Evaluating the Stability of Tunnel Washer Systems: Examining the Drum and Anti-corrosion Technology

In the previous article, we discussed how to evaluate the stability of tunnel washers by examining their structural components. In this article, we will delve deeper into the importance of drum material, welding technology, and anti-corrosion techniques in ensuring the longevity and reliability of tunnel washer systems.

Drum Material and Welding Technology:?The Importance of Drum Material

The drum is a critical component of any tunnel washer. It is subjected to continuous stress and high temperatures, making the material and construction quality crucial. The CLM tunnel washer features a drum made of 4 mm-thick 304 stainless steel. This material is chosen for its excellent resistance to corrosion and high tensile strength, which are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the drum over prolonged use.?

In comparison, many other brands use thinner drums made of 2.7 mm–3 mm thick stainless steel. While these may be sufficient for lighter loads, they are not ideal for the heavy-duty demands of industrial laundry operations. When a tunnel washer operates at full capacity, the total weight can exceed 10 tons. Under such conditions, a thinner drum is more susceptible to deformation and, in extreme cases, cracking.

Advanced Welding Technology

The welding process also plays a significant role in the drum's durability. CLM uses advanced welding techniques on both the inner and outer surfaces of the drum, ensuring a robust and uniform structure. This dual-surface welding provides additional strength and reduces the likelihood of weak points that could lead to structural failure.

Some brands often rely on simpler welding methods, which may not offer the same level of reliability. In industrial settings where the machine is expected to operate continuously, any compromise in welding quality can lead to frequent maintenance issues and downtime.

Drum Straightness and Precision Engineering: Maintaining Drum Straightness

The straightness of the drum is another crucial factor in ensuring the machine's stability. The CLM 60kg 16-chamber tunnel washer boasts a drum length of 14 meters and a diameter of approximately 1.8 meters. Given these dimensions, maintaining concentricity between the inner and outer drums under full load is essential to preventing operational imbalances.

Precision Engineering with Robotic Technology

To achieve the necessary precision, CLM employs robotic welding technology. This method ensures consistent and high-quality welds that are free from human error. After welding, the drum undergoes further machining with CNC lathes. This process helps control the run-out error within 0.05 mm–0.1 mm, ensuring the drum remains perfectly straight. Such precision is crucial for preventing excessive wear and tear on the drum and other mechanical components.

Anti-corrosion Technology: The Challenge of Corrosion

Laundry factories often operate in environments characterized by high temperatures and humidity. The tunnel washer is continuously exposed to water and various detergents, which can accelerate the corrosion process. If not adequately protected, the main frame and other metal components can quickly deteriorate, leading to significant maintenance costs and reduced machine lifespan.

Hot-dip Galvanizing for Longevity

To combat corrosion, the CLM tunnel washer's main frame is treated with a hot-dip galvanizing process. This method involves coating the metal with a layer of zinc, which provides a durable and long-lasting barrier against rust, guaranteeing that the?machines will remain rust-free for up to 50 years, a testament to the effectiveness of CLM anti-corrosion measures.

Comparing Anti-corrosion Methods

In contrast, many other brands use less effective anti-corrosion techniques, such as spray painting or powder coating. While these methods offer some level of protection, they are not as durable as hot-dip galvanizing. Over time, the paint or powder coating can chip away, exposing the metal to the elements and leading to rust formation within a year or two.

Conclusion

Ensuring the stability of tunnel washer systems requires a comprehensive approach that includes selecting high-quality materials, employing advanced construction techniques, and implementing effective anti-corrosion measures. By focusing on these aspects, CLM tunnel washers deliver reliable performance and longevity, making them an excellent choice for industrial laundry operations.

Stay tuned for our next article, where we will continue to explore other critical factors to consider when assessing tunnel washers.