TRITEGRITY MACHINE: Cobot Technology Drives Diversification & Expansion
While expansion into new markets is still a work in progress, the process to acquire and deploy the new cobot was easier than I expected with the help of partners like the MMTC, MEDC, MGA and SBDC.
-- Neil Balduc, Owner
Tritegrity Machine (www.tritegritymachine.com) is a family-owned machining and fabrication company specializing in high-precision machining. Founded by Neil Balduc in 2019, Tritegrity Machine makes parts for companies in the robotic, OEM replacement, oil and gas extraction, electronic, mold component, and automotive industries throughout the country. By 2022, the four-person company was creating high skilled and high paying jobs in the rural community of Ironwood, Mich.
Challenge
Tritegrity Machine was focused on growing its business. The company wanted to reduce the reliance on one large customer by diversifying its client base. Owner Neil Balduc contacted Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC) to discuss technology solutions to increase production capacity and acquire new customers.
Solution
MMTC staff conducted an Industry 4.0 Technology Opportunity Assessment and recommended implementing a machine tending cobotic work cell for high-volume, low-mix parts. This would allow for skilled staff to focus on high-value, low-volume, and high-mix parts. Using this recommendation, Tritegrity applied for a Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Industry 4.0 Technology Implementation Grant. With help from the Manufacturing Growth Alliance (MGA), the company received $25,000 in matching funds to support the purchase of a cobot for machine tending. Additionally, MMTC’s assessment team identified opportunities to improve financial tracking and I.T. security by working with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
Results
- Doubled revenue from $500,000 to $1,000,000
- New Employees: 5
- New Investment: $25,000