UTM invests in MecWash MWX600 to double cleaning performance

MecWash Systems worked with training ammunition specialist, UTM (Ultimate Training Munitions) Ltd to increase productivity. Following significant investment in advanced manufacturing equipment at its factory in Suffolk, UTM identified an opportunity to optimise its production further by purchasing a new component cleaning system.

Having previously invested in two MecWash Midi systems that had delivered reliable performance over many years, UTM was confident in MecWash’s technology. With increasing production demands, the business required a more advanced solution capable of increasing throughput while introducing greater automation to the cleaning process.

Paul Jarratt, Sales Manager at MecWash, worked alongside UTM to identify the MecWash MWX600 as the ideal system for their requirements: “With the substantial increase in volume required, UTM required a more advanced system capable of increasing throughput with added automation. We decided the MWX600 was the best choice for the application. It’s the largest and most powerful of the component cleaning systems made here at MecWash and represents the ultimate flexible parts washing and degreasing system available for manufacturers today.”

John Talbot, Vice President of Operations at UTM, is pleased with the impact of the system: “Effective parts washing is a critical stage in our cleaning process. It’s essential the components are free from oil and grease so that downstream automated systems, such as bowl feeders, can operate smoothly without parts sticking or causing costly interruptions.

“Offering a substantial increase in capacity, the MWX600 features a chamber measuring 600 mm wide x 600 mm high x 800 mm deep,” he continues. “This size means we can process up to four baskets of shell cases per cycle, which is double the capacity of the previous Midi system.

“Since installation, the MecWash MWX600 has increased the volume of parts cleaned by 100%, immediately improving production flow and supporting higher output targets. To enhance productivity further, the MWX600 was designed with an automated load and unload solution, providing enhanced wash functionality and remote monitoring. The contaminated parts are now loaded into baskets on a conveyor in one room, before being automatically transferred through the washing and drying process and delivered ready for the next stage of manufacture.

“This not only improves our efficiency and consistency but also reduces manual handling and streamlines workflow between production areas. By upgrading to the MWX600, we’ve increased our cleaning capacity, improved process reliability and strengthened the efficiency of our operation.”

The last word goes to John Pattison, Managing Director of MecWash: “As with many of our customers, we have a long-standing relationship with UTM. We understand the application at UTM and have successfully supported the Midi over the course of its lifecycle. Paul and the team worked closely with UTM to develop the exact process to wash and dry the shell casings thoroughly.”

He adds: “We have formidable experience in building parts washing systems for the defence sector. I’m confident the upgrade to the MWX600 will help ensure that UTM is well positioned for its planned growth.”