Utexbel Modernizes 20-Year Old Monforts Thermex

Germany-based A. Monforts Textilmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG reports that Belgium-based Utexbel — a
fully-integrated yarn and fabric manufacturer with bleaching, mercerizing, dyeing and finishing
operations — has implemented a turnkey conversion on a Monforts Thermex first installed at its
facility in 1989. During the modernization, which occurred during a five-week machine shutdown, 15
alternating current inverters were installed — one on each motor — to replace outdated direct
current drives. Ventilator motors were replaced, a new programmable logic controller system was
installed, and the unit’s underground cables were moved to above ground to reduce corrosion
problems caused by chemical seepage. All of the work was completed by Monforts’ service department
to a predetermined schedule for a fixed price.

Monforts reports the upgrade has helped the company realize 15-percent energy savings. The
unit now consumes less gas when it is idle because the variable speed inverters turn off power to
the various motors.

“In addition, we have also eliminated the frequent electronic failures of the past resulting
in reduced maintenance and service call outs,” said Jan Morel, engineering and maintenance manager,
Utexbel.

October 13, 2009

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