Mechanical engineer Don Lomax, an expert in bimetallic cylinders for injection molding and extrusion, died Feb. 7. He was 87.
Lomax got his start in the plastics industry at Xaloy Inc. in New Brunswick, N.J., which had asked him to solve a major design problem in their bimetallic injection cylinders.
The Xaloy brand pioneered the use of bimetallic materials to minimize wear, boost output and improve quality.
Lomax worked as Xaloy's vice president of engineering from 1965-1971, when Wisconsin Centrifugal recruited him to head up a new bimetal division that was a joint venture with Jerpbak Bayless. Wisconsin Jerpbak is still in operation in Solon, Ohio.
Lomax stayed with the JV until Wisconsin Centrifugal officials opted to part ways in 1974. Lomax and his wife, Denise, then bought the bimetal assets and formed Bimex Corp. in Wales, Wis. The business specialized in bimetallic cylinders for the injection molders and extruders.
Lomax held seven patents related to metallurgy, including the patent for Xaloy's X-800 as well as the high-pressure sleeve for injection barrels. These inventions continue to be used by Xaloy and Bimex.
Lomax earned bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering from Ohio University and then attended Rutgers University where he taught while working on his doctoral degree.
He was a member of the Plastics Pioneers Association, which was started in 1948 to engage the next generation of plastics professionals through scholarships, educational programs and a history center.
Friends and family describe Lomax as a true entrepreneur who was always reinventing himself. He also held a real estate broker license and bought, sold and developed properties.
In addition, Lomax had recently retired from Building Envelope Consultants, where he worked 16 years as a professional engineer licensed in nine states.
Lomax grew up in Queens, N.Y. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1953 and became an instructor during his four years of service. He also was the crew chief on a B-29 aircraft.
Upon discharge, Lomax attended college and pursued his interest in engineering.
In his spare time, Lomax was a classic car enthusiast with a special love for 1941 Cadillacs.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Denise; sons, Roger, Christopher and Andrew; three grandchildren and extended family in Ohio.