Air Base Increases Employee Safety and Productivity

CUSTOMER: Aerospace and defense base 

GRACO EQUIPMENT: Dura-Flo Cart-Mounted Spray Package

CHALLENGE:  A large military base used 10:1 drum pumps and a single feed sprayer to apply chemical stripping material for airplane paint removal. The awkward and heavy pumps were mounted on the wall. Employees sometimes had to lift them off the wall and move them closer to the plane. Many could not complete this physically taxing task. Those who could bear the heavy lifting suffered back pain and other injuries caused by the repeated strain. 

The chemical engineer in charge of process management knew that he needed to make a change for the health of his workforce and the productivity of his operation.

SOLUTION: After consulting their local distributor and a Graco representative, they knew a customized solution could create a much better working environment.

To ensure employee safety, they first needed to get the drum mobile and off of the wall. A cart mount package with a drum holder and wheels allowed the pump to go anywhere. The new mounting package included an updated Dura-Flo pump that increased their ratio capabilities from 10:1 to 23:1, and allowed them to feed two chemical sprayers. 

When the equipment was brought to the hanger for a live demo, it proved to be the perfect fit.

RESULT: The military base personnel were so impressed with the ease of use and drastic reduction in labor that they ordered 19 units with plans to purchase more.

By looking to Graco solutions, they created a safer working environment and increased productivity, ensuring the longevity of their finishing operation for years to come.