Tailored Solutions for Unique Needs: Why Private Label with Copps

At Copps Industries, we pride ourselves on offering customized solutions to address your challenges and meet your needs. One of the most exciting aspects of our work is developing private label solutions, a process that involves close collaboration to create epoxy formulations specifically tailored to your processes. 

Here, we’re taking a peek behind the curtain with our R&D experts and giving you an in-depth look at the steps involved in developing a private label solution with Copps.

From Exploration to Excellence: 7 Steps to Your Private Label Solution

Our approach is akin to having a virtual chemist on your team. We work closely with you to ensure every aspect of the epoxy solution we develop aligns with your specific needs. Our approach brings our experts into close collaboration with you so the formulation fits seamlessly into your production processes, enhances efficiency, and minimizes costs.

Step 1: Understanding Your Needs

Our process begins with exploration. We start by discussing what you like about your existing epoxy and what improvements you need. Through a detailed consultation, our experts listen to your challenges and goals, gathering all the input they need to begin developing a custom formulation.

Step 2: Conceptualizing the Solution

Once we have a clear understanding of your needs and challenges, we move on to conceptualizing the solution. Our R&D team and chemists brainstorm and design an epoxy formulation from scratch for you. 

Step 3: Formulating the Epoxy

After conceptualization, our chemists get to work in the lab to create the initial formulation. Using our expert knowledge and advanced techniques and equipment, we develop a prototype that meets your specified requirements. This stage may involve a few iterations to fine-tune the product, refining our exploration into the right solution.

Step 4: Trial and Testing

With the prototype ready, we proceed to the test phase. We thoroughly test the formulated epoxy to evaluate the product in our lab. This stage is critical as it ensures the final product will integrate seamlessly with your existing manufacturing processes, paving the way for excellence.

Step 5: Verifying and Validating

When we feel confident in the solution we’ve developed, we provide you with the formulated epoxy for testing in your production environment. This is where you get to assess the real-world application of our product and provide feedback. That feedback will help us ensure the epoxy performs as expected and meets your standards.

Step 6: Refining Based on Feedback

Based on the feedback from our lab tests and your trials, we might return to the lab to refine the formulation. Continuous exploration leads to excellence, and our goal is to deliver a solution that exceeds your expectations. 

Step 7: Finalizing the Product and Partnership

Once the formulation is validated and refined, we move into full-scale production. At this stage, you can confidently integrate our customized epoxy into your manufacturing processes. But our commitment doesn’t end here; in fact, we’re just getting started. Copps Industries aims to be your partner for the long run, offering continuous support and further innovation as needed. 

Innovation Through Partnership

Some suppliers dictate how you should use their products. At Copps Industries, we believe in innovation through partnership. We ask, “What do you need the epoxy to do?” This question, directed at engineers instead of chemists, allows us to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Once we’ve created a solution tailored to your unique needs, you won’t need to shop around—our commitment to a long-term partnership ensures you have a reliable, innovative partner by your side.

We’re also transparent about the feasibility of solutions. Sometimes, initial paper chemistry reveals that we can’t achieve a customer’s objectives. If we’re unable to meet your requirements due to health, safety, or cost concerns, we’ll be upfront about that. This honesty ensures our partnerships are built on trust and mutual respect.

Innovation with Copps Industries

At Copps Industries, we’re always eager to innovate unique private label solutions. By thinking differently and collaborating closely with our customers, we develop products that exceed expectations and set a new standard for excellence. Our approach fits various markets, allowing us to adapt formulations to any client’s specific needs.

Choosing Copps Industries for your private label epoxy solutions means partnering with a team dedicated to innovation, efficiency, and long-term success. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals with tailored epoxy solutions.

SBTi: Reinforcing Our Environmental Commitment

SBTi: Reinforcing Our Environmental Commitment

At Copps Industries, we take our commitment to the environment, our community, and our customers seriously. In 2023, we took an extra step to reinforce our commitment to sustainability by joining the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). 

SBTi plays a crucial role in mobilizing the private sector to contribute to global climate goals and transition towards a low-carbon economy. The initiative offers companies a clear roadmap for sustainable growth by determining the amount and speed of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

What Are ‘Science-Based Targets’?

Proper organization and project management initiatives can help companies zero in on social and environmental goals as part of their ESG efforts. Science-based targets, in particular, are used to denote the specific goals—and pathways to achieving those goals—that companies will use to curb greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. 

The Science-Based Targets initiative is a framework that provides a clear series of steps for companies to ensure a sufficient reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The framework uses scientific knowledge and a deep understanding of greenhouse gases to design specific, actionable goals. A goal meets the science-based definition if it aligns with the scientific evidence in the Paris Agreement, an international treaty focused on climate change and efforts to curtail or reverse negative environmental changes. 

While many organizations are motivated to reduce their climate impact and have made strides in this direction, a clear framework and widespread initiative can make the efforts more effective. To achieve real change, we all must work together on a large scale. Ambitious, scientifically-backed goals lay the groundwork for worldwide transformation.

Driving Responsible Climate Action

Companies that commit to SBTi targets are seen as leaders in sustainability and climate action. 

There are many benefits of participating in SBTi:

• Transparency and accountability: Setting science-based targets allows a company to affirm its commitment to sustainability and provides a transparent framework for reporting progress against specific goals.
  
• Stakeholder confidence: Science-based targets assure stakeholders like customers, partners, and investors that a company is diligently managing its environmental and safety risks and working towards sustainable change.
  
• Regulatory preparedness: By aligning with recommended science-based targets, companies can be better prepared for future regulations and policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
• Operational efficiency: Setting emissions reduction targets can increase efficiency and create cost savings by helping a company improve its energy management.
  

Copps Industries’ Science-Based Targets: Greenhouse Gases and Environmental Commitment

Of the nearly 9,000 companies participating worldwide, around 1,200 are headquartered in North America. Most companies involved are very large; organizations like 3M, Abbott, Conagra, General Motors, and others have all declared their environmental commitment through SBTi. As a smaller company, Copps Industries’ participation is somewhat unique. 

Our SBTi journey began when one of our European private-label customers brought the initiative to our attention. We listened, evaluated, and determined that participating in SBTi aligns with our mission, which reflects a commitment to the environment and commitment to our customers. 

Copps Industries had a long-standing environmental commitment, continually working toward reducing our environmental impact with efforts like:

• Removing flammables from our plant
• Replacing chlorinated solvents in favor of more environmentally friendly compounds
• Removing known and suspected toxic ingredients from our chemical formulations
• Upgrading our packaging to reduce waste

Joining SBTi has allowed us to refine our goals to reduce our environmental impact. The first step in joining the initiative was signing the SBTi Commitment Letter, which allowed us to declare our commitment to SBTi publicly. After signing the letter, we had a period of time to create science-based targets that fulfilled the SBTi criteria and submit those goals for SBTi validation. 

Our submission was approved using a streamlined target validation route exclusive to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Our science-based targets include a commitment to:

• Reduce scope 1 and scope 2 GHG emissions by 42% by 2030 from a 2021 base year
• Measure and reduce scope 3 emissions

Reporting and Future Goals

SBTi serves as a reporting service, and all the data that participating companies submit is publicly available on the SBTi website. The dashboard displays the organizations that have committed to set science-based targets and those with greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets validated as science-based by the SBTi. 

SBTi milestones are measured at 5, 10, and 30 years. The near-term goal of the initiative is to encourage more companies to adopt important environmental metrics. As Copps Industries’ journey evolves, regularly reporting data will allow us to ask, “Have we made an impact? How can we make changes?” We have many measures already in place and will continue to drill down on the data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

SBTi and the Copps Industries Mission

At Copps Industries, we support SBTi and the continued efforts toward a future with reduced or net-zero GHG emissions to slow climate change. As a leading innovator in the epoxy product space, our mission is to continually innovate our products and services to meet the needs of our customers and the environment and prioritize the safety of our employees in the workplace. We aim to continue focusing on a cleaner future and providing consistently high-quality epoxy products.

Copps Industries is your go-to partner for high-quality epoxies, but we’re also your partner for environmental action and a more sustainable supply chain. Contact us today to learn more about our initiatives or request a quote.

Empowering Mining Excellence: Copps Wear-Resistant Products at Work

In the demanding, rough-and-tumble world of mining, equipment durability and efficiency are critical to operational success. At Copps Industries, we understand the challenges mining professionals face, and we provide advanced wear-resistant products that enhance the longevity and performance of your essential mining equipment.

Here, we’re highlighting two key applications where our innovative K-038 ArmorPlate Ceramic FC has made a significant impact: Overflow Ball Mill Outlet Boxes and Hydro-Cyclone Launders.

Application #1: Overflow Ball Mill Outlet Box

The overflow ball mill box plays a crucial role in grinding operations and is designed to overflow and discharge materials from the trunnion on the outlet side. Typically combined with a mechanical classifier or wet-processing cyclone, this setup is used for fine grinding in closed circuits or special applications such as regrinding in open circuits. However, the highly abrasive nature of the ore often leads to rapid wear and tear of the outlet box lining.

The overflow mill has a discharge steel box that is usually rubber-lined or ceramic-lined to resist high abrasion. These rubber linings typically wear out within 3-6 months, leading to frequent maintenance and downtime. To address this issue, Copps Industries introduced K-038 ArmorPlate Ceramic FC to replace the rubber lining.

Here are the benefits of using K-038 ArmorPlate Ceramic FC:

• Fast Cure Material: Minimizes equipment downtime by curing quickly.
• On-Site Repairs: Allows repairs to be made without dismounting the equipment.
• Easy Mixing and Application: Can be applied easily without specialized tools.
• Versatile Application: The paste can be applied vertically without sagging, unlike some competitor products.
• Superior Abrasion Resistance: With K-038, the anti-wear material lasts 9-12 months, effectively doubling equipment lifespan compared to rubber linings.

Application #2: Hydro-Cyclone Launders

Hydro-cyclones separate coarse materials from fine particles, operating through a vortex cone fed at the top by a pump. The launders are made of carbon steel and house a battery of three cyclones. The extreme abrasion in these launders necessitates the use of protective lining plates to prevent equipment damage.

Working with one customer, we saw these lining plates were coated with competitors’ ceramic beaded epoxy, which required up to two preventive maintenance schedules per year to keep the equipment running without failure. The downtime and maintenance frequency were significant challenges.

By introducing K-038 ArmorPlate Ceramic FC, we provided a solution that exceeded the customers’ expectations and reduced maintenance. Coating the lining plates with K-038 significantly improved the durability and abrasion resistance of the launders and reduced maintenance to just once a year.

Consider these advantages of K-038 for Hydro-Cyclone Launders:

• Proprietary Formulation: Developed over 35 years to address the unique challenges of the mining industry.
• Enhanced Performance: Outperforms competitors’ materials in both durability and abrasion resistance.
• Reduced Downtime: Minimizes the frequency of maintenance, ensuring continuous operation.
• Quick Cure Time: Allows for faster turnaround and less downtime during maintenance.

Wear-Resistant Products from Copps Industries

At Copps Industries, we’re proud to support the mining community with products that empower excellence and drive success. With the superior properties of K-038 ArmorPlate Ceramic FC, we’ve enabled mining operations to achieve greater efficiency, less downtime, and longer equipment life. 

Our line of wear-resistant products was specially formulated with the mining industry’s unique needs in mind, and our commitment to excellence ensures that we continue to meet the industry’s evolving needs. For more information on our wear-resistant solutions and how they can benefit your operations, contact us or request a quote today.

Empowering Collegiate Innovation and the Future of Engineering

At Copps Industries, we believe in the power of innovation. It’s evident in our products and our commitment to nurturing the next generation of chemists, developers, and engineers. 

For years, we’ve taken steps to advance the industry by partnering with universities and research institutions across the nation. We’ve reaffirmed our dedication to student and industry development one project at a time.

Fostering Innovation Through Partnership

Supporting transformative projects at the collegiate level is one of our top priorities—and a strategic imperative. By partnering with institutions like Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the University of California—Berkeley, and others, we’re doing our part to revolutionize industry standards and practices.

These collaborations are about more than just research; they’re about making real-world impacts. For instance, we’ve worked with Oak Ridge National Laboratory on cutting-edge research to help make carbon fiber technologies more accessible for use in industries like automotive, wind energy, and infrastructure. And our partnership with UC Berkeley’s Formula SAE team showcases our commitment to students who embody the innovative spirit we strive to support. 

Copps Industries also closely partners with SAMPE, the Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering. SAMPE connects professionals in the field to exchange insights and ideas on new materials and processing technology and often supports student-led student projects and competitions. Members of the Copps team actively participate with SAMPE to facilitate industry connections and provide resources for research and development.

Copps’ Epoxy Resins in Collegiate Competitions

Our involvement with the UC Berkeley Formula SAE team has been particularly exciting. The Berkeley Formula Racing team is composed of a diverse group of students from various disciplines, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and business. This year, the team is developing a formula-style, single-seat race car from scratch, intended for the Formula SAE Electric competition at Michigan International Speedway in June.

Copps Industries has supported the team’s project by providing state-of-the-art epoxy resins essential for crafting key components of their race car. Advanced materials and processes play a crucial role in the Formula SAE competition. Our experts have worked closely with the students, advising them on the best resin systems and processes to optimize the performance and reliability of their car.

Impact Beyond the Lab

The support we provide to students extends beyond materials and advice. By investing in these future leaders, we’re helping to foster a culture of innovation they carry forward as they enter their careers. 

It’s a story we’ve seen play out many times over. One example is a former student from Knoxville, Tennessee, who, after collaborating with Copps Industries on a university project, went on to start his own company. His familiarity with Copps and our capabilities led to an ongoing collaboration that has continued to shape his business—and ours. 

This cycle of learning, innovating, and leading is what we’re all about—investing in the industry’s future and the bright minds that will lead it.

Looking Ahead: Powering Collegiate Innovation with Copps Industries

At Copps Industries, we’re committed to advancing innovation and education at all levels. Our contributions to student-led projects in automotive, aerospace, and other industries have fostered a culture of learning and a spirit of problem-solving that empowers students to transform classroom theories into tangible innovations.

As we look forward to the upcoming races and new projects in the pipeline, Copps Industries remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the products we create and the industries we help transform. Our work with these talented students is just one way that Copps Industries empowers innovation and leadership in engineering.