DEKALB, IL, Feb. 27, 2006 -- Installing the world's largest, state-of-the-art porcelain enameling furnace at its DeKalb plant will improve quality, save energy, increase production and speed delivery of its glass-fused-to-steel products to customers, according to an Engineered Storage Products Company (ESPC) official on Feb. 21.
"This $1.8 million investment represents our commitment to having the best, leading manufacturing technology available in the world," says Rick Jones, Vice President of Sales for ESPC. "The new porcelain enameling furnace is not only the world's largest in the tank industry, it is also the highest efficiency furnace available.
"We anticipate a 15.5% increase in line speed, an 13.4% reduction in cycle time and a 32% boost in through-put (measured in pounds per hour) with this new furnace technology," Jones says.
The new furnace has a number of new features that will improve quality and reliability while lowering maintenance costs. It differs from the existing one in that it is "U" shaped -- rather than straight-lined -- for greater "baking" efficiency. A 120-foot long hot zone provides precise temperature control, while a 78-foot preheating zone heats cold sheets entering the furnace, thereby lowering energy requirements. In all, five advanced temperature control zones regulate the coating process. The result is the highest quality sheets of glass-fused-to-steel every time.
The substantial investment in plant operations reinforces the commitment of CST Industries, Inc., parent company of ESPC, to the DeKalb, Illinois manufacturing site, Jones adds.
All glass-fused-to-steel storage products are manufactured in DeKalb, where ESPC employs 156 people. The DeKalb operation also boasts a 2,500-ton Danley Press, the largest in the tank industry. ESPC is also the only bolted tank manufacturing company using Edge Coating technology to prevent corrosion and maintain tank integrity and longevity.
Even though the new furnace required six weeks to install, shipment of new orders for the company's Harvestore®, Slurrystore® and Aquastore® brands were not delayed, Jones says.
"We are always searching the world for new innovations in glass-fused-to-steel technology," Jones concludes. "This investment enhances our ability to meet and exceed customer expectations for a state-of-the-art product."
Since 1949, Engineered Storage Products Company (www.engstorage.com) manufactures a complete line of storage products for municipal and industrial applications. Applications include storage of potable water; waste water; waste treatment, and storage of free-flowing dry industrial materials. ESPC unites four familiar brand names with established reputations in one firm. Aquastore, Harvestore, Slurrystore, and TecStore™ are recognized worldwide as innovators in the manufacture and erection of storage structures. Combining these leaders in one organization benefits our customers with increased resources for research and manufacturing.
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