Leading a company that stands out in the field of thermal plastics compounding, Jim LeGacy, the President of Orion Performance Compounds in Lugoff, South Carolina, emphasizes excellence and innovation in their operations. At Orion, the meticulous process of transforming raw polymers into high-performance materials for a variety of industries is executed with precision and a relentless focus on cleanliness and safety. From military and aerospace applications to electrical and healthcare products, Orion’s reach extends far and wide, serving some of the most demanding sectors.
High Standards in a Demanding Industry
Plastics compounding is a complex field that involves working with different types of polymers. They can include anything from polypropylene to high-temperature resins. Also, different polymers are needed to create materials that meet specific performance criteria. Customers of Orion Performance Compounds rely on these materials to produce their plastic products when using injection molding techniques. Because of the sensitive nature of some industries they serve, the quality and cleanliness of Orion’s manufacturing environment are non-negotiable.
Commitment to Safety and Cleanliness
At Orion, maintaining a pristine facility is more than a matter of aesthetics; it’s a core principle that underscores their commitment to safety and quality. “Safety and cleanliness are at the top of our list of core principles,” says Jim LeGacy. This dedication is certainly evident to anyone who visits their plant. “Yesterday we had a potential customer come through. They got fifty feet outside the door to the plant and they said that it was the cleanest compounding operation they’d seen,” recounts Jim.
The Role of Effective Dust Collection in Plastics Compounding
In order to achieve this level of cleanliness, Orion partnered with Atlantic Dust Collection out of Kernersville, North Carolina, to install a state-of-the-art CMAXX Dust & Fume Collector. This system plays a crucial role in keeping the facility free from airborne contaminants that can stain and discolor materials, ensuring a safe and clean working environment.
Phil Bramblett, the site manager at Orion, underscores the importance of a robust dust collection system, especially when dealing with dry materials in powder, granular, and pellet forms. “Having a good dust collection system is vital to the operation of the plant,” Phil asserts. The effectiveness of the CMAXX unit in maintaining air quality is another testament to Orion’s commitment to operational excellence.
Why the CMAXX Stands Out
Phil shares that while competitors also produce acceptable dust collection systems, they often come with engineering issues. “The unit that we have now, one of the reasons that we chose that, was to try to alleviate some of those problems.” The CMAXX unit, described by Phil as “the Cadillac of dust collection units,” was chosen above all for its superior design and the quality of its construction. The ease of filter removal is another feature that sets it apart to Orion, making maintenance simpler and more efficient.
A Testament to Quality Plastics Compounding
The partnership between Orion Performance Compounds and Atlantic Dust Collection exemplifies the importance of selecting the right equipment and collaborators in maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety. “Atlantic was great,” Phil notes, appreciating their customer service and attention to detail. This collaboration not only ensures a cleaner facility but also positions Orion ahead of its competition by providing a safer and more appealing environment for both employees and clients.
Orion Performance Compounds’ commitment to cleanliness and safety, reinforced by their partnership with Atlantic Dust Collection and the installation of the CMAXX Dust & Fume Collector, highlights the company’s dedication to excellence. By maintaining a clean and efficient facility, Orion not only meets the rigorous standards of its diverse clientele but also sets a benchmark in the thermal plastics compounding industry. The success story of Orion Performance Compounds serves as an inspiration, showcasing how the right combination of technology, partnership, and core values can drive a company to new heights.
