Swindon & Wiltshire News
Orders give dental firm something to smile about
A Wiltshire company which manufactures a range of high quality products for the dentistry market has increased its productivity by 300 per cent and is exporting to more than 40 countries worldwide after re-structuring its production process.
Associated Dental Products, which is based in Purton, has installed some bespoke processing equipment that has enabled it to cut modelling waxes quicker and more accurately than before. The new machinery, which incorporates an innovative water cooling process that improves heat conductivity, has also produced energy savings of 30 per cent.
The company sought support from the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) to assist with the development of the equipment.
Graham Mayoh, managing director of Associated Dental Products, said: “Manufacturing each sheet of wax consumes quite a large amount of energy and time. We wanted to find a solution that would enable us to become more energy efficient and productive without compromising on the quality of our products.
“MAS took us through a lean manufacturing workshop and introduced us to tools and techniques to help us re-design the wax casting line.
“With the new equipment in place we have increased capacity by 70 per cent and recruited a dedicated shift manager to help manage the increased demand. Having MAS on board to oversee the project and encourage us every step of the way was vital.”
Andrew Phillips, MAS Advisor for Wiltshire, said: “Associated Dental Products had a clear vision for moving the business forward and with our support have been able to implement an innovative production process. It is particularly pleasing to see that the company is now exporting into new international markets.”
Associated Dental Products has been manufacturing a range of modelling waxes and similar laboratory products for 90 years. It now has 40 members of staff and a turnover of £2.5m.
Plans are already in place to develop a second production line as the company looks to expand business further in Asia and South America.
For more information on MAS and the services it provides, call 0845 658 9600, email advice@mymas.org or visit www.mymas.org
