World of Cans
The Washer and the Dry Off Oven
In this video, we're going to talk about the washer and the dry off oven, two critical components in the can manufacturing process.
Overview of the Washer
The washer and dry off oven are large, easily noticeable machines in the can plant. When inspecting the back of the washer, you will see multiple tanks and piping responsible for heating. Ducts also extend from the top of the dry off oven. Each can line has only one washer and dry off oven, as they are capable of processing a significant number of cans.
After cans leave the body maker and the trimmer, they typically have residual body maker coolant and lubrication on their surfaces. The washer's primary purpose is to remove this lubrication and coolant. Cans approach the washer from either the upper level or from the body maker trench located underground.
Prior to entering the washer, cans will accumulate to ensure a dense can pack as they move through the system.
After cans leave the body maker and the trimmer, they typically have residual body maker coolant and lubrication on their surfaces. The washer's primary purpose is to remove this lubrication and coolant. Cans approach the washer from either the upper level or from the body maker trench located underground.
Prior to entering the washer, cans will accumulate to ensure a dense can pack as they move through the system.
Internal Processes of the Washer
Inside the washer, there are four main processes:
Pre-Rinse Station:
Water is used to remove lubrication and coolant from the can's surface.
Chemical Washing:
This process etches the can's surface, preparing it for future coatings on both the inside and outside.
Final Rinse:
Deionized (DI) water is used to ensure that the can's surface is free from mineral spots, which could affect subsequent coatings.
Mobility Enhancer Application:
This ensures that cans move smoothly through the rest of the conveyance system.
Each stage within the washer features spray bars that spray from both the top and bottom, ensuring thorough cleaning of both the inside and outside of the cans. At the end of each stage, blow-off stations remove residual water from the dome of the can to prevent contamination in the next stage.
Each stage within the washer features spray bars that spray from both the top and bottom, ensuring thorough cleaning of both the inside and outside of the cans. At the end of each stage, blow-off stations remove residual water from the dome of the can to prevent contamination in the next stage.
Transition to the Dry Off Oven
At the end of the washer, cans pass through a vacuum transfer system, which prevents downed cans from continuing on to the dry off oven.
Inside the dry off oven, gas-powered blowers circulate hot air to dry the surface of the cans.
Once the cans leave the dry off oven, they are referred to as "bright cans" due to their clean, shiny surfaces. These cans are now ready to receive decoration on the outside and internal coating on the inside.
Inside the dry off oven, gas-powered blowers circulate hot air to dry the surface of the cans.
Once the cans leave the dry off oven, they are referred to as "bright cans" due to their clean, shiny surfaces. These cans are now ready to receive decoration on the outside and internal coating on the inside.
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