U.S. Rep. Esty tours Peter Paul Electronics in New Britain
Tuesday, April 2, 2013 11:00 PM EDT

By SCOTT WHIPPLE
STAFF WRITER

NEW BRITAIN — Zach Perkins, a CNC operator for Peter Paul Electronics, is the kind of young manufacturing worker
Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty, if she had the power, would like to replicate.

Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Esty, D-5th District, completed her tours to manufacturers in her district with a visit to Peter Paul
Electronics on John Downey Drive. A premier manufacturer of solenoid valves used in a diverse array of industries,
Peter Paul’s worldwide markets include energy, medical, pharmaceutical, bio-tech, industrial automation, automotive,
food, construction, infrastructure and agricultural. The company, founded by the Mangiafico family, employs nearly 150
people in its city headquarters.

During a plant tour in which Peter Paul executives showcased the benefits of its lean manufacturing process, Esty
chatted with machine operators, including Perkins. He showed her how he takes raw material and turns it into a finished
product.

“We can do everything in one shot,” he told Esty. “It’s faster and there isn’t a lot of product sitting around.”
A sophomore at Central Connecticut State University, Perkins is studying manufacturing and engineering.
Esty said on her tour she has been answering questions about sequestration and observing what manufacturers in her
district are working on.

“I’m very interested in the work-force development challenges we face here in central Connecticut,” Esty said,
“especially the partnerships companies are engaged in like Peter Paul with CCSU.

Esty praised Peter Paul for “recruiting people like Zach [Perkins], training them and empowering them to look for ways to
improve their products and processes. Observing these practices enable me to be more effective in Washington,
advancing federal policies that are supportive of companies like Peter Paul.”

Two weeks ago, Esty voted for a budget that focuses on critical manufacturing allocations for research and
development, energy efficiency, clean energy and advanced manufacturing technologies.

In February, Esty began her series of tours by visiting Jonal Laboratories, Inc. in Meriden and Ward Leonard Electric Co,
Inc. in Thomaston.

U.S. Rep. Esty tours Peter Paul Electronics in New Britain – The New Britain Herald
http://newbritainherald.com/articles/2013/04/03/news/doc515b9a45d7649099632097.prt
4/3/2013

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013 11:16 PM EST
By SCOTT WHIPPLE
STAFF WRITER
HARTFORD — Area manufacturers told state legislators that there is consensus that manufacturing as a profession has changed, that it’s more respectable, clean and requires more sophisticated skills during a roundtable discussion at Wednesday’s Connecticut Business Day at the state Capitol.

The session, held during the annual event sponsored by the Connecticut Business & Industry Association and the Connecticut Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives, centered mainly on state-sponsored training programs and the need to change a negative perception of manufacturing.

Michael Mangiafico II, vice president of New Britain-based Peter Paul Electronics, said his company recently negotiated a large loan and grant from the state to modernize its equipment.

Peter Paul manufactures quality, high-performance solenoid valves.
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“We’re now coming out with new products so we can capitalize on where technology is headed,” he said.

Cindy Scoville, of the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce, cited a need among spring companies in Bristol to get positive news out about manufacturing.

“Manufacturing is a great career opportunity,” she said, and added that NESMA (New England Spring and Metal Stamping Association) has adopted the Bristol Technical School System. “But, with no marketing dollars to entice young people to attend the school, it’s a problem. However, our chamber is trying to help them out.”

Rick Mullins, executive assistant to President Jack Miller of Central Connecticut State University and managing director of CCSU’s Institute of Technology & Business Development, had positive comments for the governor’s Small Business Express program. (Last fall, the General Assembly expanded the definition of “small business” from 50 to 100 employees, making more businesses eligible for state-funded business loans and grants.)

“The program provided opportunities for small business in an aggressive and meaningful way,” said Mullins. “There’s still work to be done. We’re seeing about a thousand jobs a month, but we need to be closer to two thousand to meet the anticipated recovery from the recession. Despite the issues of fiscal cliff and the uncertainty of health care, university students seem to be getting more interviews with manufacturers. I think with modest growth, the state’s economy is working its way back.”

Mullins added that more money needs to be invested in customized training programs.

“For example, we’re working closely with CL&P and UI with the PRIME program; it helps companies improve their productivity. If we get a company’s kilowatt hours down below 500 this will open the door to many smaller companies.” (PRIME stands for Process Re-engineering for Increased Manufacturing Efficiency.)

State Rep. Betty Boukus, D-Plainville, told manufacturers not to be intimidated by “all these programs with acronyms. Just call the Department of Economic and Community Development. They’re quick to respond. No company is too small to ask for help.”

Mary Lee Weber of Design Digital, Glastonbury, said she is developing a television show that will reveal the innovative side of manufacturing.

“I want to educate the public on the real nature of manufacturing jobs,” she said.

Scott Whipple can be reached at (860) 225-4601, ext. 319, or swhipple@newbritainherald.com.

Originally Posted at:http://www.newbritainherald.com/articles/2013/03/06/news/doc51380f61f04e9182633483.txt

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Date: Thursday, February 21, 2013
Time: 2:00pm EST / 11:00am PST

Billions of solenoid valves are used worldwide to control countless hydraulic, pneumatic, and fluid-control applications. The valves themselves come in hundreds of different types and styles from scores of manufacturers, so choosing the right one can be a headache for engineers.

This Webinar, presented by PeterPaul, a leader in the solenoid-valve industry, will explain key attributes of the valves, demonstrate how to sort out differences, and show how to select the best product for an application and/or industry. Topics range from performance issues like maximum operating pressure differential to manufacturing techniques, Kanban, and passivation, as well as testing and certification. Learn what makes one valve operate efficiently for the life of an application while others require more power and suffer premature failure. A Q&A session will follow the presentation.

View this Free Solenoid Valves Webinar (no longer live) >>

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Thank you for choosing Peter Paul Electronics.

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Blood from a Stone

CCAT know-how optimizes machining, nets savings for PeterPaul Electronics

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — Even with the sophisticated, advanced manufacturing equipment in use today, there’s still room to improve performance. PeterPaul Electronics in New Britain discovered the difference when Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, Inc. (CCAT) used advanced technology optimization to improve performance on two milling operations and achieved a 72 percent reduction in cycle time.

“We have limited time and resources to conduct optimization studies internally,” commented Stewart Barnhart, director of manufacturing technology at PeterPaul. “CCAT was able to analyze machining of an aluminium part and suggested using new Sandvik tooling and revisions to the machining process. Testing of the new process was first done at CCAT’s Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC) in East Hartford, allowing us to continue production without interruption. After the process was proven at the AMC, we then utilized it on our machine with outstanding success. ”

According to Barnhart, this technology optimization resulted in substantial boosts in productivity and manufacturing capacity – without incurring costly downtime or capital investment. He expects to continue to to use this strategy for other machining projects. “We are looking at equipment currently at CCAT so that we can test processes and tooling offline before trying to integrate any new technology at PeterPaul.”

The strategy to focus on enhancing operations and increasing productivity through boosting the output of existing manufacturing machines makes sense in today’s uncertain economic climate. “Process optimization is an approach that protects companies from the risks inherent in large capital outlays while making them more immediately competitive in an increasingly high tech global market,” said Bob Torrani, director, manufacturing & supply chain initiative, CCAT.

Stated Barnhart, “We have so many different types and sizes of parts, CCAT is an excellent resource for looking at all of our needs. We’re very comfortable now in coming back to CCAT for more optimization work. CCAT has an excellent range of knowledge and technology. Any company would be foolish not to take advantage of it.”

CCAT process optimization resulted in significant cycle time reductions in machining aluminum parts for PeterPaul Electronics — 86 percent for a deep pocket and 34 percent for stepped pockets.

ABOUT CCAT

The Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, Inc. (CCAT), headquartered in East Hartford, Conn., is a unique economic development organization that combines expertise in cutting-edge manufacturing technology with specialized centers of excellence in education, workforce strategy and alternative energy solutions to help organizations increase efficiencies, improve workforce development and boost competitiveness. CCAT promotes partnerships between industry, academia and government to create a new collaborative framework for tackling 21st century economic challenges.

ABOUT PETERPAUL ELECTRONICS

PeterPaul Electronics, founded in 1947, is a premier manufacturer of solenoid valves including high flow, explosion proof, high pressure, plastic, safety and mini valves. PeterPaul configures possibilities from solenoid valves that operate with power as low as 1/2 watt to pressure as high as 5000 psi. PeterPaul is located in New Britain, Connecticut and Fajardo, Puerto Rico. High quality design, innovative research and product development set PeterPaul apart from other manufacturers. Continuous improvement is in the fabric of the company on all levels with people having years of experience, dedication and pride.

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Peter Paul Electronics proud to announce ISO 9001 certification.

Peter Paul started formally implementing ISO 9001 Certification in Y2005. Over a 5-1/2 year span, the companies operating processes were documented, and modified where necessary, to not only comply with ISO 9001 certification requirements, but to establish a robust Quality Management System (QMS). Importance was placed on efficiency and effective quality management system rather than have a certificate on the wall, so seeking ISO 9001 certification was secondary.

The Peter Paul senior management team and the Mangiafico family supported the effort over the five and a half years. The “system” was implemented essentially in the background, invisible to the plant personnel. Internal audits were performed, and improvements made. One key element in the implementation, was to marry the QMS to the Lean Transformation and 5S methodology Peter Paul was also implementing during the same period of time. The QMS documents the standard work developed using 5S methodology. The QMS is an integral part of the transformation instead of a standalone system and some companies choose.

A very tangible benefit of documenting the processes is that 1) processes are standardized, and 2) new personnel can be trained to the same standard process instead of relying on people’s memory and “tribal knowledge.” Review of the QMS was also integrated into company strategic planning and the progress reviewed.

The ISO 9001 Certification standard requires 6 processes
that must be documented and controlled:
• Document Control
• Control of Quality Records
• Competence, Training and Awareness
• Control of Nonconforming Product
• Corrective Action
• Preventive Action

The training and education piece is important to achieve buy-in of all team members. A training presentation will now become part of the new employee orientation process. Training and training effectiveness are two key components that will be audited on each year. Peter Paul is in the process of developing an annual training plan plant-wide.

Approximately 25% of the employee population has been at the company in excess of ten years. To learn new tools and make significant changes to how tenured employees approach their work is commendable. And happily employees are actually more satisfied since this effort. Peter Paul not only monitors internal metrics, but maintains a very comprehensive data driven process for analyzing customer returns to provide further process and product improvements. Suppliers are also monitored for performance in Quality, On-time Delivery and Responsiveness to Peter Paul needs.

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“From Humble beginnings on Whiting Street to their 77,000 square foot facility on John Downey Drive, PeterPaul continues to move forward in technology & customer service. It has embraced the newest technology certifications, is continually rated as a company that is committed to personal attention, high service and quality that ensures continuous innovation and rapid response.

The Company is and has been actively involved with the City of New Britain, CCSU, the Hartford Job Corps, Capital Workforce Partners, Connecticut Center for Technology and recently established PeterPaul University, a program within the facility that promotes further training of employees to bring their skills to the 21st century technology.

This past spring, PeterPaul with assistance from the City of New Britain and the State of Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development announced an investment that will enable the company to improve its product line and create new jobs over the next five years.”

ABOUT PETERPAUL
Peter Paul Electronics, founded in 1947, is a premier manufacturer of solenoid valves including high flow, explosion proof, high pressure, plastic, safety and mini valves. PeterPaul configures possibilities from solenoid valves that operate with power as low as 1/2 watt to pressure as high as 5000 psi. PeterPaul is located in New Britain, Connecticut and Fajardo, Puerto Rico. High quality design, innovative research and product development set PeterPaul apart from other manufactures. Continuous improvement is in the fabric of the company on all levels with people having years of experience, dedication and pride.

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On July 14, 2010 Michael Mangiafico Sr. passed. He will be remembered forever as a dedicated son, husband, Father, Grandfather and Puerto Rican business leader. The Family is committed to succeeding the business. Virginia Mangiafico and sons Michael and Kevin worked closely with Governor Luis Fortuno and Fajardo Mayor Anibal Melendez Rivera to expand the facility once again in 2012. The City of Fajardo remembered Michael Sr. on October 22 with the dedication of Avenida Michael Mangiafico where the Peter Paul facility is located.

The people of Puerto Rico should know that major components of the best solenoid valves in the world are manufactured by Puerto Rican hands right here in Fajardo, Puerto Rico.

It is with great pleasure that the Mangiafico Family and employees of Peter Paul made a generous donation to the Salon del Ninos at the Biblioteca Digital del Fajardo on September 13, 2012.

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When you see the CSA mark, do what millions of others do every day-proceed with confidence!

Here’s why:

• CSA Certified marks mean a product has been tested and meets applicable standards for safety and/or performance, including the applicable standards written or administered by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA), National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), and others.
• CSA is a North American leader in product certification, with a respected history dating back to 1919.
• CSA International is accredited in the U.S. by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), and in Canada by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC).
• CSA works closely with the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI), the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), Health Canada, provincial regulators, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to promote standards for consumer safety in North America and around the world.
• Thousands of companies rely on CSA International for product testing for the U.S. and Canada-including American Water Heater, Apple, CFM Majestic, Delta Faucet, GE, Hewlett-Packard, Hubbell Lighting, Hobart, IBM, Intermatic, Lennox Industries, Mitsubishi, Moen, Sanyo, Whirlpool, Wirsbo, and others.
• CSA field representatives conduct more than 50,000 factory visits each year, worldwide, to ensure that CSA-certified products continue to meet the applicable standards.
• CSA marks are accepted by inspectors in the occupation health and safety, electrical, gas, building, plumbing and many other fields in the U.S.and Canada.
• Major retail chains carry a multitude of products bearing the CSA marks-including Best-Buy, Wal-Mart, Canadian Tire, The Home Depot, JCPenney, RadioShack, Sears, Spiegel, and many others.

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