Graco AFD Announces New Applications Laboratory
February 1, 2017
Graco Advanced Fluid Dispense (AFD), a provider of fluid handling products and systems, has announced its new Applications Laboratory and Learning Center located in North Canton, OH. The 10,000 sq. ft. laboratory focuses on precision metering, mix and dispense equipment and automation capabilities. The new lab serves two primary functions: proving out customer-specific dispense processes and product training.
"The new lab allows Graco application experts to apply industry-leading fluid handling experience to help customers solve difficult challenges and determine the best equipment solutions for their unique application needs," said a company spokesperson. "Mistakes in fluid dispense applications can be extremely costly. Customers looking to avoid potential pitfalls and manufacturing problems achieve tremendous benefits by working directly with experts."
Graco application experts conduct laboratory testing programs to assist customers in proving out a process. During laboratory tests, which may last anywhere from a day to a week, Graco builds and tests equipment customizations to address the customer's specific material handling requirements. Tests can vary depending on the amount of process development and equipment customization required. With several robots available, Graco engineers and their customers can replicate an assembly in a full factory production environment to evaluate performance of key factors, such as dispense time, mix/fluid quality, shot weight and ratio repeatability.
The Applications Laboratory and Learning Center is also used for product training classes for Graco distributors and end users. Graco classes are designed to help customers program, assemble/disassemble and operate their dispense equipment solutions. The space is also used to host large distributor meetings to showcase new products and technology.
The large space also serves as the central storage headquarters for Graco's equipment loaner program. Graco loans equipment to distributors so they can conduct tests at their facilities. Equipment is also available for in-house factory trials, during which tests determine how the dispense equipment communicates with robots as well as effects on cycle time in the end user's environment.
For more information contact:
Graco USA
8400 Port Jackson Avenue Northwest
North Canton, OH 44720
330-494-1313
www.graco.com/AFS
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