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Business Talk: Manufacturing Moves From Coherix, Emerson, SEW-EURODRIVE, and More
Business Talk is a recurring round-up where each installment tracks the latest manufacturing business developments and strategic moves within the industry.
Coherix Launches Subscription Service to Maintain Robotic Adhesive Systems
Move: Coherix introduces Coherix CARES, an industry-first subscription program for robotic adhesive dispensing systems in automotive and electronics manufacturing.
Details: The annual plan provides training, technical assistance, on-site support, software updates, analytics, and process optimization for complex adhesive and sealant systems. Subscriptions range from $50,000 to $200,000 per year, with the goal of cutting scrap, rework, and downtime while improving quality and cycle times. A major Japanese automaker in the U.S. has already signed up, and global rollout is planned through 2026.
Insight: The new service expands Coherix's business model beyond equipment sales to recurring revenue and closer customer partnerships. The company expects 15% of its customer base to adopt the program and plans to triple the size of its U.S. service team to meet demand. The company currently provides 51 carmakers and 75 Tier One auto suppliers with more than 5,000 industry-leading 3D laser-based inspection systems worldwide.
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Emerson South Milwaukee Foundry Wins DOE Award for Major Energy Savings
Move: Emerson's South Milwaukee foundry has received the 2025 Better Project Award from the U.S. Department of Energy for cutting natural gas use by 20% through an innovative building management system.
Details: The foundry, which produces Appleton electrical fittings and enclosures, was one of the largest energy-consuming sites in Emerson's portfolio. By installing a new BMS to optimize comfort heating and cooling, the plant reduced natural gas consumption by nearly 13,000 MMBtu and lowered overall energy use by 10%, saving $127,000 annually. The system minimizes overheating from radiant heat, adjusts setpoints outside of operational hours, and achieves payback in under a year.
Insight: The Better Project Award is part of the DOE's Better Plants Program, which partners with leading U.S. manufacturers to set and achieve ambitious energy and emissions goals. Emerson's recognition highlights its ongoing investments in energy efficiency across its operations. The company says the success of the South Milwaukee project demonstrates how similar smart building systems can be scaled across other high-energy sites to further reduce costs and emissions as part of Emerson's wider sustainability commitments.
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SEW‑EURODRIVE USA Cuts Lead Times for P2.e Planetary Gear Units to 6 Weeks
Move: SEW‑EURODRIVE USA has expanded its U.S. manufacturing capabilities to locally assemble its advanced P2.e planetary gear units, slashing delivery times for heavy industry customers.
Details: The P2.e series, known for delivering high torque in a compact footprint, is now available in standard 2-stage and 3-stage cataloged ratios within just 6 weeks and in about 12 weeks for non-stocked configurations. The new domestic assembly line in Wellford, South Carolina, supports bulk material handling, metals, pulp and paper, oil & gas, and other heavy-duty applications with faster turnaround and local engineering support.
Insight: By moving P2.e assembly closer to U.S. customers, SEW‑EURODRIVE is strengthening its commitment to flexible, reliable drive solutions with reduced lead times, streamlined logistics, and enhanced support for North American industries that rely on high-performance planetary gear technology.
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Quartzene Material Gains Ground in EV Batteries and Coatings
Move: Svenska Aerogel secured two major orders this spring—one from a North American thermal insulation manufacturer for 2.6 tons of Quartzene, and another from its French distributor, Novcoat, supporting demand from new and existing cool roof manufacturers. In parallel, Dekro Paints in South Africa is advancing certification tests for an intumescent paint system enhanced with Quartzene.
Details: Quartzene is a synthetic silica powder material used as a functional additive to boost insulation, reduce weight, and improve safety. Current development projects include using Quartzene as a thermal barrier in next-generation EV batteries and in a new thermal insulation coating for traditional stone buildings developed by a leading Italian paint producer. Additional clients are now testing similar building applications.
Insight: Svenska Aerogel's advanced thermal barrier material is gaining wider traction across industries and geographies, as more manufacturers explore its potential for energy efficiency and safety improvements.
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Sunshine Enclosures Launches Domestic Mylar Pouch Manufacturing to Boost U.S. Packaging Speed and Quality
Move: Sunshine Enclosures launches domestic Mylar pouch manufacturing capabilities at its Colorado facility.
Details: Sunshine Enclosures, a leading premium packaging supplier, has officially brought Mylar bag production in-house and onshore. By manufacturing Mylar pouches domestically, the company aims to cut lead times, enhance quality control, and respond faster to customer demands across North America. The new production line supports diverse industries—food, nutraceuticals, pet products, and more—offering advanced printing, custom formats, and high-performance barrier materials.
Insight: This strategic expansion aligns with the industry trend toward reshoring and supply chain resilience. Sunshine Enclosures' investment in U.S.-based manufacturing reinforces its commitment to speed, quality, and American-made solutions. Beyond Mylar pouches, the company continues to expand its domestic capabilities with custom carding, labels, stickers, and automated packaging applications, backed by in-house design services and a goal to remain a trusted partner for brands demanding premium packaging with faster turnaround.
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