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Experience Exchange
needed for surface preparation , coating application and baking . As one of SÄKAPHEN ’ s signature application processes is the tube-side lining of heat exchangers , verifying if equipment suitable for such an application is available at the inquiring party ’ s site is also essential . Finally , we plan an on-site audit . This applies to both onetime applications and long-term partnerships .
At the end of an audit , about three larger sample pieces should have successfully been cleaned , blasted , coated , baked and QC ’ ed , including proper documentation .
On our part , first of all , we name a geographically fitting authorized applicator to the EPC . If no authorized applicator is available despite our vast global partner network , and the EPC can recommend a reliable applicator , or if there is a general interest by an applicator in broadening their service portfolio , we investigate whether this is going to be a one-time application or if the inquiring party is interested in a long-term relationship . In the past , we did not focus on one-time applications . However , since baked coatings and linings are becoming more popular again , we now also support these jobs , especially if an applicator already has experience with other baked products , primarily liquid . Once this is clarified , we check whether the applicator fulfils our technical requirements regarding the equipment
When preparing for an audit , what are the preliminary questions you ask even before getting on-site ? As mentioned before , we check if the applicator fulfils our technical requirements regarding the equipment needed for surface preparation , coating application and , above all , baking prior to any inspection / audit on site . This saves costs and time at both ends . Usually , we share the application procedures and baking charts with them and , in return , receive detailed information about the equipment available . As this establishes a continuous exchange of verbal and written information , many questions come up from both sides , which , as a “ side-effect ”, helps everyone make a good impression on each other . Therefore , when the audit starts , both parties know each other well and can focus on the core task : to see if all is set and ready to apply SÄKAPHEN products to the highest standards . In its more than 70 years of experience , SÄKAPHEN has repeatedly confirmed that a high-quality lining results from a topquality product combined with a top-quality application . One does not work without the other .
What do you focus on at the very beginning of your inspection ? What contributes to making an excellent first impression on you ? Having done multiple audits and on-site inspections over my last 14 years at SÄKAPHEN , I have noticed that the joint travel preparations to the audit ’ s location already reflect the other party ’ s workmanship degree . Indeed , if processes are structured , the company is structured , too . And that also means that a project such as an audit will
Checking the atmospheric conditions .
Christoph Fischer-Zernin from SÄKAPHEN and Dean Wilson from Trepax assessing a stripe coating operation ’ s results . www . heat-exchanger-world . com Heat Exchanger World February 2025
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