ACI's Blower Powered ‘Jetblack’ Helps Enhance Safety Practices For Hallmark Cards

Prior to the introduction of the blower powered units, JetBlacks from Air Control Industries (ACI) of Chard, staff were using compressed air to dislodge cardboard dust/fibres and decoration debris from inaccessible parts of machines so that it could be vacuumed-up. These operations were part of good housekeeping practices performed to ensure effective running of machinery and maintenance of product quality control.

Whilst compressed air delivers low air volumes air at high pressure the ACI JetBlack gives out high volumes of air at low pressure (less than 3psi). Unlike compressed air, it is quite safe to point the JetBlack at the body, even at exposed skin. If compressed air was used in this way, it would penetrate the skin and could cause serious health problems, so whilst Hallmark’s use of compressed air had very strict controls to ensure safety, there was still some element of residual risk.

“We wanted to eliminate the use of compressed air from machine cleaning duties for health and safety reasons”, said Dave Perrett, Setter Training Manager at Hallmark Cards. “We took an ACI JetBlack on trial and subsequently ordered 15 units, which says it all as regards our satisfaction with the product.”

Essentially the JetBlack comprises a blower power-pack (1400W) with a flexible hose and handheld air delivery nozzle attached. The JetBlacks supplied to Hallmark Cards are portable 110V units (230V is also available) and they all have longer than standard hoses (244cm) and power cables. The unit is just 7kg so it is easily moved between different work locations. Noise levels are below 78dB(A).

Wall-mounted JetBlacks are available for personnel de-dusting in specific locations.