Case Study: Helping Nikon Create A Cleaner, Temperature-Stable Environment

Summary

When Nikon got in touch with Hutchinson PVC Solutions, they were facing a serious issue at one of their UK sites. With sensitive microchip testing at the heart of their operations, they needed an effective way to control dust and temperature. Here’s how Hutchinson helped.

Challenge

Nikon’s UK-based facility refurbishing and testing microchip manufacturing machines was facing a significant environmental problem when they first contacted us. These machines are highly sensitive and undergo stringent testing before returning to service. But every time the facility’s large roller shutter door was opened, the temperature in the warehouse dropped sharply. This rapid heat loss wasn’t just uncomfortable for staff, it was interfering with the machines’ performance during critical testing phases.

What’s more the constant opening and closing of the doors, coupled with the open-plan layout of the facility kicked up dust particles and enabled them to migrate to where they shouldn’t be.

To continue providing a first-class standard of service Nikon needed a solution which would keep the temperature stable and stop dust migration without the need for a major structural overhaul.

The Solution

Hutchinson supplied and installed flexible PVC panels from the purlins in the roof and fixed the partition to the ground using angle irons – known as a Tension Wall System – to create a fully sealed zone. We also fitted a strip curtain doorway to maintain easy access for staff.

This enabled Nikon to operate in a temperature stable environment regardless of whether the roller shutter doors were open and to avoid dust contamination in production sensitive areas.

Our team's approach involved three critical elements: suspending flame-retardant PVC panels from the roof purlins, securing the wall system to the ground to ensure a completely sealed space, and incorporating a flexible entry/exit point that allowed personnel and equipment movement whilst minimising dust and air transfer.

Ultimately, the wall allowed Nikon to create a cleaner environment in a cost-effective way.

The Outcome

Nikon had been grappling with their temperature and dust issues for some time before they came to us, but the tension wall significantly improved both the environmental control and team satisfaction. The client said:

“I needed an industrial curtain as I was having a problem with dust in our facility, along with the issue of cold weather affecting our machinery performance.

“Both myself and my team are extremely pleased with the product. As a result of installing the curtains, we have a cleaner working zone, and my team is much happier with the internal building temperatures as it has made it easier to work.”

Why It Worked

Our Tension Wall System offered Nikon a flexible, fast-to-install, and highly effective solution tailored to their unique challenges. By isolating the sensitive machinery zone, we were able to support their high-performance standards and create a more controlled, productive environment for their staff, all without the cost or complexity of a full structural refit.

Find out how Hutchinson can help you transform your workspace with cost-effective partition solutions. Get in touch today.