Fotolec makes it shatterproof with Wittmann UK

Leading lighting specialist Fotolec has been investing in a new materials drying and handling systems supplied by Wellingborough-based Wittmann UK.

The Thetford-based manufacturer is well known for its production of GlassGuard shatter resistant safety lamps. It uses a specialist patented system of production, coating its bulbs and tubes with Teflon® plastic coating from Dupont.

The award-winning Wittmann Compact 100 polymer drying unit was chosen to make sure that the Fotolec polymers reach the coating process in optimum condition.

The new Wittmann dryer is playing its part in the production cycle by drying the stored polymer to the optimum temperatures. Even a small amount of moisture can jeopardise the processing conditions, and these need to be within strict tolerances for successful manufacture. The Wittmann Compact 100 is consequently fitted with valve technology that will prevent over drying – and overpaying for energy used.

After drying the resins are then delivered to the Fotolec production line via Wittmann’s S18 single phase hopper loader. Wittmann UK made sure to optimise Fotolec’s processing by trialing its materials on a standard machine off-site – and then, once satisfied, supplying the company with the Compact 100 for full production.

Wittmann UK managing director Barry Hill says that ‘Wittmann UK is delighted to be working with Fotolec in this way. Our materials handling division is going from strength to strength, drawing a lot of interest because of the global brand and support, and servicing all kinds of polymer processors – profile extruders, injection and blow moulders, compounders, film blowers and many other kinds of plastics processors.’

Richard Slaughter of Fotolec says that ‘we chose Wittmann UK for the performance of the equipment and the quality of the service. Like our customers, our business needs fault free and reliable performance, which we have found in the Compact 100.’

Fotolec’s specialist lighting products are used in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals and other applications with zero-tolerance for breakages or the possibility of that occurring.

Further details from Wittmann UK:Tel. 01933 275 777