Universal Electric Corporation (UEC), a pioneer in electrical power distribution since 1924, is a world leader in the development of customisable power distribution systems. Industry innovators for more than 85 years, the company’s premium, flexible products are designed to fit the electrical power needs of any business in any industry. One of the only companies dedicated exclusively to flexible power distribution products, Universal Electric’s award-winning STARLINE systems have revolutionised electrical power distribution in data centres, industrial manufacturing facilities, retail chains and grocery stores worldwide.
In December 2012, Universal Electric Corporation (UEC), a recognised leader in customisable power distribution systems, began researching whether or not it made sense from a business standpoint, to bring the powder-coating process in-house. Led by the Manufacturing Engineering team, the process began with compiling and reviewing process and cost information to determine next steps. However, it didn’t take long for the team to quickly realise early in the process just how impactful insourcing this process would be for UEC. Once it was justified internally, the project was then proposed to the Senior Leadership Team who eventually determined that UEC would purchase the new system as a way to realise the potential short and long-term benefits associated with bringing these services in-house.
To help ensure the company was able to deliver the best, most cost-effective results, the team set out to gather information from multiple system suppliers. The months of prospecting eventually led UEC to a company – Midwest Finishing Systems (MFS) – that could provide the necessary components to help meet and exceeded their customer expectations. The team at MFS worked closely with the lead Manufacturing Engineers on the project to design the system specifications and layout. After reviewing multiple iterations, both sides finalised a layout that not only was lean and compact, but also had the ability to expand to accommodate future needs. As business at UEC continues to grow rapidly, the system was specified initially with enough capacity to insource all of the current powder coating work on a 40 hour per-week schedule. UEC does have additional capacity on the night shift to utilise as necessary.
The system consists of a 3-stage pre-treatment process, a dry-off oven, a Col-Met customised cartridge filtration spray booth, a cure-oven and a cooling tunnel. All parts are carried through the system by 361 feet of Richard-Wilcox enclosed track conveyor, and the entire system is controlled by an Allen Bradley CompactLogix PLC that includes a Maintenance Manager and E-Saver package to help UEC efficiently operate for years to come.
Thanks to the vision of the Manufacturing Engineering team, along with the support of the Senior Leadership team and the Executive team, UEC has expanded the operation’s capacity to reduce costs and lead times to the customers.
Company: Universal Electric Corporation
Location: Canonsburg, Pa.
Website: www.uecorp.com
