Investigation into Steel Strip Cleaning Methods

The current strip cleaning method in use by Atkore poses significant economic, environmental, and ethical problems. A series of four, caustic filled tanks worked to remove oil and debris from a continuous feed of steel strip. This project requires investigation and preliminary testing for alternative strip cleaning methods.

This project presents initial research findings for popular strip cleaning alternatives as well as preliminary experimental findings and wide scale implementation plans.

Included in the implementation plan for the alternative method that was found to be “best” for the company, were all the other necessary components and equipment to ensure safe and effective operation. The strip cleaning process is one part of a larger, continuous manufacturing process and compatibility with the rest of the process was analyzed and approved for the recommended method.