Engineered Seals & Components, L.L.C. (ESC), a precision parts company in Davenport, Iowa, is working with CIRAS and automation partner Direct Automation to develop a new machine for cutting large seals more efficiently. The solution will improve consistency, reduce manual labor, and lower safety risks.
Company Overview
Engineered Seals & Components, L.L.C. (ESC) is a family-owned company based in Davenport, Iowa, with 12 employees. Since 2006, the company has specialized in supplying seals, gaskets, and molded rubber components for agricultural, construction, and industrial equipment. ESC is known for precision manufacturing, customer responsiveness, and long-term client relationships.
Situation
In ESC’s manufacturing process, seals are molded, cut into rings, and then slit so they can be installed. For small- and medium-sized seals, ESC used a machine that cuts the rings automatically. However, large seals didn’t fit in the machine and had to be cut by hand—an inefficient and inconsistent process that posed ergonomic and safety risks.
ESC wanted a custom solution to automate cutting for larger seals but didn’t know where to begin.
Solution
ESC reached out to the CIRAS smart manufacturing team for guidance. CIRAS helped clarify the company’s needs and connected ESC with vetted engineering partners. The team also provided budgetary guidance to help the company plan confidently.
Through this process, ESC partnered with Direct Automation to design a custom machine that could cut larger seals safely and automatically.
“CIRAS helped us identify what we really needed and connected us with the right partner to make it happen,” said Bryan Lair, plant manager at ESC. “We’re excited to improve both efficiency and consistency in our process.”
Results
ESC is now working with Direct Automation to build and implement the custom equipment. The new machine will reduce manual labor, improve quality, and enhance safety—allowing the company to meet customer needs more efficiently and reliably.
CIRAS helps Iowa companies like ESC take practical, low-risk steps toward automation. By providing trusted advice and vetted connections, CIRAS makes it easier for manufacturers to modernize operations and build long-term value.
Contact Andrew Friend to learn more