Dana Corporation Utilizes New Chrome Plating Technology For Environmentally-Friendly Piston Ring Production
Feb 25, 1999
TOLEDO, Ohio, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Dana Corporation (NYSE: DCN) has combined an efficiency improvement with a reduction in emissions, by implementing a new process for chrome plating piston rings. Dana's Perfect Circle Division, one of the world's largest manufacturers of piston rings, has modernized its facilities in Muskegon and St. Johns, Mich., with technology that will help reduce the hazardous emissions and energy consumption involved in the chrome-plating process. To create the highly durable chrome finish on its piston rings, the Perfect Circle Division utilizes high-capacity, hard-chrome plating tanks. To diminish any adverse effects this process could have on the environment, the Muskegon and St. Johns plants are newly equipped with state-of-the-art exhaust and control equipment. This unique equipment is improving the nature and control of tank emissions by providing a closed-loop operation. This has allowed the Perfect Circle Division to reduce electrical consumption and make-up air heating costs, as well as the size of exhaust and control equipment, and the number of exhaust stacks that must be tested. In fact, the new equipment has reduced the air required to run the chrome-plating system by 65 percent. The system provides unobstructed access to internal components by utilizing partial tank covers and fully integrated process-control systems that utilize high-efficiency particulate arresting (HEPA) and composite mesh pad (CMP) dry scrubbers. This system also uses a new tank cooling system, combined with a segmented tank cover, to help keep the dry system at the correct operating temperature. This creates a highly efficient, environmentally friendly, cost-effective system. "The immediate benefits are cleaner air, real savings in energy consumed, and a healthier working environment," said Al Honey, senior chemical engineer for Perfect Circle's facility in Muskegon. "Our state-of-the-art equipment is so effective, we will be meeting environmental and safety requirements well into the next century," said Dan Moody, vice president of Engine Products for Dana's Engine Systems Group. "By having more productive and efficient facilities, we are well prepared for the future, which ultimately benefits our customers." Dana Engine Systems Group provides components, modules, and complete systems solutions to engine builders worldwide. The group's product lines include Victor Reinz(R) gaskets and sealing products, Perfect Circle(R) piston rings and engine parts, Glacier Vandervell(TM) engine bearings, fluid system products and Plumley powertrain components. One of the world's largest independent suppliers to vehicle manufacturers and related aftermarkets, Dana Corporation produces components and systems used on more than 95 percent of the world's 700 million motor vehicles. Founded in 1904 and based in Toledo, Ohio, the company operates some 330 major facilities in 32 countries and employs more than 86,000 people. Dana reported sales of $12.5 billion in 1998. Dana's Internet address is www.dana.com. SOURCE Dana Corporation Web site: http: //www.dana.com CONTACT: Chuck Van Rens of Dana, 419-891-2021