ABOVE: Printing its own end of arm tooling was a natural progression from creating its own jigs and fixtures in 3D print ALL IMAGES: RUTLAND PLASTICS
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Rutland Plastics has undergone a high-impact business transformation over the past two decades. The results are reflected in its strong partnerships with customers and the groaning shelves of its trophy cabinet. Jonny Williamson reports
BREAKING THE MOULD
T
he process of plastic injection moulding has largely gone unchanged in 100 years. Molten plastic is forced under pressure to fill a mould cavity where it cools, hardens and is then released. What has changed is the efficiency of modern machines, the power of software and the importance of environmental stewardship.
The firm succeeding through continuous improvement
Combine all three and you can understand why Rutland Plastics was named Processor of the Year at the Plastics Industry Awards (PIA) 2021. As the judges noted, they were looking for a company demonstrating exceptional business growth, technological innovation, people development, manufacturing efficiency, customer relations and environmental concerns.
The custom plastic injection moulder was also a finalist in the PIA’s COVID-19 Business Hero category and won a similar award earlier that year from the Made in Group. It was an easy decision for Rutland Plastics to support the local and national response, having been part of the East Midlands community for more than 65 years.