Meech proves a sparkling success with Viracon

Meech International's static-elimination technology is assuring the quality in some of the world's most famous modern buildings.

Viracon, which sells high-performance architectural glass products, has installed intelligent technology from Meech's 900-Series static-elimination range on production lines at its site in Statesboro, Georgia, US.

This technology will effectively combat the high levels of static commonly encountered during glass production.

The manufacturing process involves extreme shifts in temperature that create a high static-charge, causing airborne debris to be attracted to the glass surface.

Once the glass has been contaminated by these fine particles, the application of laminate layers and other substrates between sheets can prove difficult and the clarity of the glass can potentially be compromised.

The situation is exacerbated by the plastic or rubber rollers on which the conveyor belts run.

Lee Quick, process engineer at Viracon, said: 'Our aim in installing static-elimination equipment was twofold; firstly it was important to decrease the levels of waste created due to static attraction in the laminate layer and secondly Viracon wanted to ensure the safety of employees by eliminating the risk of large static shocks.

Static levels in glass often exceed 125KV.

This can result in painful and potentially dangerous discharges.

Quick added: 'We found that Meech was able to supply the hand-held static meters needed to accurately measure static-electricity readings of up to 200KV, a common level in glass production.

'We were very impressed by the company's consultative approach.

'Not only did the Meech team demonstrate extensive knowledge of static elimination in all areas, but they made the working relationship comfortable and enjoyable.

Viracon bought Meech Pulsed DC Feedback systems, which are installed at strategic points above and below the production line.

The major advantage of this system is that as each pane of glass moves along the conveyor belt, a sensor adjusts the output levels of the ionising bars automatically.

The Pulsed DC system does not involve airflow so there is no risk of contaminants being blown towards the glass.

The installation has been so successful that static levels have dropped by as much as 96 per cent, to a minimal 2 - 5KV.

Quick said: 'Waste levels have been significantly reduced and the laminate interlayer is much easier to apply as the contaminant rate is minimal.

Viracon has supplied glass for some of the most impressive and famous buildings worldwide, including the world's tallest building, the Taipei 101 Tower, and the Chicago Trump Tower.

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