Ludlow, Mass.-based Hanson Group Ltd. has expanded injection molding capacity at its plants in Ludlow and Mayfield, Ky. Hanson purchased the Mayfield plant in April 1995.
The company has removed all of the old machines, and ``the capacity has gone through the roof'' with the new equipment, according to John Rego, vice president of marketing and development.
Last month at Mayfield the company added two Van Dorn Demag HT injection molding machines with clamping forces of 230 and 120 tons.
Those presses will produce a high volume of parts for writing implements, such as markers, from poly-propylene, said Rego.
The company also reorganized the complex, adding a water tower system and a desiccant drying system. It hired five more employees as a result of the expansion, giving the Mayfield plant a total of 40 workers.
``We've been well-received in the region, people are real supportive,'' Rego added.
``The state of Kentucky is helping us to expand and add to our employment by offering tax credits.''
Rego explained that the state is providing employees with training at local colleges.
Topics covered in the classes include quality control and job skill courses.
Hanson pays for all its employees' education costs, whether business-related or not. The firm said its goal is to raise the technology competency of all its employees.
``Our company is really growing. The volume of molding business is coming in at a strong pace,'' Rego said.
Meanwhile, Hanson installed three new Van Dorn Demag HT injection molding machines - two 300-tonners and a 400-tonner - at its 120-employee headquarters plant in Ludlow.
The firm also added an Agitron Compact 30 computer numerically controlled, electric discharge machine to its mold-making facility in Ludlow.
Both plants offer decorating and assembly. They also design, prototype and build molds.
``It's our goal to reduce the time from design to market so our customers can get to the market quickly,'' Rego said.
Hanson Group serves the automotive, sporting goods, consumer electric and industrial markets and uses all types of materials.
The company also has established an Internet site, at http://www.hansonltd.com. Hanson's new e-mail address is [email protected]
