When Tom Howley, manufacturer of luxury kitchens, had to replace older machinery with newer, they contacted Nordfab’s distributor, Extractly Ltd for help. Extractly Ltd used Nordfab ducting for this project where they had to reconfigure the ductwork arrangement and integrate Ecogate equipment. The results were impressive; reduced noise impact and a much improved energy-efficient ducting system.

Challenge: reorganisation of machinery to optimise workflow

There were three key areas that needed consideration at Tom Howley’s facility in Derbyshire UK; the requirement for increased extraction capacity; the need to expand the energy-saving Ecogate system; and, since the only sensible option was to install a new fan and filter unit outside the building, to protect neighbouring residential properties from excessive noise pollution.

Solution: lower noise levels and huge energy and cost savings

In summer 2021, in order to optimise workflow, a reorganisation of machinery was being undertaken at Tom Howley, and Extractly Ltd were contracted to reconfigure the ductwork arrangement and integrated Ecogate equipment which was controlling extraction to an existing, externally-sited, filter unit which continues to serve the finishing side of the factory. Since the extraction system only operates when machines are running, the total extraction volume requirement is significantly reduced, creating potential for huge energy and cost savings, as well as lower noise levels both at the fan, and inside the factory.

Advantages of using Nordfab ducting

This is a prime example where Extractly’s Ecogate technology and Nordfab’s Quick-Fit ducting have been installed to provide a cost-effective and energy efficient extract system for wood waste extraction. Nordfab Quick-Fit ducting holds several advantages over its competitors, such as spiral duct:

1. Smoother internal bore - reduces build-up of material and blockages.
2. Quick & easy installation - downtime is reduced by 45% when compared to standard installations.
3. Stronger and more robust duct - minimum 0,7 mm gauge steel.
4. Investigating & cleaning is extremely easy as the ducting can simply be unclipped. No need for access doors!
5. Modifications to the system layout can be made quickly.
6. It can be used again & again - if your business needs change, if you have to redesign your production process, or if you are moving, clipped ducting can be quickly dismantled and reassembled.