Graham Magnetics, Inc.

Year Submitted: 2003

Process: Mixing

Industry: Electronics Manufacturing

Wastes Reduced: VOC Emissions

Location: Graham TX

No. of employees: 420

Contact: Alan Johnson

Phone: (817) 549-4500

Description:

During the preparation of coating slurries for magnetic tapes, magnetic particles, solvents, resins, and additives are combined in a milling operation to prepare a mixture with the consistency of paint for coating on a plastic film The only significant purpose that the solvent serves is to fluidize the remaining materials. Any decrease in the amount of solvent used per batch will translate into lower air emissions and reduced operating costs.

P2 Application:

Several proprietary innovations in coating and milling technology had to occur for this reduction in solvent to take place without a reduction in product quality.

Environmental Benefits:

This project has reduced the amount of solvent used in the production of reel to reel tape. In 1993, the total solvent requirement was reduced by an average of 59 gallons per mill, which results in a source reduction of about 100,000 pounds of solvent during the six months that the project operated. The reduced amount of solvent used resulted in a reduction of air emissions, hazardous material handling, and waste handling.

Details of Reductions

Additional Information :

In 1993, the project reduced solvent costs by $20,000-$30,000, with no capital expense and no reduction in production rate or quality. We expect this project to continue to save several thousand dollars per month with no additional operating expenses.

Source: TCEQ