The leading manufacturer of architectural aluminum systems in the UK has made a pre-emptive choice to move away from using chrome in its production and pre-treatment processes that have been recognised at the highest level. Kawneer is part of the Arconic group which has used chrome as an anti-corrosion coating that occurs prior to powder coating for the last 25 years. However, it has been decided that this practice needed reviewing after the European Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals ban that will come in to force in September this year.
The review has led to a six figure investment which will create improved processes of production which will include two new de-mineralisation units as well as stainless steel lined tanks and laboratory equipment as well as a dedicated storage area for the test panels and a customer viewing platform. The changes were suggested as part of the earlier than scheduled Interpon D approved applicator audit for 2017. The auditor suggested that the new levels of control alongside an improved level of monitoring, analysis, corrective action and communication should then boost Kawneer in order to become the highest current performance level within the pre-treatment and process control industry.
Staff will need to be involved at all levels in order to create an increased level of awareness as well as developing responsibility and ownership for the quality of improvement. Through the improved staff responsibility and upgraded laboratory and equipment will enhance the levels of quality control further in order to be competitive in a chrome-free market. Kawneer looked at several different chrome-free solutions to find the best one for their purposes in order to give the highest quality.
Kawneer are changing to chrome-free practices in an attempt to become the best pre-treatment company in the country. The auditorâs high ranking of Kawneerâs work supports this focus as well as improving customer confidence in their processes.
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