“Gazelle-like” moulding machine makes a five star impact at UK manufacturer

A UK manufacturer of plastic components for office equipment has recently invested in a new injection moulding machine, which it says is like “changing from a cow to a gazelle” in terms of performance.

Wigan-based Suscom Industries has installed two new Romi Primax 600 R plastic injection moulding lines with full automation robotics.

This investment, it says, will enhance the output of five-star office chair bases and ensure the products can be made at a price that allows the company to compete with competition from China.

“We decided this time to use Romi Primax 600 R rather than 800 tonne machines from the competition,” said Tony Tartaglione, Managing Director of Suscom.

“It has been like changing from a cow to a gazelle. The Primax is fast on its feet! With this investment we can give our customers top quality office equipment components, fast turnrounds and competitive prices.”

The project involved a six-strong supplier list, with Romi UK National Sales Manager, Neil Bathard, project managing the installation.

The other suppliers involved were Kawasaki, which supplied three six-axis robots to remove product and pre-assemble casters; Eversheds whose engineers designed and installed the automation; Jenco who supplied the driers, hopper loaders and the Oktomat material loading conveyor system; Isocool who provided the chillers and mould heaters to keep temperatures under control; and Ultrapolymers who supplied the nylon materials.

“If one thing doesn’t work, nothing works. That was why it was important the suppliers came together and were led by Neil. We then have one port of call if anything goes wrong,” continued Tartaglione. “It took a year from start to finish but was a project well designed and executed.

“We want to keep work in the UK and to do that you need the right equipment and efficiency. Only then can you have the right quality and cost base.”