American Seating, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Bus Seat Manufacturer in Michigan Encloses Powder Coating Process

56'6" x 58'2" - 16 Foot tall enclosure in existing plant.

Adaptable to current floor, ceiling and surroundings with unique "key holes" that still keep the room from spraying powder into plant and can accommodate its own HVAC systems.

The Situation
American Seating, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a world class manufacturing facility. Recently American Seating relocated their Transportation Products Group to a new plant and needed and environmentally controlled application room to enclose their powder coating process. It was important to maintain temperature and low contamination conditions within the room while preventing dust particles and other contaminants from entering.

To further complicate the requirements, various size "key holes" had to be installed to provide equipment, conveyor, and part access without changing the basic needs, which include a self contained HVAC system. The enclosure had to be specifically designed and built to maintain positive pressure even with the open "key holes".

The Evaluation
American Seating needed a custom deigned powder coating room that would not interfere with existing processes. The project required 16 foot ceilings to accommodate large equipment, and a professional exterior to reflect American Seating's world class manufacturing philosophy. Project requirements included ease of installation, minimal plant disruption, and flexibility of design for future modifications.

The construction required ceiling anchoring to eliminate interior columns, maximizing usable space. The 16 foot wall system needed to provide a world-class appearance, insulate the room from inner plant temperature fluctuations, and accommodate existing floor contours. Quite a challenge existed.

The Solution
As part of the American Seating AS2000 (Transportation Division) relocation project, it was Colin Cronin's (Mgr. Mfg. Eng.) responsibility to design and install a new world class powder coating system within the confines of the proposed plant layout. In order to support current and future manufacturing needs, the entire system had to be functional and flexible to allow for future modifications.

American Seating sought the expertise of PortaFab to design and construct a modular enclosure to their specifications. The solution proved to be a PortaFab modular enclosure with a ceiling that is supported from above. The building has access for large equipment plus personnel, as well as custom cut-outs for conveyors and parts on the paint lines. The "key holes" allow the entire process to function.

The flexibility of modular construction worked perfectly for their requirements, and easily fulfilled their needs. Mr. Cronin further stated that the entire process was installed correctly and on a timely basis.

Modular Buildings to Fit Specialized Needs
When planning in-plant buildings that require maximum flexibility, the PortaFab modular systems are an excellent choice. They can accommodate virtually any design and are easily modified for relocation and additions. Because PortaFab's wall systems are non-progressive, modifications are quick and can be done without reassembling the entire unit.