Enjoying the Benefits of 3D Design

As Forbes continues to invest strongly in improved 3D design, both in terms of technology and staff expertise, it is timely to reflect on the advantages that this service offers over traditional 2D designs.

Storage tank and environmental technology fabrications are becoming increasingly complex. When fitting units into already complex sites, a combination of intricate pipework and space limitations can make for challenging conditions. This is where 3D planning comes into its own.

One of the key benefits of 3D design is clash detection. Being able to highlight potential clashes between objects and components while the unit is still ‘on the drawing board’ brings both time and cost benefits. Clash detection is particularly relevant in regard to complex pipework meaning issues can be identified well before fabrication or installation.

Finite element analysis is another important benefit. Our engineers are more easily able to apply any extremes of force, pressure and temperature to the model in order to visualise where the stresses and strains in each fabrication occur.

For more information on 3D design and turnkey installations please contact sales@forbesgroup.co.uk

Reflecting its on-going commitment to the development and training of its people, The Forbes Group is pleased to announce the recruitment of two new apprentice mechanical engineering designers in less than a year. This follows the success of a previous apprentice, whom after recently completing his apprenticeship is now working towards an HNC in Mechanical Engineering.

The Forbes apprenticeship scheme sees the trainees undertake a rigorous programme that includes on-the-job training in state-of-the-art, photo-realistic, 3D computer aided design (CAD) technology. The government recognised scheme also includes college day-release during which the apprentices can work towards a qualification in Mechanical Engineering.

Melvyn Jupp, Managing Director, said. “Investing in our apprentice designers, and increasing our in-house CAD capacity, will help ensure that The Forbes Group continues to remain at the cutting-edge of thermoplastic fabrication both now and in the future.”

In addition to the apprentices within the design office, Forbes also currently have a further 6 fabrication apprentices at their Kelso factories, in a training scheme being lead by EKGTA. The programme has been successfully run since 2006 at our Kelso works, with a possible further two apprentices to begin during the course of 2017.

Simpsons Malt protecting the environment with Forbes scrubber system.

For over 150 years Simpsons Malt has been manufacturing specialist high quality malted barley. The company supplies to a large number of whisky distilleries throughout Scotland, as well as to the brewing and food industries at large.

The company’s largest site, Tweed Valley Maltings in Berwick on Tweed, produces an impressive 236,000 tonnes of malted barley annually.

THE PROBLEM

Chitted malt (barley) is transferred into giant stainless steel Germinating and Kilning Vessels (GKVs). Humidified air is passed through the bed of malting barley to create the perfect conditions for the barley to germinate.

After 4-6 days, the wet air is replaced with heated air. The malt is dried (White Malt) and cured to required specifications, both in terms of moisture levels and colour, where it is used to produce some of the finest single malt whisky in the world.

Some of the white malt receives a second treatment process; peat is burnt in large burners and the hot, peat-infused smoky air is drawn through the white malt to give it a distinctive peaty characteristic. This malt is then used in the production of those peat flavoured malts synonymous with the western isles of Scotland.

Previously the peaty / malty scented air, together with fine particulate, was vented straight to atmosphere. Needing to increase production Simpsons recognised their responsibility concerning discharges of odours and dust laden air generated from their process, and that cleaning before discharge to the environment was required before extra processing commenced.

THE SOLUTION

Forbes supplied a complete wet Venturi scrubber system. The scrubber fans now draw the heated air from the kiln, through the malting chamber and into the scrubber. Inside the scrubbing vessel, the scrubbing liquor and peaty gas stream are brought together in turbulent contact, within the venturi throat, where the odour-causing particulates are forced into the atomised liquor.

The result; no more unacceptable odours discharged from the GKV and a more pleasant environment for employees and neighbours alike.

THE SYSTEM
The scrubber vessel was manufactured in polypropylene and reinforced with GRP. With a throughput air flow rate of 23000 m3/h, the Simpsons Malt scrubber system’s duty is 97% particulate removal at 5 micron.

Along with the scrubber system itself, Forbes supplied all vents, ducting and fans, access ladders and handrails which were manufactured at our own Kelso steelworks.

The scrubber has delivered the specified duty and has permitted continuous production of peaty flavoured malt and allowed us to meet the increased demand for this specialist ingredient regardless of weather conditions.

KEY INFORMATION

• Wet Venturi Scrubber System with Odour reduction

• Air flow rate of 23000 m3/h through the scrubber

• 97% particulate removal at 5 micron

• Supply of complete system, including ducting, fans, pumps and all steelwork

 

Forbes Technologies Ltd
Pinnaclehill Industrial Estate
Kelso
Roxburghshire
TD5 8DW

Forbes Technologies Ltd
New Road
Crimplesham
King’s Lynn
Norfolk
PE33 9AS

Quality Management System – ISO 9001:2008

Joined Forbes in 1987 and now heads up a team of design draughtsmen. An important link to our factory management team.

Joined Forbes in 2000 and supports the entire groups IT requirements, ensuring minimal downtime.

Covering the Southern half of the UK, Martyn brings over 30 years invaluable experience to this field sales role.