 |
The model WC-ST Front Load Commercial Grade Parts Washer is
the ideal washer for any automotive repair shop. The 1,000 lb capacity
turntable is strong enough for any size auto or light truck engine.
The cut-away sides under the door allow you to wheel your engine
crane right over the table for easy loading and unloading. 18 high
pressure spray jets quickly clean the greasiest engine components
whether they are on the turntable, hanging from the parts tree or
in the standard parts basket. The 60 minute timer means the washer
can be left unsupervised so your mechanic can go on to the next
job while the washer is running. When he gets back the parts are
clean and dry within seconds of unloading. The parts washer requires
no harmful solvents using only hot water and biodegradable detergents
for an environmentally safe operation. The standard stainless steel
skimming disc extends the life of you cleaning solution.
|
Aqueous Parts Washers: Case Study
Corvette Service Company provides automotive services and is located in Carpinteria, CA. Automotive services include repair and restoration for Corvettes, as well as warranty work and special projects.
During the repair and restoration process, cleaning of automotive parts is necessary. Corvette Service Company used to clean parts with a mineral spirits parts washer. The mineral spirits washer required an annual service fee of $672. This service fee included chemical and disposal costs.
With the help of the Institute for Research and Technical Assistance, Corvette Service Company tested numerous cleaners, such as enzyme cleaners in a sink-on-a-drum configuration and an ultrasonic cleaning unit, over a period of several months.
After careful consideration, Corvette Service Company purchased a front-loader spray cabinet with filtration and skimming capabilities for $4,825, or $965 per year assuming a five-year equipment life. The major benefit from the spray cabinet is labor savings. The spray cabinet is automated and uses a water-propelled spray bar that spins around a stationary parts bucket.
Annual labor costs associated with the spray cabinet ($244) are substantially lower than the labor costs associated with the mineral spirits washer ($2,438).
The annual cost of chemical replacement and make-up for the spray cabinet system is approximately $225 for three 40-pound pails of cleaner. Annual disposal costs are estimated at $1,200, based on four changeouts per year.
The spray cabinet requires more electricity and averages $480 per year in electrical costs. The mineral spirits cleaner averaged $60 per year in electrical costs.
The overall annual costs for the spray cabinet are $3,114, which are slightly lower than the total annual costs for the mineral spirits unit ($3,170).
Tim Morris and Katy Wolf
|