Viega Adds Davis-Standard Extruders to Increase PEX Production
December 5, 2008
(Pawcatuck, Conn.) - To support its growing PEX tubing operation, Viega recently installed several Davis-Standard extruders at the company's new 439,000 square-foot (40,780 square-meter) manufacturing and logistics facility in McPherson, Kansas. The extruders, customized to Viega's specifications, include 3 ½-inch (90mm) Mark V® models and high performance adjustable extruders, the HPE-150A (150mm) and HPE-75A (75mm). This massive new facility increases Viega's production and distribution capabilities for PEX products as well as other molded plastic products including the company's water distribution systems and extruded fittings.
"Our philosophy is to partner with one or two vendors in each machinery competence and work with them for the mutual success of each company," explained Robert Boots, Vice President of Manufacturing for Viega. "Davis-Standard is the industry leader and a very viable choice for us. We have realized higher output rates with our Davis-Standard extruders than with our other machines. We also like the fact that service is available when needed, especially the online services which are so convenient for our maintenance staff."
Despite a decline in the residential housing market, Viega is committed to investing in PEX technology as new opportunities outside housing continue to emerge. This includes the increased use of PEX in light commercial applications and the radiant floor heating market. With more than 30 years' experience in PEX plumbing and radiant heating applications, Viega is at the forefront of this technology. PEX is also gaining in popularity and acceptance throughout the world. Each year, millions of feet of ViegaPEX(TM) tubing are installed throughout the U.S., Mexico and Canada.
Davis-Standard's extruders are well suited for Viega's products because of a rugged design, longer L/D ratios, excellent processing rates and proven feedscrew technology. This is important for the durability requirements of ViegaPEX products. For example, ViegaPEX and ViegaPEX Ultra tubing are ideal for both hot and cold potable water-plumbing systems, capable of withstanding extreme pressures, temperatures and water conditions. ViegaPEX Ultra also includes UV stability for up to six months of outdoor exposure and larger sizes for more demanding applications. Viega's FostaPEX® tubing combines the flexibility of PEX with the form stability of rigid piping for ease of installation while maintaining the appearance of rigid tubing. This tubing, which is fully dimensioned PEX surrounded by aluminum and PE outer layers, is ideal for situations where expansion of traditional tubing is an issue or where the tubing may be exposed.
For more information about Viega, visit www.viega.com. For more information about Davis-Standard's PEX tubing equipment capabilities, contact Wendell Whipple at wwhipple@davis-standard.com.
CONTACT
Luann Kupka
Marketing & Sales Administration Manager
Extrusion Systems
860-599-6262
