South Point Plant Progress
Progress continues on schedule at our new South Point facility.
Our team continues to work diligently on finalizing the last details of commissioning and ramping up the equipment. We have successfully validated over 60% of the lead products so far, and continue to prepare for a commercial launch as planned.
New Packaging Improves Safety and Quality
South Point’s new packaging line has been engineered to allow for production of bags as light as 25 lbs.
They have also been engineered to be tighter and more compact, reducing the back strain caused by conventional monolithic bags that allow contents to shift while handling.
The new bags also eliminate spillage between pallet layers, removing airborne dust.
The texture of the bags enables a better grip, reducing the risk of dropping the bag.
HWI will be the first US refractory manufacturer to deliver monolithics in form, fill, and seal technology. This new packaging will slow material aging on product in 55 lb. bags and deliver more predictable performance than ever before. It will also be 100% recyclable, reducing cost and waste on site.
Brand and lot code, along with water and mixing time, will be printed directly on each bag, creating a very precise and visible traceability.
Another new practice at South Point will be the use of a 5.5 mil stretch hood covering each pallet, whether bags or bulk sacks, that wraps around the bottom of the pallet, eliminating the need for any banding and improving weather resistance.
Improved Consistency & Quality
We’ve made investments to ensure tighter tolerances and higher consistency of our raw materials to deliver the most consistent product.
Improved Service & Lead Time
South Point will act as a high-volume facility, focusing on replenishing stocks of products most critical to our customers. We’ll have the right product in the right place, at the right time. South Point will satisfy most of our products from inventory, so lead times will drop dramatically.
Rapid Response Time
Investments in inventory and a new customer focused operating system will usher in a new era of service unseen in the refractory industry.
Added Capacity to Grow
South Point is designed to deliver now and as we grow. Expandability is built in to this next generation design of monolithic plant.
About HWI, A member of Calderys
HWI is the largest supplier of refractory products and services in the United States, with a history that spans more than 150 years. It is part of Calderys and is the brand for the Americas region of the Group. HWI counts 25 manufacturing sites and 20 distribution centers in the Americas, as well as the largest refractory industry research facility in North America. Serving virtually every major industry that requires refractory solutions to enhance production and protect assets, HWI is consistently recognized for its talented experts, industry firsts, and intensely driven excellence.
For more information, visit https://thinkhwi.com