Sullivan Palatek, a leading manufacturer of air compressors in North America, has augmented its production capabilities with the acquisition of a state-of-the-art TG350E CNC helical rotor grinding machine from PTG Holroyd, a prominent UK-based manufacturer of rotor milling and grinding machines.
Located in Michigan City, Indiana, Sullivan Palatek has integrated the TG350E alongside their existing PTG Holroyd TG350 rotor grinder and 3EX-R rotor milling machine, both of which have been operational since 2009. This trio of machines will facilitate the production of helical rotors ranging in diameter, manufactured from dura-bar and cold rolled steel. These enhancements are crucial as Sullivan Palatek prepares for upcoming minimum efficiency standards for air compressors in the United States.
Scott Newcomb, Director of Plant Operations at Sullivan Palatek, highlighted the impact of the new TG350E on their manufacturing efficiency: “With two rotor grinders in operation, we can significantly increase productivity, especially since finishing each compressor rotor takes twice as long as the milling process. Moreover, the ability to manufacture both male and female rotors simultaneously further boosts our operational efficiency.”
In addition to the new TG350E, PTG Holroyd will upgrade the CNC system on Sullivan Palatek’s older TG350 rotor grinder, aligning it with the latest technological standards. This partnership underscores Sullivan Palatek’s longstanding relationship with PTG Holroyd, dating back to the 1960s, when they first invested in Holroyd machines in Claremont, New Hampshire.
Mark Curran, Sales Director at PTG Holroyd, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing collaboration: “Sullivan Palatek’s repeated investment in our machines reflects their confidence in our technology and our commitment to meeting their manufacturing needs.”
PTG Holroyd’s TG Series machines are renowned for their high speed, high accuracy, and efficient stock removal capabilities. Designed for precision grinding of helical screw components, these machines incorporate advanced automation for reduced setup times and continuous dressing of diamond dressing disks during grinding cycles.
The expansion at Sullivan Palatek’s Michigan City facility, including plans for a 50% increase in size, underscores their commitment to leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies to maintain leadership in the air compressor industry.