C W Fields was established a century ago by Charlie Walker Fields and later became C W Fields & Son when Charlie’s son joined the company in the 1930s. Although the current business would be unrecognisable to Charlie, its roots as a family concern are still at the heart of the company with several generations from a number of families being employed by the South Yorkshire-based firm over the years.

They are industry leading manufacturer, supplying high-performance security and fire doors, acoustic and hygiene doors, wall panelling, and bespoke joinery to specialist markets.

A new 12,000 sq. ft. extension to the current building has significantly increased manufacturing space, resulting in a major reorganisation of the factory layout, as well as accommodating the installation of a new 5-axis CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine. Dust Control Systems Ltd (DCS) were commissioned to install Ecogate technology.

The existing system is powered by three independent fan sets rated at 30kW, 37kW and 45kW. With all three fans in operation and running at 90% of full load, all day every day. The total power consumption would be over 100kW per hour; equating to around 225,000kWh per year.

With Ecogate® installed, power consumption is expected to be reduced by around 100,000kWh per year, resulting in a saving of over 40% on electricity bills, and a return on investment in under 4 years.

• 20 Ecogate® dampers, which automatically open as an individual machine starts to process material and require dust extraction;
• 3 greenBOX 12 controllers, which monitor machine usage;
• 3 PowerMASTER variable speed drive units which, as instructed by the greenBOX controller, independently adjust the speed of each of the main fan sets, in real time, to exactly match the continually fluctuating extraction requirements as machines come on or off-line.

As well as the significant cost savings predicted for C W Fields’ electricity bills, the expected reduction in power usage equates to a staggering reduction in annual CO2 emissions of over 57 tonnes.

“We were very impressed with DCS throughout the whole process. The company provides a truly professional service and, from the outset, it was clear that both Ray and Ian were keen to ensure that Toni and I were provided with all the relevant information we needed to make an informed decision on this key capital purchase.”

Commercial Director John Cowx