The Challenge: Creating a Controlled Environment for Precision Inspection
At Vitro Glass Manufacturing’s Carlisle, PA facility, plate glass moves from fabrication directly to electric eye inspection. For this process to work properly, the inspection system required a dedicated space with a cooler, dust-free environment—separate from the high-heat and airborne particles of the surrounding glass processing area. Vitro needed a modular solution that could enclose the equipment, integrate with their conveyor system and maintain the conditions necessary for accurate inspection.
The Solution: Custom Versa-King Enclosure with Conveyor Integration
Porta-King supplied a three-wall modular enclosure measuring 18′-7″ x 38′-11″ and standing 10′ tall, built with Versa-King 3” panels finished in vinyl-covered drywall on both the interior and exterior. The structure featured steel roof decking with rubber end decks to support operational needs and added durability.
Three large, steel-framed openings were integrated directly into the wall system to allow the conveyor belt to pass through the enclosure. This design allowed newly fabricated plate glass to move seamlessly into the inspection area, while rejected pieces could be pushed out a designated side opening for reprocessing.
To maintain the required interior conditions, the end user installed ductless split systems to create a cool, positive pressure environment within the space to support the electric eye inspection system.
Key Benefits:
- Environmental Control: The enclosure allowed the inspection equipment to operate in a clean, temperature-stable space.
- Integrated Workflow: The design accommodated in-process glass inspection with minimal handling or disruption.
- Durability: Vinyl-covered walls, steel decking and reinforced openings provided a long-lasting solution suited for a high-volume manufacturing environment.
- Repeat Success: Following the success of this installation, Vitro installed another identical enclosure at their Pittsburgh, PA facility.
Results: A Reliable Inspection Room Tailored to Vitro’s Process
With this modular solution, Vitro was able to enhance the precision and efficiency of its inspection process while keeping the enclosure integrated directly into their production flow. The customer expressed strong satisfaction with the final build and performance, even adding to a growing number of successful Porta-King installations across their facilities.
Looking to create a controlled environment within your production space? Porta-King can help.
