FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INMAN, SC (11/10/09) – Mack Molding Co. has invested nearly $3 million to install a fully automated, Class A paint system in its Inman, S.C., molding facility. “This is the next logical step in a plan we launched nine years ago to transform the Inman plant to a super-large part molding and manufacturing center,” says Ray Burns, president of Mack Molding’s Southern Division. “While we have been painting for years, this new system applies a quality finish comparable to that of the automotive industry, which is critical to the recreational vehicle and large truck markets we are now pursuing.”
(Video below includes footage on Mack’s Class ‘A’ paint system, as well as other recently introduced automation.)
The 11,000 sq. ft. enclosed paint room is HEPA-filtered to minimize contamination, dirt, dust and airborne particulates. It features 1200 feet of conveyor, a five-stage wash and rinse system with ultra-high filtration, and three robotic paint booths positioned between a series of dryers and ovens. Full-sized painting robots are stationed in each booth and can apply up to three coats of paint, including primer, base and clear coat.
“The system uses an extremely efficient paint technology that attracts paint to the part via an electrostatic charge, minimizes paint usage, and applies a smoother coat,” explains Ken Kincaid, Mack technical engineering manager. “It also meets customer criteria for a Class A or automotive quality surface.”
Opens new doors
Mack is currently running the line five days per week for a major golf car manufacturer. “We’ve significantly reduced our customer’s logistics costs, not to mention handling and damage expense, because we can now mold and paint under one roof,” says Burns.
“Beyond the utility car business, the new paint line will open up significant opportunities in other markets we serve, including tractor parts and truck bumpers,” he adds.
“It is always encouraging to see existing businesses grow in our state, and Mack Molding’s announcement is no exception,” says Secretary of Commerce Joe Taylor.” The company’s decision to expand its facility in our state is truly a testament that Spartanburg County has laid the groundwork to make itself an attractive environment for business investment. That, coupled with our state’s many benefits, including a skilled workforce and exceptional market access, directly translates into new investment and job opportunities for South Carolinians. We congratulate Mack on its growth and wish the company continued success in its endeavors here.”
Kudos to State
“I’d like to acknowledge the state of South Carolina, both the Department of Commerce and the Department of Health & Environmental Control, for their successful efforts to expedite our environmental/construction permit,” says Facilities Manager Ken Valko. “They not only helped us meet our timeline of September 2009, but significantly accelerated the overall process for us.”
About Mack Molding
Mack Molding is a leading custom plastics molder and supplier of contract manufacturing services. Mack specializes in plastics design, prototyping, molding, sheet metal fabrication, and medical device manufacturing. Founded in 1920, Mack is a privately owned business that operates 10 facilities throughout the world. Don Kendall is president and CEO.
For more news and information about the applications and services of Mack Molding Co., go to www.mack.com or see our Corporate Overview.
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