VACUUM CLEANERS UPDATE PROGRAMME FOR RAF

Clyde Materials Handling is currently working on a service contract for the Royal Air Force (RAF) to upgrade its fleet of Sturtevant vacuum cleaners. The contract will see Clyde upgrade approximately 550 machines over the next few years.

Explains John Clarkson, vacuum cleaning product manager at Clyde Materials Handling: "The RAF approached us with a view to upgrading or replacing existing machines some of which were 25 years old. These original machines need upgrading to HEPA (high efficiency particulate arrestor) standard so they can handle toxic materials."

"The RAF uses two different types of machine - the Panther and the Zephyr. There are five versions of the Panther so rather than replacing these machines we decided to overhaul and modify them to produce just one version of the Panther. The result is a flameproof, three-phase, 415volt, heavy duty vacuum cleaner. By modifying machines already in use, we are able to rationalise spare parts for the machines thus providing a cost saving benefit for the RAF."

"Similarly, we are modifying eight versions of the Zephyr to create three new models - a 115volt, 400Hz version with a yellow canister for easy identification for specific use on board aircraft and two 240volt versions, one standard version (orange canister) and one flameproof (red canister), heavy duty version for use in hazardous areas."

The vacuum cleaners used by the RAF are employed in a number of applications and environments including general floor cleaning, workshops, the interior of aircraft and inside the cockpits of fighter planes and helicopters.

The highly experienced team of technicians and engineers at Clyde are also updating the AP manuals for all the machines they are servicing as well as providing a range of technical support for RAF personnel.

Concludes John: "Our main aim is to upgrade all the machines to HEPA standard but, at the same time, reduce spares inventory and to extend the life of the vacuum cleaners by another 15 years thus maximising their efficiency in order that they may complete up to 40 years service with the RAF."

For more information on centralised or mobile Sturtevant vacuum cleaner sales and service,
please contact John Clarkson, Tel: 01302 554404 or e-mail: jclarkson@clydematerials.co.uk