H+H partnered with Atlantic Pumps, an abrasive equipment manufacturer and supplier, to improve the pump systems at its Pollington plant.
In response to a recent increase in production demand, H+H conducted an appraisal of its manufacturing process to identify potential bottlenecks in production. This revealed an opportunity to improve the reliability of the pump system.
In the manufacture of aircrete, recycled pulverised fuel ash (PFA) is added to a slurry with lime, cement, sand, and aluminium powder. As many of these ingredients are highly abrasive, a robust and reliable pump system is required to transport the mix around the plant.
H+H worked closely with Atlantic Pumps on the design and selection of the new pump system. The upgrade has enhanced the reliability and efficiency of the pumps, and made them easier to maintain.
The initiative has resulted in a substantial resource saving, including eradicating the need for water. The original pump system required a significant amount of water to operate, using it as a coolant, sealant, and lubricant.
Operation of the pumps now also requires less energy usage, enabling the Pollington plant to scale up its production capacity more sustainably.
H+H operators underwent practical onsite training for using and maintaining the pumps. In combination with the new system and ongoing technical support from Atlantic Pumps this has allowed H+H to carry out maintenance repair tasks three times faster than before.
A key participant in the upgrade was Alex Whinfrey-Gibson, a Level 6 Engineering Degree Apprentice, working at the Pollington Plant. Last year, Alex completed his Bachelor of Engineering Maintenance degree from The University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) while working at H+H.
Both H+H and Atlantic Pumps are supportive participants of the AMRC apprentice training scheme. The AMRC develops the next generation of engineers through apprenticeships, strengthening engineering skills and sharing best practices across industrial and engineering fields.
H+H is continually evaluating how it can improve its operations and sustainability. To learn more about its sustainability goals, visit the roadmap to net-zero carbon aircrete.