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Congressman Joe Courtney Visits Davis-Standard’s Pawcatuck Facility
Davis-Standard welcomed Joe Courtney, U.S. Congressman for Connecticut’s Second District, on Friday, August 19, at its headquarters in Pawcatuck. Congressman Courtney and Congressional staff member Taijah Anderson visited the site to learn more about Davis-Standard’s technology, economic impact on the region, and the upcoming expansion of the Pawcatuck facility. Davis-Standard’s president and CEO, Jim Murphy and other Davis-Standard leadership provided an overview and tour of Davis-Standard, offering insight into the company’s impressive global growth, plant specifics and diverse equipment portfolio.
“Davis-Standard has an impressive operation and it was an honor to tour the facility in Pawcatuck,” said Congressman Courtney. “The cleanliness of the machining floor, advanced manufacturing practices and employee engagement is really something to behold.” He continued, “We’re very proud of Davis-Standard and the strong economic boost they continue to provide to southeastern Connecticut.”
Murphy added, “We enjoyed Congressman Courtney’s visit and appreciate his support of the manufacturing industry. Last year, Congress enacted an R&D tax credit this has been beneficial in helping us further our technological advancements. We also appreciate the Congressman’s support of the Pawcatuck expansion, which will house manufacturing capabilities for our growing blown film business.”
Davis-Standard is adding 15,000 square feet of manufacturing space and over 30 jobs in the next two years to its Pawcatuck headquarters, which currently employs over 400 people. The addition, slated for completion later this fall, will house the manufacturing and precision machining of advanced multi-layer blown film dies. It also enables Davis-Standard to move all blown film manufacturing for its Gloucester Engineering product line from Gloucester, Massachusetts, to Pawcatuck.
Davis-Standard has operated in Southeast Connecticut since 1848 and is one of the oldest and largest employers in the Southeast Connecticut/Southwest Rhode Island region. The expansion of the Pawcatuck site reinforces the company’s commitment to the local region. Through its long-standing position as a market leader, it is considered the “Center for Excellence” for Connecticut’s extrusion technology sector. In addition to the Pawcatuck facility, Davis-Standard has manufacturing facilities and subsidiaries in the U.S., Europe and Asia.
For more information about the expansion, contact Carli Guigli at (860) 599-1010.
Davis-Standard welcomed Joe Courtney, U.S. Congressman for Connecticut’s Second District, on Friday, August 19, at its headquarters in Pawcatuck. Congressman Courtney and Congressional staff member Taijah Anderson visited the site to learn more about Davis-Standard’s technology, economic impact on the region, and the upcoming expansion of the Pawcatuck facility. Davis-Standard’s president and CEO, Jim Murphy and other Davis-Standard leadership provided an overview and tour of Davis-Standard, offering insight into the company’s impressive global growth, plant specifics and diverse equipment portfolio.
“Davis-Standard has an impressive operation and it was an honor to tour the facility in Pawcatuck,” said Congressman Courtney. “The cleanliness of the machining floor, advanced manufacturing practices and employee engagement is really something to behold.” He continued, “We’re very proud of Davis-Standard and the strong economic boost they continue to provide to southeastern Connecticut.”
Murphy added, “We enjoyed Congressman Courtney’s visit and appreciate his support of the manufacturing industry. Last year, Congress enacted an R&D tax credit this has been beneficial in helping us further our technological advancements. We also appreciate the Congressman’s support of the Pawcatuck expansion, which will house manufacturing capabilities for our growing blown film business.”
Davis-Standard is adding 15,000 square feet of manufacturing space and over 30 jobs in the next two years to its Pawcatuck headquarters, which currently employs over 400 people. The addition, slated for completion later this fall, will house the manufacturing and precision machining of advanced multi-layer blown film dies. It also enables Davis-Standard to move all blown film manufacturing for its Gloucester Engineering product line from Gloucester, Massachusetts, to Pawcatuck.
Davis-Standard has operated in Southeast Connecticut since 1848 and is one of the oldest and largest employers in the Southeast Connecticut/Southwest Rhode Island region. The expansion of the Pawcatuck site reinforces the company’s commitment to the local region. Through its long-standing position as a market leader, it is considered the “Center for Excellence” for Connecticut’s extrusion technology sector. In addition to the Pawcatuck facility, Davis-Standard has manufacturing facilities and subsidiaries in the U.S., Europe and Asia.
For more information about the expansion, contact Carli Guigli at (860) 599-1010.September 7, 2016
Davis-Standard to Host Seminar on Basics of Plastics Extrusion
2016, September 1
Davis-Standard, LLC will host its popular workshop on “The Basics of Plastics Extrusion,” October 4th & 5th, 2016 at its headquarters in Pawcatuck, Conn. The comprehensive two-day class will cover the fundamentals of plastics extrusion, as well as the composition and properties of various polymers and the mechanics of essential downstream processes. Seminar topics include extruder components, temperature control, maintenance and screw design.
In addition to instruction, course participants will tour Davis-Standard’s Technology Center and manufacturing facilities, and will have access to polymer process engineers and technical specialists. The fee is $750 per person with a 10 percent discount given for groups of three or more. Course books and materials are included and class size is limited to promote student/teacher interaction.
For enrollment or more information about Davis-Standard’s seminar, contact Debbie Crowley at dcrowley@davis-standard.com.
September 1, 2016
Davis-Standard’s High-Speed Foil and Film Unwind at K 2016
Davis-Standard will exhibit a high-speed unwind during K 2016 that is engineered for splice speeds up to 800 meters per minute (2,600 fpm) for sensitive, thin webs. This unwind features pneumatic splice-unit control for improved processing and functionality. It is uniquely engineered for extrusion coating applications involving aluminum foil and PE films.
The two-position, shaftless, phantom-axis turret design offers several advantages:
Davis-Standard will exhibit a high-speed unwind during K 2016 that is engineered for splice speeds up to 800 meters per minute (2,600 fpm) for sensitive, thin webs. This unwind features pneumatic splice-unit control for improved processing and functionality. It is uniquely engineered for extrusion coating applications involving aluminum foil and PE films.
The two-position, shaftless, phantom-axis turret design offers several advantages:
- Driven idler rolls on the turret
- Direct spindle drive using a timing belt without backlash
- Cross-cut knives on the turret between two driven idler rolls
- Lightweight carbon fiber knife holder
- Inverter controlled turret drive
- Precision turret control with an absolute encoder
- Continual gap mode between the bumper roller and reel during the unwinding process
- Automatic air inflation for pneumatic chucks with pressure control
- Tension control via a long-stroke dancer roll
- Ultrasonic sensor measurement for the incoming roll diameter
- Automatic edge guide control
August 29, 2016
Davis-Standard to Market Benefits of High-Speed Extrusion During K Show
The efficiency and throughput capabilities of Davis-Standard’s high-speed extrusion technology will be promoted during K 2016 in Hall 16, Booth A43. Davis-Standard is one of only a few manufacturers worldwide to offer a high-speed extruder for demanding processes where rates and energy savings significantly impact profitability. Advantages such as better product quality, less machine volume for reduced changeover time, and a wider processing window are just a few reasons high-speed extrusion is a cost-effective option.
“We’ve supplied high-speed technology for awhile, but there is still a lot of opportunity for those who seek new ways to boost throughput and performance,” said Steve DeAngelis, Davis-Standard Vice-President of Sheet and Foam. “The potential for improved processing is especially evident for high-speed sheet, fiber and extrusion coating processes. Our design has demonstrated excellent thermal stability and melt quality at throughput rates up to 1,500 kilograms per hour (3,300 pounds per hour). It has also shown increased performance density for PP and PS extrusion. We look forward to discussing these benefits with customers during the show.”
Davis-Standard’s 75mm, 40:1 extruder offers processing versatility due to a favorable surface to volume ratio when compared to conventional extruders. The extruder can be supplied with a direct drive AC motor or permanent magnet synchronous motor configuration. Davis-Standard’s high-speed model offers energy savings of 10 to 15 percent when compared to traditional systems. Additionally, the screw speed and drive unit can be adjusted to accommodate different processing conditions. Davis-Standard has done extensive work on screw designs to further support performance.
For more information about Davis-Standard’s high-speed extrusion technology prior to K, visit www.davis-standard.com.
August 18, 2016
Davis-Standard to Promote dsX™ Product Line at K 2016
Davis-Standard’s popular dsX™ systems for converting applications will be promoted during K 2016 in Hall 16, Booth A43. There has been a positive industry response to these adaptable machines for extrusion coating, cast film and blown film processes due to a competitive advantage in price, performance and delivery. Following is a brief summary of each.
The dsX flex-pack™ (extrusion coating) provides converters and package printers with a high-value, competitively priced system. An adaptable machine configuration gives processors the flexibility to compete in a variety of emerging application markets including salted snack and noodle bags, toothpaste tubes, personal care products, condiment packs and stand-up pouches. Production benefits include product consistency, excellent bonding strength, greater uptime and productivity, and reduced waste and production costs. The economical benefit of these 450 meter-per-minute (1,500 fpm) machines is allowing many regional converters to separate themselves from the competition.
The dsX s-tretch™ (cast film) is the first all-in-one system of its kind for in-line, pre-stretch cast film processing. Integrated technology eliminates the need for traditional pre-stretching methods, resulting in thinner films, faster line speeds and improved film strength. Films as thin as 6μ at speeds from 550 to 1000 meters per minute (1,800 to 3,200 fpm) can be run in three-, five- and seven-layer configurations. As an added benefit, the dsX s-tretchÔ has a narrow footprint for installation in tight spaces maximizing production area while still allowing operator accessibility. It is also available with coreless winding to reduce waste.
The dsX flex-film™ (blown film) is built to support the industry’s core blown film market, including providers, distributors and manufacturers. Target applications include films for laminating and converting, bag making shrink film, hood shrink film, collation film, multi-unit packaging films, roll stock and surface print films. This line merges U.S. and European components to support robust and reliable performance on a user-friendly platform. Unlike similar systems, processors can take advantage of upgrades that balance productivity against capitol investment. This includes multiple extruder packages and options for greater efficiency.
For more information about dsX™ technology prior to K, visit www.davis-standard.com.
August 10, 2016
Davis-Standard to Promote Global Advantage™ at K 2016
Davis-Standard, LLC will exhibit the depth of its Global Advantage™ in extrusion and converting technology during K 2016 in Düsseldorf in Hall 16, Booth A43. Technology being shown includes examples of extruder, feedscrew, die, unwind, and control system advancements as well as the company’s innovative dsX™ technology and extensive aftermarket capabilities. As an added benefit, Davis-Standard’s team will host visitors at ER-WE-PA’s Erkrath facility for equipment demonstrations. Following are highlights from Davis-Standard’s K display:
Extruder with QSE Adapter – This 3.5-inch (90mm) extruder has preferred features such as computer-designed feedscrews, electrical barrel heating with air-cooling for each zone, and simplified electrical installation. Mounted on the extruder will be a QSE (Quick Screw Exchange) adapter for fast screw changes without disturbing the downstream melt path.
High Speed Film & Foil Unwind – Designed for thin substrates, this two-position turret unwind is designed for an 800 meter-per-minute splice speed for sensitive webs such as aluminum foil at 6 µm. Unique splice unit controls and safety standards create excellent reliability for high-speed splicing of complex webs.
Feedscrew and Die Displays – Davis-Standard is a global leader in feedscrews and die designs for improved processing efficiency. Multiple feedscrew designs and finishes will be shown in the booth at the K Show, as well as a seven-layer die stand from Davis-Standard’s Gloucester Engineering product line. Also being promoted will be the new die rebuild services offered by Davis-Standard Limited in the United Kingdom.
dsX™ Technology – This popular line of extrusion coating, cast film and blown film equipment offers processors advantages in price, performance and delivery. Each system is engineered for greater up-time, increased productivity and reduced waste, and backed by Davis-Standard’s 24/7 global support network.
Aftermarket Capabilities – Davis-Standard’s ability to service equipment for nearly every extrusion and converting application, including non Davis-Standard brands, is one of the company’s greatest advantages. This includes an extensive spare parts inventory, timely 24/7-customer service, global technical capabilities rebuild and retrofit services.
For customers interested in visiting Erkrath, Davis-Standard will offer transportation to and from the Düsseldorf Fairgrounds. The transportation schedule will be available at the show. ER-WE-PA will demonstrate new horizontal winding technology and discuss extrusion equipment for a variety of applications. Customers will also learn more about Davis-Standard’s regional service team for the European market, which provides customers with a quick response by service technicians and a large stock of available spare parts. Service and support for Davis-Standard’s line of control systems enables customers to upgrade PLC, drive and mechanical systems on thousands of existing installations, including non Davis-Standard brands.
For more information prior to K, visit www.davis-standard.com.
August 2, 2016
Davis-Standard Turret Unwind Upgrades Boost Productivity
Davis-Standard’s aftermarket group offers turret unwind upgrades that significantly improve productivity and minimize downtime. An upgrade for Green Bay Packaging Inc. involved the modification of two turret unwinds on a 1200 feet-per-minute (365 mpm) pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA) coating line. Davis-Standard changed the turret unwind operation from air brakes with a speeder motor to a fully regenerative operation, which significantly improved both efficiency and performance.
“Upgrades are an excellent way to extend the longevity of turret unwinds that are still operational,” explained Andre Icso, Vice President Global Aftermarket Sales. “It also allows them to run lighter products with significantly better tension control, less scrap, and increased energy savings. For this upgrade, the modification and re-commissioning took only two weeks enabling us to get the customer back up and running quickly.”
Icso said there are several different upgrades available, but the one for Green Bay was very straightforward. Davis-Standard’s team removed the brakes and speeder belt and installed new turret motors and mechanical power transmission to the unwinding spindles. New slip rings, spindle glue line sensors and turret position encoders were also included as well as the installation and integration of four new unwinding spindle drives.
Davis-Standard’s aftermarket group is able to upgrade PLC, drive and mechanical systems on thousands of existing installations, including non Davis-Standard brands. For more information about Davis-Standard’s aftermarket capabilities related to this article, contact Andre Icso at aicso@davis-standard.com.
July 19, 2016
Davis-Standard Limited Announces Die Rebuild and Cleaning Services
Davis-Standard Limited is pleased to announce the addition of blown film die rebuild and cleaning services at its facility in Brierley Hill, United Kingdom. The new services, commencing August 1, 2016, will apply to all blown film dies from Davis-Standard product lines and heritage brands, including Gloucester Engineering. Non Davis-Standard brands will be considered on a case by case basis. This regional capability further supports Davis-Standard’s large installed base of blown film equipment throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
“Our service team is highly knowledgeable in the cleaning of blown film dies as well as the disassembly and assembly of various key components,” said Mark Woodgate, Managing Director of Davis-Standard Limited. “Our vigorous component inspection program ensures customers are immediately aware of any parts that may require refinishing or replacement. This can often result in great cost savings when compared to purchasing a new die. Having a die professionally rebuilt by the original equipment manufacturer using certified replacement parts also brings a level of assurance that others cannot provide.”
The rebuild services will be located within a dedicated area of the Davis-Standard Limited facility, and staffed by technicians with decades of experience in extrusion and blown film processes. Support is available both on- and off-site to ensure customer needs are addressed in a timely manner. Davis-Standard’s aftermarket team in the United Kingdom is part of a global aftermarket team that offers a full range of services including parts replacement and support, complete rebuilds for gearboxes and extruders, as well as control upgrades, drive conversions and more.
For more information about the aftermarket services at Davis-Standard Limited, contact Mark Woodgate at mwoodgate@davis-standard.com or visit www.davis-standard.com.
July 18, 2016
Davis-Standard Ships First Large-Scale Accumulator Head Machine From Fulton Facility
Davis-Standard is pleased to announce the shipment of its first 75-pound accumulator head machine from its new blow molding facility in Fulton, N.Y. This is the largest blow molding machine Davis-Standard has built at this facility, which opened in October of last year. Overall dimensions of the machine are 26 feet wide by 43 feet long and 28 feet tall (8 by 13 by 8.5 meters) to accommodate production of large flat panels, drums and outdoor recreational equipment. Due to the size of the applications, the machine is equipped with a press that has a clear paten area of 60 inches wide by 96 inches tall (1,500 by 2,400mm) and 250 tons of clamping force.
“We have built machines larger than this one before, but this is the first of its size to come out of Fulton,” explained Mark Panaro, Davis-Standard Product Manager, Blow Molding. “The transition to Fulton has been seamless as we continue to offer customers the full range of blow molding machine sizes and head requirements. It was exciting to get this big one out the door.”
As with all Davis-Standard accumulator head machines, this machine was wet tested prior to shipment to simplify installation. The head is equipped with a spiral diverter for efficient wall distribution and color changeovers, and features a clamp with a rollout function to facilitate mold installation and changes. A convenient remote access feature on the machine controller enables viewing of operations via an Internet connection. The total project took nine months from order placement to completion, an excellent timeframe for a machine of this size.
Davis-Standard’s versatile accumulator head systems are available for multiple applications including automotive parts, packaging and consumer products. Machinery advantages include shot-to-shot consistency, cycle-to-cycle precision, and highly accurate parison control for both polyolefins and engineered thermoplastics. Davis-Standard’s Extrusion Technical Service Group can upgrade and refurbish all makes and models of single screw continuous blow molding extruders. This includes replacement screws, process improvements, mechanical and electrical upgrades.
For more information about Davis-Standard’s blow molding capabilities or the new facility in Fulton, contact Mark Panaro at mpanaro@davis-standard.com.
June 29, 2016
Davis-Standard Thermatic® Extruders Support Maxi-Blast Expansion
Longtime Davis-Standard customer Maxi-Blast, Inc. recently installed six Davis-Standard Thermatic® extruders at its new 40,000 square foot facility in St. Petersburg, Florida. This is the latest extruder addition for Maxi-Blast, whose chairman and CEO Robert Donaldson has been purchasing Davis-Standard extruders since founding the company in 1981. Donaldson built Maxi-Blast into the global leader it is today by supplying both cleaning/deflashing equipment and blasting media to support customers in the construction, electrical, rubber and automotive industries among others. The Davis-Standard extruders process nylon and polycarbonate pellets used in the company’s propriety line of cabinets for cleaning screws and molds and deflashing parts.
“From the time I started the company, I felt Davis-Standard built the best extruders,” said Donaldson. “They build a lot of the components in-house, their service is excellent and they are a well-run organization. I am constantly striving to upgrade technology and stay current, so I’ve been replacing my Davis-Standard extruders every 15 years. Not only have I gotten excellent production out of these machines, but I sell the used ones on the secondary market. Used Davis-Standard extruders are always in demand because they are so well-built.”
Davis-Standard’s extruder and feedscrew technology have been instrumental in Maxi-Blast’s quest to make the perfect pellet for their process. Pellets are manufactured in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors and formulations depending on application. As Donaldson explained, pellet geometry is especially important when the material is used as blasting medium so it doesn’t damage the part. Maxi-Blast technology is not only used to clean screws and molds, but it is capable of deflashing rubber, phenolic and die-cast metal parts. The company is so astute at what they do, that the recent facility expansion is 25,000 square feet larger than the old facility.
Donaldson appreciates Davis-Standard’s Thermatic extruder because it is built for the most demanding processing requirements. Customers often describe this model as an “industry workhorse” because of its durability, minimal maintenance, and quiet operation for multiple processing requirements and applications. Another advantage is the Thermatic’s availability with a wide range of feedscrews and control systems. Sizes range from 1 ½ to 10 inches (40 to 250mm) with L/D’s from 12:1 to 40:1. According to Donaldson, the Thermatic is the best extruder out there and he believes it’s worth the investment because of the quality it delivers.
“Maxi-Blast is all about quality. The facility expansion, the new extruders and other equipment upgrades are all part of our ongoing investment strategy to support customers by making the best product possible,” Donaldson explained. “Our new Thermatic extruders are giving us 20 percent more product in the same amount of hours, which is essential to meeting production goals. We tell our customers we’re in this for long-haul and it’s good to know we can rely on Davis-Standard’s technology along the way.”
To inquire about a Davis-Standard Thermatic® extruder, please contact us.
For more information about Maxi-Blast, visit www.maxiblast.com.
June 21, 2016
Oracle Packaging Finds Immediate Success with Davis-Standard Line
2016, June 16
A new Davis-Standard extrusion coating line at Oracle Packaging is exceeding throughput expectations, enabling Oracle to get products to market more quickly than anticipated. The installation, completed in December, supports Oracle’s manufacturing of aluminum foil based products. Applications include custom lid stock, pouch stock, cable armouring, and products with specific barrier and sealant properties. The versatile and expandable design of the Davis-Standard line is fundamental to Oracle’s marketplace growth strategy.
“We researched several global manufacturers and Davis-Standard had the best combination of delivering a total solution for our critical and precise specifications,” said Chris Payne, Oracle’s vice president of sales and marketing. “In addition to addressing machine performance requirements, we were pleased with the installation. There are always challenges with big projects and Davis-Standard met each roadblock head-on. They collaborated with our project team and managed their direct and sub-contracted installers well. We are surpassing throughput estimates, which is giving us a head-start in delivering several products to market .”
The line was customized for Oracle’s processes, including coextrusion capabilities and winding equipment. Davis-Standard’s extrusion coating equipment offers advantages such as superior melt quality, automatic profile control (APC), deckle and die options, multi-coating capacity, web handling and flexible designs based on desired speed or automation. Oracle appreciates that Davis-Standard’s technology combined with their material science is providing a platform to deliver truly innovative products to consumer and pharmaceutical markets.
“This technology investment is key in helping us achieve 10 percent growth per year for the next three years,” said Payne. “As such, we appreciate that Davis-Standard has been comfortable with all of our requests. The outstanding performance of the line is validation of their technology and service-oriented approach.”
For more information about Davis-Standard’s extrusion coating capabilities, contact Rick Keller rkeller@davis-standard.com or visit www.davis-standard.com.
June 16, 2016