Method for cleaning 210 and 216.5 L steel barrels from adhesive residue.

Desired outcome

One of the departments of our manufacturing company is a barrel washing line. We are looking for a solution for adhesive removal from steel barrels on our reconditioning line. Historically, labels fell off barrels during storage and transport, so a stronger adhesive was used to prevent this. Currently, there is an issue with removing the adhesive on the reconditioning line. We have an older line, purchased second-hand, which required us to disconnect the roller conveyor and hire additional workers to remove the adhesive by grinding it off manually with a handheld grinder.

Initial Problem Description

On our 210 and 216.5-liter steel barrel reconditioning line, we had to disconnect the automated washing process due to adhesive residue left from labels. The labels themselves wouldn’t pose a major problem, as they can be scraped off at the quality control station (checking for barrel integrity and inner rust). The issue arises during the barrel shot blasting process, where the shot adheres to the adhesive and is subsequently painted over in the next reconditioning step. This result is unacceptable, as shot-adhered barrels are considered scrap.

We need a solution that doesn’t cause additional emissions of volatile compounds or CO₂ since, as a recycling company, we must carefully control emissions released into the atmosphere.

We are looking for a simple solution to automate the process, eliminating monotonous and unpleasant tasks for employees. Should any emissions be generated, they must be captured in appropriate filters.

The barrels are painted externally in this process, while the interior coating applied by the manufacturer must remain intact.

Context

We are a medium-sized company engaged in processing HDPE material for cable and fiber optic ducts, producing barrels, and reconditioning IBC containers, plastic barrels, and steel barrels. We would like to implement the proposed cleaning method in our production facility, aligning with Industry 4.0 principles and leveraging robotic solutions. Initially, however, we need to gain control over the adhesive removal process.

Connection to cross-cutting areas

The solution we seek involves identifying a suitable cleaning method. Without suggesting specific methods, we expect teams to propose one. The process should be fast (ideal cycle time: one barrel/45 seconds) and adaptable for an Industry 4.0 automated or robotic setup.

Input

We do not want to suggest specific solutions, as we believe that creativity should drive the process. Instead, we encourage innovative thinking and original ideas that can address the challenge in unexpected ways. Our goal is to foster an environment where inventive solutions can naturally emerge.

Expectations

We seek a creative, interdisciplinary team that brings together diverse expertise to approach the problem from multiple angles. The ideal team should be capable of thoroughly analyzing the issue, considering all relevant factors, and developing a comprehensive solution to effectively address the task at hand.

Desired Team Profile

We seek a creative, interdisciplinary team that brings together diverse expertise to approach the problem from multiple angles. The ideal team should be capable of thoroughly analyzing the issue, considering all relevant factors, and developing a comprehensive solution to effectively address the task at hand.

Additional Information

Labels may appear in various locations on the barrels, such as the sides or the top end, but never on the bottom end, as this area is generally impractical for display. The most innovative and promising labeling solutions will first be tested on simpler models or individual barrels to evaluate their functionality and design before being applied to more complex or large-scale production.

Related Keywords

• Physical Sciences and Exact Sciences
• Waste Management
• Recycling, Recovery
• Industrial Products
• Chemicals and Materials
• Industrial Equipment and Machinery
• Pollution and Recycling Related
• Manufacturing