Last month, after traveling 900 miles I ended up in a small Pennsylvania community reminiscent of our Central Wisconsin. Morgantown is home to the U.S. headquarters of Nilfisk Industrial Vacuums. I had the opportunity to spend three days with a variety of Nilfisk employees to expand my technical, application, and quoting knowledge during an industrial vacuum (IVAC) training seminar. My foundation of knowledge was what I learned from working with our MRO Manager and several plant demos that I was able to be a part of. However, I lacked a technical understanding of what went into each vacuum and how to identify the everyday applications that could increase our vacuum sales. These areas I lacked were adequately touched upon and I now feel confident when it comes to assessing the application and selecting a vacuum for the customer.
Also, highlighted in this training was the hot topic of combustible dust (com dust) and class rated areas. It is a plant’s duty to know whether they have class rated areas and then to take the necessary steps to eliminate com dust and the elements that can cause an explosion. One way Nelson-Jameson can be of assistance is by providing explosion-proof vacuums (electric or pneumatic), accessories, and replacement parts needed to comply with OSHA guidelines. One key point that was stressed by Nilfisk is that neither we nor they can tell a customer if they have combustible dust. Companies are required to investigate and know the dust status in their facilities and whether or not they require EXP vacuums.
Now with a better understanding of industrial vacuums and applications, I look forward to getting in the field more to assess our customer’s needs. If your company would like a demo or in-plant trial please contact me at [email protected] or 715-387-1151.
