This fully automated system is designed for high production precision cleaning, precision rinsing, overflow rinsing, and drying of medical tubing in batch quantities. It rapidly processes tube bundles of various lengths and IDs vertically loaded into circular basket (see below). It is a continuous feed system that simultaneously processes and transfers multiple baskets.
The photo below is of the front of the machine showing stainless steel automation guard and RamNet operators control pedestal (to the left).
DYNAMIC FLOW COMBINATION – the RAMCO DIFFERENCE
The heart of the system is the adroit use of process elevators within each chamber. The elevators are used to transport baskets into and out of each chamber. However, the most important function of each elevator is to position and gently move the tubes up an down during the process. It is this function that allows RAMCO systems to achieve superior results in washing, rinsing and drying. We call it Dynamic Flow Combination. The effects of Dynamic Flow Combination are better coverage of component surfaces, more consistent results, and accelerated processing times.
AUTOMATION
Baskets are positioned between two sensors on a loading conveyor section. The operator simply presses a start button on the conveniently located control panel and the system takes over from there. It automatically indexes, precision washes, precision rinses and completely dries each basket of tubes. The transfer system uses multiple arms to allow for simultaneous indexing of multiple baskets. The consistency delivered by the automation enhances part quality and reduces failures down the assembly/test line. The steps are PLC controlled with dual phases within the precision washing and rinsing stages sequencing powerful ultrasonics with turbo/agitation.
PROCESS – TURBO/AGITATION WASHING WITH ULTRASONICS
The unique RAMCO ultrasonic system cascades powerful sweep frequency (between 38 to 42 kHz)ultrasonics with our standard turbo/filter/agitation washing. Using mechanical agitation washing to remove gross contamination and ultrasonic cleaning to remove finer and/or more resistive deposits is a very effective processing routine.
TURBO/AGITATION WASHING
Agitation washing is enhanced when used in conjunction with a TurboFilter System. The Turbo/agitation phase is produced using a high volume all stainless steel pump, closed looped manifolds, and multiple injectors to direct an even flow of turbulent solution through the tubes. The solution is filtered and the flow is adjustable. Turbo/agitation is uses to removes gross contaminants and oil.
RAMCO turbo systems are proven to accelerate processing time in washing and/or rinsing.
ULTRASONICS
Following precision washing the parts are automatically transferred to the precision rinse stage. The rinse process also includes alternating cycles of agitation with turbulation and powerful ultrasonics. Following precision rinsing the parts are automatically transferred to the final overflowing DI rinse stage. Following rinsing the parts are transferred to a very effective the hot air knife dryer.
PROCESS CONTROL
The machine is built with RamNet microprocessing system. This pattern is repeated. Following rinsing the parts are transferred to the hot air knife dryer