Steel is not about to disappear anytime soon as the dominant material used in the home appliance industry. Unlike automakers, which are turning to aluminum, carbon-fiber composites, magnesium, plastic and other lightweight materials, steel still rules in the world of refrigerators, dishwashers and dryers.
MIAMI, FL—U.S. manufacturers are targeting an aggressive 1.5 percent reduction in cost of goods sold for 2013 in an effort to drive margin growth, according to a new study from The Hackett Group Inc.
Regardless of their location or industry, manufacturers are demanding more from leak test equipment than ever before. Tough economic times and increased competition require companies to use equipment that not only provides accuracy and repeatability, but accommodates a wider variety of parts.
In April, electronics assembler Mack Technologies completed work on a substantial installation of money-saving technology at its factory in Westford, MA. The company didn’t get a new paste printer, reflow oven or pick-and-place machine. In fact, the plant’s slick new technology had nothing to do with assembly.
DAYTON, TN—Goodman Manufacturing, a manufacturer of air conditioning and heating equipment, will invest $2 million to expand its assembly plant here, with plans to create 200 jobs.
WASHINGTON—Seven of the top 10 highest-paid college degrees are in engineering, according to a report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers.
NEW BERN, NC—BSH Home Appliance Corp. has reopened its dishwasher assembly plant here, after investing $50 million to upgrade the facility. The company has recalled 100 workers who were laid off for the renovation.