The Valley Group has taken on the role of helping with the shortage of PPE (personal protective equipment) for front line workers. Richard Dawson, a director of the company, received a phone call from a lifelong friend in need of help in the health sector.

The friend in question worked for the Hywel Dda University Health Board and explained that the West Wales Health Board had exhausted its existing supply of face masks.

Part of the production process of face masks is to make sure that the face visors are cut safely without burrs and sharp edges. The Valley Group has worked with Industrial Tooling Corporation (ITC) for many years, meaning that company could offer advice on how to cut the 0.5mm PETG face visors safely.

Dawson explains: “The PETG visor is the most critical part of the face mask assembly, as we knew that the masks had to be burr-free. With high production volumes and rapid turnaround times, we couldn’t afford to be hand finishing masks. I called Sally Hunt at ITC, as her technical advice and support down the years has been invaluable. Sally considered the working parameters of our Biesse machine as well as the material and thickness, she subsequently recommended the Clearcut 180 Series of solid carbide single flute downcut routing tools.”

He continues: “In little more than a weekend, we have produced over 1,000 masks for the Hywel Dda Health Board and we now have a firm order from Bridgend County Council for another 5,000 masks for its care workers. Additionally, we are currently awaiting testing and certificates required by NHS Wales to supply all Wales’ health boards. With demand rapidly rising, we are aiming to start a second shift so we can increase production from 700 to 1,400 masks per day.”

The face masks incorporate a 0.5mm PETG visor, an elasticated strap and foam padding.

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