Machine builder as general contractor

-- Converting Magazine, 3/1/2001

In the process of building Presstek's new coating line, coating machinery supplier Black Clawson Converting Machinery LLC, Fulton, NY, got a chance to showcase not only the features of its coater, but also the company's own skills as general contractor for the entire line. And they certainly raised the bar when it comes to adhering to a customer confidentiality agreement, even code-naming the custom-built machine.

"Presstek had a one-of-a-kind product, and some very technically capable people who knew what they wanted from this new line," said Don Teich, coating machinery business manager. "They also allowed enough time to properly install the line, and to perform qualification runs," adds installations manager Bill Ditzer.

That's not to say the installation didn't present challenges. Between Presstek's building modifications to the area where the line was to be installed, the staggered deliveries of the MEGTEC drying equipment and other ancillary equipment, and integrating all the service contractors such as millwrights, electricians and sheet-metal workers, Black Clawson personnel spent four months at Presstek's facility in Hudson, N.H.

Eventually, the project came together so well that Black Clawson engineers were able to get a chuckle out of the reaction of one staffer, who upon pulling up to Presstek's headquarters blurted out, "Presstek? I thought the customer was (codename)!"