Our Sites

RathGibson installs greencleaning system in Clarksville facility

RathGibson, a manufacturer of welded, welded and drawn, and seamless stainless steel, nickel, and titanium tubing, has completed a large capital project in its Clarksville, Ark., facility. The equipment, which will be used for in-process cleaning of seamless tubing, was chosen for its economic and environmental benefits.

The manufacture of seamless stainless tubing involves significant lubrication during the forming process. To remove the lubrication after the tube has been formed, conventional degreasing or cleaning systems utilize a blanket of cool air as a means to prevent solvent emissions. This type of open system can result in VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions.

In contrast to industry-standard systems, RathGibson has installed a closed cleaning system that utilizes vacuum technology to prevent solvent release into the atmosphere. In addition to the reduction of emissions, the closed system also cleans or recovers the solvent to increase its cleaning and drying properties.

"At a cost of $1.7 million, this degreaser is one of the world's largest systems of its kind," said Dave O'Donnell, Director, Process and Product Development. "We project that the system will decrease solvent emissions by a factor of 10. Superior cleaning performance and superior environmental benefits reflect our commitment to manufacturing efficiency and corporate responsibility."

RathGibson is a worldwide manufacturer of highly engineered stainless steel, nickel, and titanium tubing for diverse industries such as chemical, petrochemical, power generation, energy –oil and gas, food, beverage, pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, medical, biotechnology, and general commercial.