Protective coatings and linings manufacturer Tnemec Co. Inc. (Kansas City, Missouri) opened the doors to its new research and development (R&D) facility on March 30, 2017.
This expansion of the company’s current manufacturing plant in North Kansas City, Missouri, includes an upgrade that doubles the size of its previous R&D laboratory and office space. In addition, improvements were made to the facility’s testing and ventilation equipment.
“Tnemec has always been dedicated to researching and developing innovative technologies to protect our customers in corrosive environments,” says Remi Briand, vice president for R&D. “This expansion and renovation represents the next phase of this commitment.”
Among the upgrades, a new chemical immersion room allows the company’s R&D team to conduct more expansive performance testing, including in-house autoclave tests and severe wastewater analysis testing. Several updated fume hoods were also installed to handle tougher testing protocols.
Other improvements include a controlled spray booth for panel preparation, new contact angle devices for nanochemistry, an updated chamber capable of handling temperatures ranging from -94 °F (-70 °C) to 356 °F (180 °C), and a state-of-the-art ventilation system to ensure safety for all personnel and the surrounding environment.
High-performance coatings systems from the company were installed on the walls and floors.
“The scope of this project also included updating our shipping and traffic offices and renovating the building’s break room,” Briand says. “This expansion improves our capabilities and the working conditions for our current employees, while also adding additional room for added personnel in the future.”
The new facility should enable the group to stay focused on delivering high-performance coatings to customers in the ever-changing coatings industry, Briand notes. This expansion comes after several other changes in the company, including the introduction of Chase Bean as president, various new product releases, and an effort to increase its domestic sales force.
“We look forward to the future of research and development for Tnemec and the positive effect it will have on our clients,” Briand says.