Supplies Archives

Save money on your compressed air systems

Written by Christopher Richmann on May 6, 2024. Posted in Compressed Air, Compressed Air, Compressed Air, Compressed Air, Compressed air systems, Featured. Leave a Comment

Depending on the size and scope of a factory, assembly plant, or manufacturing facility, the energy bill could be over $10 million a year. For some facilities, an energy bill of $1 million isn’t unheard of.

Typically, a large portion of this bill comes from air compressors. The Department of Energy estimated that compressed air could account for roughly 10% of electricity consumed at a facility. For some locations, it could be as high as 30%.

According to a scientific review conducted by Malaysian researchers, “Only about 10–20% of total input energy is utilized for useful work in compressed-air system.” This means for every $1,000 spent on compressed-air energy, only $100 to $200 is actually used to power machines and tools.

The numbers can be complex, but the overall point is simple: running an air compressor is expensive. Therefore, you have to get the most from your system. There are many strategies for compressed air savings, including rebates and incentives from state governments.

1. Work with the right installer

Arguably, the most important step, as it impacts all other factors, is that a facility must work with the right installer to bring the highest compressed air savings. An experienced, trained, and knowledgeable compressed air installer can examine your air needs and make quality recommendations to ensure the best results. If needed, they can conduct a thorough audit of your current system.

An air systems installer can work directly with a plant manager and ownership team to make strategic recommendations and ensure successful installation. They can suggest proper equipment for longer lasting energy savings as well as design and install a system that provides maximum efficiency. Installers, especially those who have worked in your industry, will recommend the best placement for air drops, the proper size and number of air compressors, and will consider the cost and value of your system.

Also, an installation professional can recommend changes and custom engineering solutions, helping facilities overcome barriers to efficiency, such as dirty environments or complex facility layouts.

2. Ensure you have the right machines

Before a facility can begin maintenance and apply for rebates, it needs the right equipment. Proper air compressors and accessories from leading manufacturers will ensure a higher level of success, bringing better efficiency and lower costs.

The air compressors should properly match your operations. Each facility has different needs for compressed air; some only need one small air compressor, while others need multiple large-scale machines. The distance from the compressor to the use point, as well as the number of drops and types of tools in regular use, will all impact your compressor selection.

The air system, from compressor to tool, should properly match your needs. It must have the right horsepower and deliver proper cubic feet per minute (CFM) to ensure efficient air use.

Compressed air savings start with the right compressor from high-quality manufacturers like Kaeser.

3. Keep up with maintenance

Maintenance matters. Industrial facilities need proper maintenance for their compressed air systems. Maintenance uncovers issues that may cause your facility to shut down and provides opportunities to make immediate changes to run at peak efficiency.

What will a service team do? They’ll change air and oil filters, add lubricant, replace belts, inspect vents, and more. After all, preserving your compressed air system keeps costs down.

4. See your state’s energy rebates

All states, from California to Maine, provide energy rebates and incentives to private individuals and organizations. When considering energy savings, it helps to look up various incentives, especially when installing new equipment, as many programs make energy-efficient installations more affordable. Some offer down-the-road savings through tax incentives (in other words, pay for the expense now, get a big reduction on your taxes later), while others provide more immediate savings or favorable loan terms. The right compressed air service team will know these rebates well.

The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency is among the best resources. This website enables you to find excellent rebates by searching an interactive map. You can select a state and search categories that include biomass, fuel cells, geothermal, and emerging technologies. There is also an energy-efficiency category.

There are numerous incentives for every state. Let’s look at a handful of examples from a few states.

South Carolina

In South Carolina, various programs bring financial incentives and favorable loans for energy-efficient upgrades and installations. For example, there is the Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund, which provides up to $1 million for energy upgrades to commercial and industrial groups.

Ohio

Some areas provide local incentives. Cincinnati, Ohio, provides a good example. They have the Property Tax Abatement for Green Buildings program, which allows for a temporary tax abatement on commercial properties that meet LEED certification standards. This allows for a 15-year tax abatement.

Michigan

In Michigan, manufacturing facilities can take advantage of financial incentives that include the Coldwater Board of Public Utilities rebate program. This program encompasses numerous energy-efficient changes that may not be related to your air system but allow for a reduction in your energy bill. This program includes compressed air systems as well!

Call us for compressed air savings!

When it comes to the right installations, ensuring fantastic maintenance, and getting the equipment, the Elevated team can help. We make facilities more efficient, use less energy, and receive money-saving incentives and rebates! Our team will never sell compressed air systems you don’t need. And with 24/7 emergency coverage, we’re here to help you get your facility running at peak performance.

compressed air case study about sustainability

Case study: reducing energy waste to improve efficiency, save money, and increase sustainability

Written by Christopher Richmann on April 5, 2024. Posted in Coating application equipment, Compressed Air, Compressed Air, Compressed Air, Compressed Air, Featured, Manufacturing, Metalworking. Leave a Comment

When Sandvik Coromant laid out ambitious goals for sustainability and energy efficiency, they realized that the air system in their South Carolina facility needed an upgrade. Working with Elevated Industrial Solutions, they were able to cut waste and enhance sustainable practices, all while reducing their overall energy bills.

About the client: Sandvik Coromant

Sandvik Coromant is a manufacturer specializing in metal-cutting tools used in machining applications. Established in 1942 in Sweden, this company is part of the larger engineering group known as Sandvik.

It’s an impressive company with over 100,000 customers worldwide. Sandvik holds more than 1,700 global patents and files 150 patents each year. The group specializes in customized machining tools and digitization; in manufacturing circles they have a well-established reputation for fast production and lasting quality.

As a major global company, Sandvik Coromant leaders are aware of their significant impact on the environment. They are committed to sustainability and energy efficiency, which is why they needed the support of our air-system experts.

The problem: wasted energy from the air system

Sandvik Coromant grew in numerous global regions, including South Carolina, mainly at the Westminster facility.

The existing air system in Westminster had some issues. It was outdated and decentralized, leading to poor energy efficiency and overall air loss, causing the compressors to work overtime to meet the facility’s air needs. There was an issue maintaining consistent pressure, especially when the workload increased. The air within the system also had quality issues, reducing overall product quality and creating further needs for equipment maintenance.

Energy consumption was a particular issue for the facility. Previous studies indicated that the air system was one of the biggest energy users for the entire facility. The company, however, had bold targets for sustainability; wasting that much energy was unacceptable.

Sandvik Coromant needed a partner who could evaluate their needs, plan and build an efficient system, and work with the company to maintain reliability, efficiency, and overall performance. They turned to Elevated, an authorized Kaeser distributor in the South Carolina area, to overhaul the air system and provide greater efficiency with superior performance.

Our solution: a smart, innovative air system

Using an air-study process, Elevated recommended a new primary air system and a smaller secondary system.

The primary system would consist of four DSD-175 rotary-screw compressors and three TG 980 Secotec dryers. The team would also install a Sigma Air Manager (SAM) 4.0, which pulls operational data and enables stable pressure. To enhance efficiency, the team recommended increased storage and a new SmartPipe distribution system. These components and technologies would improve overall efficiency while significantly reducing wasted air.

The secondary system would be used for extra machining and would consist of two SK 20 rotary-screw compressors. There would be a SAM for this system as well.

The result: sustainability, savings, and efficiency

The original study estimated roughly $80,000 in annual energy savings for the facility. Even for a global manufacturing group like Sandvik, this would be a significant improvement. But in the end, the savings were $90,000 per year – $10,000 more than anticipated.

In addition, facility managers can track usage and make adjustments thanks to reporting capabilities by the SAM unit. Using this critical information, managers and leaders can decrease pressure – as needed – for additional savings, all while delivering on the company’s promise to be more efficient and sustainable.

Exceed your goals with Elevated

Elevated helps you meet your company’s goals. We can increase the efficiency of your facility in eastern Michigan, western Ohio, and South Carolina. Our expert teams can install machines, conduct analysis, and provide additional equipment … just like they did at Sandvik Coromant.

We also offer preventive maintenance at each of our locations to ensure your facility never shuts down, operating at peak efficiency every day.

Special thanks to Kaeser for the article write-up!

Tony Grubish is an MVP at Kaeser and Elevated

Written by Tami Matthews on March 5, 2024. Posted in Compressed Air, Compressed Air, Compressed Air, Compressed air systems, Employees, Featured. Leave a Comment

We love it when we receive updates that demonstrate our employees’ commitment. The story below was covered in February 2024. Now that it’s August 2024, Kaeser just announced the All-Star Leads for who’s winning mid-year. It’s no surprise that Tony Grubish is the mid-year Most Valuable Player. And congratulations to Tom Kilgore for winning Best Batting Average at the mid-year point.

Kaeser Compressors has high standards. The company and its employees only produce quality compressed air systems. Tony Grubish (sales engineer at Air Center – an Elevated Industrial Solutions Company) has high standards, too. Tony won the coveted Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for #1 salesperson in the U.S. from Kaeser (as part of the All Star contest) announced in January 2024.

Kaeser is known for precise German engineering. Like Elevated, Kaeser doesn’t compete on price; the company positions sales around value. What does that mean? The yellow compressors aren’t the cheapest option but are known for their longevity and quality; people choose them for their reliability and trustworthiness.

Tony Grubish came from the U.S. Air Force as a mechanic. Afterward, he worked as a service technician with a major competitor for nine years. At Air Center, he’s spent the past 19 years as a technician, service manager, and now a sales engineer. That time has given Tony a chance to develop a customer-focused strategy – understand his customers’ business and their compressors. In that way, Tony proves he’s reliable and trustworthy. Demonstrating our values is why customers keep coming back.

Kaeser’s All Star contest

There are various rules from Kaeser for the All Star contest based on baseball stats. You need to meet complicated criteria – sell two machines per month and achieve key metrics that include selling specific equipment.

Tony exceeded these metrics, winning the MVP at the year’s midpoint and at the end of the year.

Being an MVP came easy to Tony. One company had a mix of compressors, including some cheap Italian machines, that were failing. Employees there turned to Tony, relying on his expertise and competitive quote. He received a purchase order for 90 units before the end of January 2023.

“I was on a great path,” Tony admitted.

Get the customer, not always the sale

Tony credits his background as a service technician with a Kaeser Master Service Tech/Sales Certification on how he wins with customers. He asks questions to thoroughly understand the customer’s business and checks out the machines. Sometimes, that means he sells a new compressor, but not always. Instead, he’s focused on taking care of the customer to help them meet their goals – recommending service or changes to extend the life of their current compressor … even when he receives a request for quote.

“I’d rather get the customer than a sale.”

He knows he’s building a relationship. Because customers trust Tony, they keep coming back.

Tony said, “Once the relationship is built, selling new equipment, when they need it, is easy.”

Winning

Tony was leading as the best salesperson for Kaeser all year, joined by two other salespeople at Air Center: Chris Brown and Tom Kilgore. Although Chris and Tom lost out in December, our Michigan branch nearly had three of the top five Kaeser sales spots!

He also credits the fantastic service technicians; he indicates they’re a big part of how the branch keeps winning. It doesn’t hurt that his wife, Fay Grubish, is the service manager in northwestern Ohio, where he sells compressors.

“At Air Center, we’ve always taken pride in our service, and we have built a great relationship between our sales and service departments.”

Tony’s win as MVP also moves Air Center to the Kaeser designation of “level 5.” Kaeser has a system of levels from 0 – 5, giving deeper discounts on equipment and parts as you move up the scale. At level 5, Air Center earns more profit from sales. Of course that makes general manager, Jim Casey, happy. It helps their branch stay competitive while selling the gold standard in compressors.

But there were some personal rewards, too, for being the MVP besides bragging rights. Tony and his wife are going to Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. And Elevated provided an extra award for demonstrating the values and brand.

What’s on for 2024?

When asked if he would win the MVP again, Tony sheepishly noted he has a purchase order for a bunch of compressors. Modestly, he confirmed he has a good chance of staying in the Presidents Club in 2025.

That winning attitude is why Tony’s an MVP at Elevated, too.

Foam abrasives 101 from Uneeda

Written by Uneeda on January 23, 2024. Posted in Abrasives, Industrial, Industrial, Industrial supplies, Woodworking. Leave a Comment

Foam-based abrasives – otherwise known as sanding sponges or sanding blocks – have become a popular option for various sanding applications – and they make up some of our most popular products. However, with all the options available, it can be tough to know which will best meet your needs.

In this article, you’ll learn about Uneeda’s foam sponges, their advantages, their differences, and the various technical aspects that could help you choose your ideal solution. Of course, there is no perfect, one-size-fits-all product, so at the end of the day, optimizing your sanding process comes from a balance of knowing the technical aspects of your project needs and the abrasives, as well as some amount of trial and error to find what works best for you.

Foam density

In general, foam abrasives are made from two densities – referring to the “heaviness”/firmness or flexibility/softness of the foam. The two options are soft density, also known as “open-cell”, and hard density, or “closed-cell”.

One isn’t better than the other, rather they are used for different applications.

Soft

Soft-density foam, as you might guess, is more flexible and “squishy.” Open-cell foam will easily fold, flex, and bounce back with no issue or permanent change. This is beneficial when sanding profiles and intricate shapes, such as on crown moldings or contours on cabinet doors, as well as edge sanding. You can manipulate soft-density foam to match any curve or contour you might need to, as the lightness allows the foam to recede and mold to any shape. Soft cell sponges are also great for rounded objects, such as chair or table legs, railings, or newel posts, as they can be wrapped around the workpiece. One issue that sometimes occurs with some soft-density sponges is “grain shed” – in which some of the abrasive grain comes off of the sponge due to the malleability of the foam. This can cause excess grain to be left behind on your surface, while also affecting the longevity of the tool. However, Uneeda’s Ekadiamond sponges, specifically, have been shown to have minimal to no grain shed, making them a high-quality option for this type of sanding. Additionally, because open-cell foam is so soft when sanding by hand, you need to be careful to use even pressure with each finger, to get an even and consistent finish.

Hard

Hard-density foam is made of a thicker foam substrate, which generally isn’t nearly as flexible as open-cell products. Due to the nature of foam, all sponge products have some level of “give”, however, because closed-cell products are much less pliable, they are more suited for flat surfaces, such as inner panels or rails and styles on shaker doors, rather than curved surfaces or profiles. They do have some flex and as such, they can also be used for edge sanding. The denser foam will generally give a better cut rate since the grain will not recede into the foam nearly as much. It will also allow for a lighter cut than conventional abrasives (sanding sheets or discs), since the foam will absorb any pressure from your fingers or vibrations (from a sander). A closed-cell foam block will allow for a consistent finish, even in hand sanding applications, because it will be thick enough to avoid uneven pressure from different fingers/awkward hand positions.

Sanding style

Uneeda’s abrasive sponges are available for two main types of sanding – hand sanding and orbital sander sanding.

Because sponges will offer a softer finish and lower cut rate than regular sandpaper, these products are typically used in finishing applications, such as preparing a piece for stain or paint, or between layers of coating to improve adherence.

Hand sanding

Abrasive sponges are some of the most popular and effective tools for hand sanding (sanding without the use of an orbital or other power sander) applications. While sanding by hand can be tedious, sometimes it is just what is needed to get the best finish. This is especially true for pieces with complex profiles or carvings, which may be too delicate for a sander. In this case, a hand sponge or a sanding block with foam interface pad and traditional coated abrasives could be a great option to get the finish you want. Another benefit to sanding by hand is that it can be more cost-effective than owning and maintaining power sanders – which would be a benefit for lower-volume shops or hobbyists.

Orbital sander

In addition to hand sanding sponges, Uneeda offers various coated foam abrasives as well as foam accessories for the orbital sander. Using a power sander, like the Ekasand Electric or Pneumatic Orbital Sanders, with foam products is a great option to speed up the sanding process in high-volume shops that produce a lot of cabinet doors or other products with curved profiles. You’ll get smooth and consistent results as well as a great finish. Sometimes using an orbital sander can produce swirl marks, especially a 3×4 sander that doesn’t use a random orbit pattern. However, using a foam interface pad with a conventional disc or sheet abrasive, helps to reduce the vibration, allowing the sander to glide more smoothly across the work surface and minimizing the likelihood of swirls. When done correctly, using coated foam abrasives on a sander creates a better, more consistent finish. Plus, it’s much faster than hand sanding.

Uneeda’s foam abrasives

Uneeda offers a variety of sanding sponges for both types of sanding – by hand and using a sander.

Abrasive	Density	Sandin style and advantages
Uneesponge	Hard	Hand sanding abrasive, ideal for flat surfaces and edges, especially for cleaning wood, metal, plaster, plastic, and fiberglass
Ekadiamond	Soft	Hand sponge that’s colorful and creates a diamond pattern
Filmtek, Ekastorm	Soft	Hand sanding block that provides consistent pressure
Ekasilk Plus	Depends on size	Power sander abrasive with various options, great for stripping, prepping, and finishing as well as for the distressed look
Interference Pads	Soft	Power sander abrasive block with hook and loop on both sides

Elevated sanding options

At Elevated Industrial Solutions, we have a variety of abrasives for every job. Uneeda has unique options, and the Ekasilk is admittedly one of our favorites, but we also carry other abrasives, including options from 3M, Arc, Mirka, Hermes, United Abrasives/Sait, Sia, and VSM. Let us help you get the right product for your sanding jobs.

We also go beyond abrasives and products. Our goal is to be the catalyst for your business to grow. We’ll help you look for efficiencies and to be more effective in your processes.

Comparing Alpha’s PSP-158 polisher to the competition

Written by Christopher Richmann on January 16, 2024. Posted in Countertop, Industrial, Industrial. Leave a Comment

Alpha Professional Tools, one of the leading manufacturers of natural and engineered stone tools, proudly announced the release of its next-generation polisher: PSP-158 high-performance polisher. This polisher comes loaded with features that create superior results, better efficiencies, and a safer working environment.

If you work with stone products, including countertop manufacturing or installation, check out the PSP-158 features and why it’s one of the most versatile, effective, reliable stone polishing tools to ever hit the market.

About the PSP-158 High-Performance Polisher

The PSP-158 provides a high level of power and precision. This innovative polisher comes with numerous features and a variety of accessories that make using the tool convenient and efficient. Here are just a few of the features Alpha lists:

High-performance pneumatic polisher
Powerful motor
30′ kink-free twin-air/water hose
All-weather hoses with flexibility down to -40°F or +140°F (-40°C or +60°C)
Quarter-turn switches for precise control
Central water-feed system to deliver ample water (regardless of position)
No-load RPM- 5,500
Comes in a reusable toolbox, great for carrying your equipment to jobs
Silicon gearhead to cushion and warm hands
One-year warranty; read more

Lightweight and flexible, potentially preventing silica dust

Alpha specializes in ergonomically designed, lightweight tools. Users love the cushion and hand warmer at the same time.

Proper water distribution is critical when working with natural and artificial stone products, as it helps control dust and reduce exposure to harmful contaminants, including silica. With complete control of water, workers experience far less exposure to stone dust which can cause a variety of health issues. With the PSP-158, your team can maintain efficiency while thoroughly controlling dust to create a safe working environment. The tool uses a central feed system that delivers enough water to the workspace, even when the tool is being used in an awkward position.

Alpha has included a variety of accessories that come with the polisher. Included in the package are all-weather hoses that maintain flexibility down to -40 and as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Built to last

This tool is also built to last. Alpha has included a variety of features that help maintain the tool throughout its working lifetime. For example, the tool includes a 3.4 oz. bottle of rust inhibitor oil to prevent rust and costly repairs.

Powerful and saves you time

The PSP-158 has a spindle lock — a key feature that will save money by speeding up production. It enables fabricators and installers to spend more time polishing and less time looking for wrenches to change out their backers or core bits.

Quiet

Our Colorado Alpha representative, Alexander Makin, used to be a fabricator. He swears that it’s “quieter than most polishers on the market.” Not only does it reduce noise pollution for your workforce, you can have a real conversation about four feet away. As most fabricators and installers know, that’s a big deal.

Comparing the PSP-158 to other polishers

No handle design

The PSP-158 uses a no-handle design to create greater maneuverability and control for operators. This helps increase efficiency and makes the polishing tool useful in a variety of applications, including unique angles and workpieces with different shapes. Much of the competition uses C-handle or D-handle designs.

Oil port for maintenance

The PSP-158 has an oil port for maintenance, while many similar tools do not. While products from Diamax have an auto-lube injection, similar products from Pearl, Gison, Flex, Weha, and Hercules do not.

A long list of exclusive features

This tool has many features not found in other products, as well as features that are rare for similar tools. For example, the PSP-158 has a quick connector with a valve, hose, and storage toolbox. Many comparable tools do not have these features or accessories.

Silicon gear head cover included

Another feature that enhances the quality of the PSP-158 is the silicon cover, which protects the gearhead and provides greater longevity. This is the only tool in its category of competitors that provides a silicon gearhead cover.

All these features with same air pressure

Perhaps you assume that the RPMs would become slower for the PSP-158 at 90 PSI. This assumption is false! The tool maintains a no-load at 5,500 RPMs, with the same air pressure provided by comparable tools from Samurai, Flex, Weha, and all other tools in its class.

Best horsepower

Compared to similar products, the Alpha PSP-158 provides the best horsepower. Other products, when the data is provided, are around .32 to .52 hp, while the Alpha PSP-158 high-performance polisher provides .7 hp.

Lighter than many products

While the PSP-158 is not the lightest tool on the market, compared to similar products it’s lighter or only slightly heavier. The PSP-158 has a listed weight of 3.0 pounds. That means it’s easy to handle, even for those big polishing jobs. Many other products weigh as much as a full pound more than the PSP-158.

A full-year warranty

When you spend hundreds of dollars on a single tool, you need to know that it will meet your expectations and last long enough to justify the price. Alpha is demonstrating unsurpassed confidence in the PSP-158 by providing a one-year warranty with certain limitations; read about those limitations. While Flex also provides a one-year warranty, and Weha provides a 360-day warranty, similar tools have warranties of only 90, 60, or 30 days.

Plus, Alpha has a repair facility where you can send your tools even after that year is over.

What does the PSP-158 need to run efficiently?

You must have the right PSI and CFM to run this tool effectively. Air pressure is 90 PSI and the air consumption needed is 21 CFM. If you’re in SE Michigan, western Ohio, or South Carolina, our team can work with your facility manager to ensure you have the proper airflow.

Compare the PSP-158 to other polishers

See how the PSP-158 stacks up against the competition yourself: polishing-tool comparison chart. Watch out, it might just blow you away.

Contact us about the PSP-158 or other countertop gear

At Elevated, we pride ourselves on being a one-stop shop for everything you need to fabricate and install countertops and cabinets. Adhesives, caulks, polishing tools, and more — we have the solutions you need to work more efficiently and effectively.