BEF Pots - Behind the Scenes

[Chris L]

Last Friday myself, Peter and Ivor got the chance to visit the factory where they make the BEF Pots. We took numerous photos and some video footage which I have edited into a short film.

It was really interesting watching the machines in action - and the whole process is much slower than we expected. The raw materials are strange too - there is a wheelie bin full of white pellets, and perhaps a jug full of colouring added to it and that little amount is enough to give the pot its colour.

We saw some of the moulds as well which need lifting into the machines with a block and tackle.

Anyway here is the video - enjoy!
[click the "youtube" icon at the bottom right of the square - it is in HD]



More pictures here:
http://manchester.bcss.org.uk/home/b-e- ... enquiries/

[ralphrmartin]

Thanks Chris.

By the way, I had a look at the order form - but its not clear how to use it with Excel on a Mac. The instructions don't apply (no such menu as the one you are instructed to use), and no chance to put the password in. Perhaps some separate instructions could be cooked up for us Mac users? Or perhaps just a simpler, unprotected version of the form?

[Tony R]

Very informative and well put together. Thanks, Chris.

[Chris in Leeds]

Chris how many pots does it make at a time and have you slowed it down or is that the actual speed of the process
And one final question how much does a mould cost to make (if you know)

[Chris L]

Chris how many pots does it make at a time and have you slowed it down or is that the actual speed of the process
And one final question how much does a mould cost to make (if you know)

It goes that slow. About 20 seconds per cycle. One or two pots each time. I suppose the thickness of the pot means it needs longer to cool.

Moulds are not cheap. It is a four figure sum of money.

[Chris L]

Thanks Chris.

By the way, I had a look at the order form - but its not clear how to use it with Excel on a Mac. The instructions don't apply (no such menu as the one you are instructed to use), and no chance to put the password in. Perhaps some separate instructions could be cooked up for us Mac users? Or perhaps just a simpler, unprotected version of the form?

I'll see what I can do.

[Chris in Leeds]

Thanks Chris it is a nice look at the process
And thanks for the info

[Keith H]

Thank you, I always like the 'In The Factory' type programmes, you just need a narration by Greg Wallis.
And it reminds me that I must order some pots.

[el48tel]

Thank you, I always like the 'In The Factory' type programmes, you just need a narration by Greg Wallis.
And it reminds me that I must order some pots.

Chris and Ivor did it much better at the recent Manchester meeting, than the "barrow boy" could ever do