Monmouth Rubber and Plastics recently completed a major expansion and upgrade at its Long Branch, N.J., plant with energy-saving measures to improve productivity.
The maker of neoprene sponge and foam as well as other closed-cell rubber and plastic materials expects the efficiency improvements to benefit its customers through increased product quality and lower production costs.
The expansion includes a new equipment line, consisting of state-of-the-art mixers and presses, along with data monitoring of all processes. New electrical lighting throughout the facility should lower the company’s electric bills while improving visibility throughout the plant, which the company anticipates will increase worker morale and, subsequently, efficiency and quality.
“Monmouth is going state-of-the-art with efficiency on a global scale,” said company founder and general manager John M. Bonforte.
The company undertook the project with assistance from the New Jersey Clean Energy Program, which offers financial incentives for commercial, industrial and government customers to integrate energy efficient and renewable technologies into new construction and upgrades.
The neoprene foam manufacturer also enrolled in an emergency demand response program, in which Monmouth Rubber and Plastics agreed to reduce its electric power consumption on demand during critical periods to help avoid local and regional power outages.
“Our participation in this program contributes to the overall protection of the power grid and helps avoid additional utility costs and lost revenues for all consumers and businesses in our community,” Bonforte said.
For more information, visit www.rubberplastics.com.
