In the world of automotive manufacturing, every detail counts. Vehicle makers strive for efficiency, durability and innovation, and a crucial aspect of this is the quality application of sealants. Hodgson Sealants plays a pivotal role in supporting the automotive industry as partners in process optimisation.
Our sealants can be found in a wide variety of vehicles, such as buses, motorhomes and ambulances. We tailor our products to our customers’ requirements through research, development and application. With safety in mind, Hodgson Sealants do all we can to ensure the best results for our customers. Through line audits, technical support and bespoke product design, we can significantly enhance manufacturing processes and product quality.
The importance of sealants in vehicle manufacturing
Sealants are essential in vehicle manufacturing. They prevent water, dust and any excess noise, which contributes to the longevity and performance of the vehicle. However, the application of sealants is a precise process that requires attention to detail. Any errors can lead to product failures, increased costs and compromised safety.
Identifying and solving inefficiencies
One of the primary ways Hodgson Sealants supports vehicle makers is through comprehensive line audits. An audit is thorough inspection and investigation of the process. Audits provide information on how the process is working and whether it’s delivering satisfactory results, but also by highlighting ways to improve. These audits involve a detailed examination of the sealant application processes on the production line. Here’s how they work:
- Our expert engineers visit the production facility to observe the sealant application process in action. They collect data on application techniques, equipment performance and material usage.
- The collected data is analysed to identify any issues, such as excessive material usage, improper application techniques or equipment malfunctions. The analysis also considers factors like the environmental conditions in the facility, which can affect sealant performance.
- Based on the analysis, we will provide detailed recommendations for improving the process. This could involve adjusting application techniques, upgrading equipment or optimising the production environment.
- We don’t just stop at providing recommendations. We work closely with the manufacturer to implement the suggested changes, ensuring a smooth transition and immediate benefits.
An example of this in action is the work Hodgson Sealants has done with Victory Leisure Homes to improve their process. Through stringent research and development, we replaced less efficient PU adhesives with high-performance products. This meant safer, quicker bonding with less waiting time between processes.
Our HY-SPEC HS50 hybrid sealant was developed to offer Victory a combination of excellent tooling ability and performance adhesion.
We have also worked in close collaboration with Paneltex – one of the UK’s largest refrigerated and specialised commercial vehicle body manufacturers – to conduct a full line audit.
This resulted in developing a combination of HY-SPEC HS50 & HS30, sealants with unparalleled wet grab properties perfect for industrial assembly applications, allowing it to seal and bond quicker. The benefits to Paneltex included a quicker, cleaner and more accurate production process, a significant reduction in the number of SKUs on the Paneltex shop floor and lower manufacturing costs.
Technical support
Technical support is another critical aspect of the partnership between Hodgson Sealants and our customers. This support can take various forms.
- Hodgson Sealants provide training for staff on best practices for sealant application. This ensures that everyone involved is knowledgeable about the latest techniques and standards.
- When issues arise, we offer on-site or remote troubleshooting support. This quick response helps minimise downtime and maintain production schedules.
- Regular consultations help address any new challenges that arise and ensure that the sealant application process remains optimal as technologies and processes evolve.
Tailoring solutions to specific needs
Every vehicle manufacturer has unique needs based on their specific products and processes.
We aim to make our sealants both structurally strong, but also resistant to the most extreme weather conditions. The process begins with a thorough assessment of the vehicle maker’s requirements. This includes understanding the types of vehicles being produced, the materials used and the environmental conditions the vehicles will face. Based on this assessment, our R&D team develops a custom formulation that meets the needs of the vehicle maker.
The bespoke sealant is then rigorously tested to ensure it meets all performance standards. Hodgson Sealants assists with integrating the product into the vehicle maker’s production line, ensuring it is applied correctly and performs as expected. This is done through our audits, Research & Development, and constant consultation.
This collaborative approach ensures that every vehicle leaving the production line is sealed to perfection, offering the strength and comfort that customers expect. But also to ensure we are helping to innovate and continue to offer the most cutting-edge products to help our clients remain at the head of their respective fields.
Due to the complexities of bonding to ever-changing surfaces we are constantly testing and evaluating our formulations. We also work with manufacturers at the design stage of their builds to identify problem substrates and increase efficiencies. We are pleased to offer this consultation as a standard service to our customers, highlighting our dedication to enhancing their experience.
