Background
The company needed a product that could be safely and easily applied while also improving its operational and cost efficiencies.
The plant sought an alternative method to its existing reliance on diluted hydrochloric acid and urea hydrochloric, as these methods raised safety concerns and failure to deliver consistent, high performing results.
The current product was also not a financially sustainable option as it required a double application before limited results were even being detected.
Vital Chemical identified the need for a proven solution that would improve performance, reduce costs and product use, whilst safeguarding the company’s employees and supporting operational efficiencies.
Challenge
The concrete manufacturer was experiencing continued cement build-up and rust spots on its earthmoving machinery that were not effectively removed by the current cleaning chemicals.
The solution needed to be a product that could address the build up of Calcium Oxide while also eliminating the need to mix chemicals on site.
This build-up was obscuring the surfaces of earthmoving machinery, diminishing the visibility of the company’s branding and reducing the presentation value of its fleet.
This not only affected the professional appearance of equipment but also limited the effectiveness of machinery as a visible corporate asset.
The brief required that several critical priorities were addressed, including a reduction in downtime, improving safety measures for staff, and the long-term protection of the company’s machinery.
Solution
Vital Chemical recommended the use of Vital Flo-Chem Thick with Rust Guard, a low vapour emission, viscous, acid-based concrete removal product designed to remove concrete residue and build-up whilst providing anti-corrosive protection to metal surfaces.
Supplied in a 1,000 litre Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) fitted with a three-point isolation hose at the outlet valve, the solution provided a safe and efficient dispensing system that eliminated the need for manual mixing on site.
The delivery of effective cleaning results whilst reducing the total volume of chemicals required for each application made the entire process both cost effective and sustainable from both an operational and environmental perspective.
Vital Flo-Chem Thick with Rust Guard is specially formulated for application across a range of equipment, including external agitator barrels, cement mixers, front end loaders, pumping equipment, shotcrete and pneumatic tankers (used for fly ash).
This solution also provided an environmentally sound and cost-effective alternative to other products in the market, including the traditional hydrochloric acid method previously used at the plant, and other outdated low pH cleaning chemical options.
Its low acid concentrate and gel-like consistency enabled the application of Vital Flo-Chem Thick with Rust Guard to adhere to surfaces, reducing run-off and splashing during cleaning.
These key improved benefits minimised waste and significantly lowered the risk of exposure for personnel onsite.
To support the adoption of a new product, and provide a seamless transition, a member of Vital Chemical’s team of technical experts provided onsite training, product theory and practical application demonstrations to ensure all site personnel were confident in applying the solution safety and effectively.
Result
The introduction of Vital Flo-Chem Thick with Rust Guard has already demonstrated significant cost savings while improving worker safety.
The plant’s personnel reported noticeably reduced vapour emissions during product applications, lowering their exposure risks while its anti-corrosive properties have provided an added layer of protection for the earthmoving equipment.
The concrete plant has reported a significant improvement in the cleanliness of its equipment and commended the ease of application in comparison to previous chemicals used
Infrastructure Sustainability Council
Vital Flo-Chem Thick with Rust Guard is part of Vital Chemical’s growing portfolio of ISupply listed products, supporting clients in achieving IS ratings through the delivery of proven innovations and sustainable outcomes.