauf’s site responsible for stacking and discharging sheets of plasterboards,” he said. “The system is integral to the overall operation and improves product handling, process flow and enables enhancements in operator interaction and machinery ergonomics. The construction therefore needed to be reliable, efficient and durable”.
Epsilon had previously been involved with the design of similar systems for Knauf’s other facility in Kent so we had a firm idea of the customer requirements.
“REL was also able to provide additional benefits from a plant machinery care and maintenance standpoint. The system has been manufactured with the highest-quality welding possible along with protective covers and bellows over devices and exposed mechanisms to guard against harsh operating environments, including plasterboard dust ingress. It further benefits from high-quality pneumatic components for the actuation process. This versatile piece of machinery is also capable of handling different lengths and widths of plasterboard. We have developed a strong collaborative relationship with Epsilon over the years. When they approached us with outline plans to develop a performance enhancing material handling system we felt very confident we could bring their vision to life.”
Kent-based Epsilon Engineering managing director Graeme Leno said: “We selected Romica as a partner on this project because it was a sizeable job in terms of the machine frames and construction process. In order to do the job efficiently we needed a partner with the right workshop equipment including large overhead cranes and a finishing facility for shot-blasting and painting, as well as a skilled workforce. The other benefit with REL is the fact it’s a UK company which helped us de-risk the operation. We work with many overseas manufacturers however it always takes more time to get the lines of communication in place, to fully understand what we require from a design element. From a financial position, it is also more favourable to deal with the manufacturing process in sterling”.
“Since the late 1980s our work has involved collaboration with many engineering supply companies. We use a network of companies to help us build, test and install machinery. These include frame and structure elements from sheet metal and fabrication shops, and electrical control and distribution panels from high-quality assured electrical contractors. The drive from our own customers to deliver part or full automation projects within tight budgets has focused us to work with highly competent partners such as Romica. The quality of construction has been excellent”.
This latest contract forms part of Romica’s campaign to diversify into new areas of engineering. Romica’s transferable skills and services, include project management, consultation, product design, manufacture, build to print, testing, inspection, document control and full certification. Romica further offers comprehensive global after sales support, the refurbishment and modification of existing equipment and systems as well as full electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic support. Product types include, complete lifting and handling systems, A-frames, handling booms, conveyor systems, davit cranes, jacking systems, power transmissions, structural steelwork, winches and hoists.
Romica has a 7,000m² custom-built manufacturing facility, which includes four overhead cranes with 12.5 tonnes lifting capacity with an 8mtr clearance below the hook, machine tools, CNC, milling, boring, fusion welding equipment, we have independent, indoor, shot blasting and paint booth facilities, which can accommodate pieces up to 12m in length, weighing to 12.5 tonnes.
Romica provides a 24/7 global network support. It has facilities and contacts in UK, Romania, Turkey, China, South Korea, Australia, and USA.
For more information visit: www.romica.co.uk Phone: (+44) 148 285 3884 Email: robert.turner@romica.co.uk