MACHINERY CLEANING
Smurfit Kappa - South Gloucestershire, England, BS37 5AP
Client's Challenge
Smurfit Kappa were preparing for the installation of a major production machine at their Yate facility in South Gloucestershire.
The equipment was exceptionally large - approximately the length of a football pitch - and delivered in multiple sections. As the machinery was second-hand and sourced from different locations, the client required confidence that every section was clean, inspected, and suitable for installation before entering their live production environment.
The priority was to remove transport grime, dust, debris, and contamination risks without damaging sensitive components, ensuring the machine could be commissioned efficiently and placed into production without unnecessary delays.
Assessment & Planning
APT ICC worked closely with Smurfit Kappa to assess:
• The condition of each machine section following storage and transport
• Likely contamination levels associated with second-hand equipment
• The safest cleaning approach to protect tolerances and mechanical components
• A phased cleaning programme aligned with delivery and installation sequencing
A sectional cleaning plan was agreed, allowing installation works to continue without interruption while cleaning was completed in parallel.
Methodology
APT ICC delivered the works using a structured, phased machinery cleaning methodology:
1. Segmented cleaning programme Large machine sections were broken into manageable stages to allow cleaning, inspection, and release in sequence.
2. Controlled machinery cleaning
Professional cleaning equipment and safe cleaning practices were used to remove contamination while protecting sensitive components.
3. Incremental release for installation
Cleaned sections were cleared progressively, supporting continuous installation activity without delays.
4. Client coordination
Works were scheduled around the installation timeline to ensure cleaning supported commissioning and production start-up.
This approach ensured all equipment was production-ready prior to installation.
Site Access & Logistics
Equipment
• Professional industrial cleaning equipment suitable for machinery cleaning
• Hand cleaning and detailing tools for controlled surface preparation
Chemicals
• Ultramax 2020 - heavy-duty industrial degreaser
• UltraClean MB - multi-purpose cleaner and sanitiser
All products used were APT Commercial Chemicals formulations, selected to remove contamination effectively without aggressive or damaging chemical processes.
The Results
• Machine sections cleaned and prepared prior to installation
• Transport grime, dust, and debris removed safely
• Inspection readiness achieved before delivery to site
• On-site installation delays reduced
• Faster commissioning and production start-up achieved
The structured pre-installation cleaning programme supported operational continuity and ensured the machinery entered production in a clean, controlled condition.
