Chris Sweeney
RUBBER & PLASTICS NEWS
Published: August 5, 2014 10:32 am ET
Updated: August 5, 2014 10:36 am ET
APS Elastomers has increased its thermoplastic elastomer production by 10 percent in response to growing demand from original equipment manufacturers in various industries.
The firm completed the installation of an underwater pelletizer in March and that — along with longer production runs — has led to increased efficiency.
APS Elastomers said it is responding to demand from processors and manufacturers of wire and cable, tubing and hoses used in industrial, transportation and electronic applications.
Stephane Morin, owner of APS Elastomers, said the pelletizer cost between $75,000 and $100,000, including installation and labor.
“It's an investment that's worthwhile because we can produce a better quality product,” he said. “It allows us to have a better yield on our finished goods. There are a lot of savings there that add up really quickly.”
Morin estimates that 10-12 percent of APS' business is in wire and cable, with some projects in the works designed to grow the business further. He said the firm's goal is to expand wire and cable to 20 percent of its overall business.
The executive said he believes the growth in the industry is sparked by higher production volume from wire and cable producers.
“Increasing production capacity and developing new technologies and product offerings to customers allows us to prove our commitment to the TPE market in North America,” Morin said in a statement.
APS Elastomers, headquartered in Romulus, Mich., produces thermoplastic vulcanizates and thermoplastic urethanes. The firm's TPEs can be manufactured to customer specifications, compounding standards and custom grades for individual applications. | 
