Category Archive: Events
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.
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.
At Copps Industries, we pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving industries we serve. Our commitment to innovation is driven by a desire to meet the needs of our customers in various sectors, from mining to manufacturing.
Our expert chemists and engineers work hard to anticipate how changing conditions in various industries shape the future and how we can respond. Let’s dive in and take a look at the top three trends in resistant-wear materials right now.
Trend #1: Impact-Resistant Materials
Resistant wear coatings are designed to protect surfaces from severe mechanical stresses like blows, strikes, and collisions. These coatings are essential in industries where equipment and components meet harsh operational conditions. For example, the mining industry has traditionally focused on materials designed to resist sliding abrasion from elements like sand, rock, and slurry.
The demand for high-impact resistant-wear materials is rising. Coatings ranging from ceramic to polyurethane to epoxy all provide durability and absorb shocks effectively. The next generation of solutions will become even more versatile to mitigate wear and prolong equipment life.
At Copps, we’re actively developing a new generation of high-impact-resistant materials. As customer needs for these types of materials emerge, we’ll be positioned to respond with formulations in our product lineup.
Trend #2: High Temperature-Resistant Materials
The mining industry is experiencing a significant shift with the discovery of vast lithium reserves in northern Mexico. The extraction and processing of this valuable resource demand materials that can withstand exceptionally high temperatures. Existing solutions can handle temperatures up to 450°F, but with the unique requirements of lithium processing, even greater strength and durability will be needed.
Copps Industries is braced for the challenge, actively researching and developing materials designed to perform under these extreme conditions. Our team of experienced chemists played a pivotal role in developing our existing high-temperature materials, and we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible to accommodate increasing needs. The key lies in enhancing our epoxy binders, which form the backbone of these high-performance materials.
Trend #3: Speed in Low-Temperature Environments
Efficiency is critical across every industry, and that means the speed with which materials cure and set is a top concern for many. Most materials today do best in ambient temperatures ranging from 60˚F to 120˚F. In colder climates, these materials might not perform optimally.
In regions like South America, with higher elevations and where temperatures can drop to 40°F, there’s a pressing need for materials that cure quickly. Customers in this region have told us most of the solutions in the marketplace today simply aren’t satisfactory under their working conditions. Copps Industries is collaborating closely with them to develop innovative solutions that cure faster at low temperatures, reducing equipment downtime and increasing productivity.
Copps Industries: A Partner for Innovation
At Copps, we’re not just following trends; we are anticipating and shaping them. Our ongoing product development is a testament to our proactive approach. Our innovation in impact-resistant, high-temperature, and quick-setting materials at low temperatures is delivering top performance and advancing industry standards.
Our promise to our customers is clear: Copps Industries is your partner in navigating the complex landscape of wear-resistant materials. We’re committed to equipping you with the best products to face the challenges of today and tomorrow. Contact us to learn more.
In the search for industrial products, too many organizations settle for a low standard. You might browse a catalog and order what’s available, even though it has features and properties you don’t really need or requires processes that delay your production. The price is acceptable, and you trust it will arrive on time.
But there’s a better choice: a custom solution formulated specifically to optimize your success.
At Copps Industries, customization isn’t just an option; it’s our preferred path to help you harness precision, efficiency, and cost savings. Here, we’re diving into our approach to customizing unique formulations and addressing the most common objections we hear to demonstrate why a custom solution is crucial to your success.
Understanding Customization
There’s a common misconception that custom solutions are more expensive and come with longer lead times than off-the-shelf products. And that’s often the case when you contract with other suppliers. Not at Copps Industries.
We’ve noticed that many customers aren’t aware that tailoring a solution to their specific needs is an option, let alone an affordable one. The usual instinct is to opt for standard products because they seem more accessible and can be fulfilled immediately. But what if the standard solution isn’t the perfect fit for your unique requirements?
Our Customization Process: Designed for You
At Copps Industries, our goal is to adapt our product to your process, not the other way around. We start by understanding what you want to achieve and examining what is and is not working with your current formulations. Then, we collaborate to create a formulation specifically designed to meet your needs—at no additional cost.
We don’t believe in charging more just because a solution is customized. We aim to understand your processes and develop an ideal formula for your processes while considering your cost targets.
Achieving Efficiency & Savings
Sometimes, concerns about availability and shipping delays come up in conversations about custom solutions. We’re transparent in addressing these questions head-on. If the necessary raw materials are available, your lead times remain unchanged. If your custom formulation requires unique raw materials, procuring them may extend the development phase. However, once development is complete, production and shipping will resume normal lead times without delays.
When considering costs, you might assume a custom solution comes with a high price tag. In cases where special materials are required, the initial cost may be higher. However, a tailor-made solution can result in significant savings in your manufacturing processes with increased throughput.
We have extensive experience developing products to create efficiency and reduce costs without compromising on quality or efficiency. One customer was using an aerospace-grade product primarily for its heat resistance despite having no need for many of its other properties. Working together, we developed a custom solution that focused on exactly what they needed and removed unnecessary properties. The resulting formulation met their specific needs, reduced their costs, and simplified their process—it eliminated the need for them to cure in specialized ovens, leading to huge operational savings.
Collaboration Over Compromise
We believe in collaboration over compromise. You tell us what you need to improve your process, and we work together to make it happen. This personalized process ensures a one-of-a-kind solution adapted to your needs.
Unlike many others in the industry, our threshold for customization is reasonable, meaning we can provide tailored solutions without the usual barriers, like extended lead times. Our capacity to develop and supply custom products quickly and efficiently is at the core of our approach.
The Virtual Copps’ Chemist is more than just a service—it’s a testament to our commitment to your success. As a catalyst for collaboration, the Virtual Chemist allows you to harness our expertise, secure top-quality products, and gain a partner dedicated to moving your business forward.
Go Beyond Standard Solutions with Copps Industries
Choosing a custom solution with Copps Industries means investing in your success at a cost comparable to, or even less than, standard options. Our formulations are designed to seamlessly integrate with and enhance your operations. We ensure you get exactly what you need without paying for what you don’t.
Why settle for the standard when you can optimize your output and secure your success with customization? We supply custom solutions on an everyday basis at Copps. Contact us today to learn more about Copps Industries and get started collaborating on a custom solution.
From high-speed race cars to cutting-edge aircraft, epoxy resin and carbon fiber are the secret ingredients powering innovation across industries. In applications where every ounce counts and resilience is non-negotiable, carbon fiber reinforced with epoxy resin is the go-to choice.
Let’s explore how this perfect match redefines what’s possible in strength and durability.
Epoxy Resins for Carbon Fiber
Composites are specialty materials made from a combination of fibers and resins. Epoxy resin is a thermoset polymer material that is heated and cured to chemically alter the material’s composition to create a permanently hardened substance. Epoxy resins can have glass transition temperatures above 400F˚, allowing them to retain their physical properties in high-temperature ranges. Once the liquid polymers in an epoxy resin solidify, the hardened piece becomes strong, resistant to chemical and thermal damage, and can withstand physical wear or impact.
Epoxy resin is advantageous due to its properties in its cured state. The material has the unique ability to fuse with carbon fibers to create an even stronger microstructure that showcases the advantages of both the epoxy and the fibers.
Carbon fibers are strong, lightweight, and fatigue-resistant fibers used to build composite materials. By combining carbon fibers with epoxies, manufacturers can create incredibly hard, durable materials that outperform both individual material types. Composites are a relatively new production material compared to materials like aluminum, iron, and steel, but there are many benefits to working with carbon fiber-strengthened composites that span a range of industries.
Carbon fibers resist fatigue, have low thermal expansion, and absorb or dampen vibrations. They are supplied in two forms that are suitable for creating composites. Carbon fiber tows are bundles of thousands of untwisted, continuous fibers that can be used directly in epoxies or converted into woven reinforcement materials like fabrics or tape.
Benefits of Epoxy Resins for Carbon Fiber
Epoxy resin and carbon fiber composites are uniquely strong and offer excellent performance in commercial and industrial applications. Some of the benefits of this material include:
- Strength: Carbon fibers have high tensile strength but are prone to damage. Epoxy resins have low tensile strength, but their toughness and malleable properties protect the fibers from damage, creating an even stronger material.
- Lightweight: The composite material has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, surpassing even aluminum and titanium. As a result, manufacturers can produce lightweight parts that can be used in more energy-efficient vehicles and assemblies.
- Flexibility: Despite its strength and durability, the composite is simultaneously very flexible. This means the material can withstand strong impact forces by absorbing the force. It also won’t develop spider cracks under impact or when the material is bent.
- No shrinkage: Epoxy resins won’t shrink after curing. This extends the lifespan of composite parts and components used in harsh environments.
- UV resistance: The composite material can withstand exposure to sunlight. It’s 100% UV resistant, so it can be used in long-term outdoor applications without the risk of wear or degradation.
- Aesthetics: Epoxy resin and carbon fiber composites are transparent, which makes them an excellent choice for visible components and consumer-facing products.
Applications of Epoxy Resins with Carbon Fiber
The versatility of epoxy resin and carbon fiber composites makes them useful in a wide variety of applications and industries. At Copps Industries, we formulate epoxy resins for composite materials used across the following applications:
- Aerospace
- Aircraft and avionics
- Automotive component construction and assembly
- Boats and marine applications
- Consumer goods
- Construction
- Corrosion-resistant parts for industrial and manufacturing equipment
- Military and defense—DoT-approved epoxy resin systems
- Oil and gas processing
- Sporting goods and recreational products
- Transportation
Choose Epoxy Resins with Carbon Fiber From Copps Industries
Since 1979, Copps Industries has been a leading provider of high-performance epoxy resins for use in civil engineering, adhesives, manufacturing, and more. Our company is ISO 9011:2015-certified as part of our commitment to excellent product quality. We produce resins for use in a wide variety of composite materials.
If you’re ready to elevate your projects with the strength and resilience of carbon fiber and epoxy resins, contact us today to request a quote and start your order.
As a professional society dedicated to providing information and resources, the Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering (SAMPE) is a valuable network for scientists, engineers, and researchers. The SAMPE Annual Conference and Exhibition brings together professionals from around the world to explore the latest advancements in materials and processing technology.
Copps Industries is excited to have participated in the SAMPE Annual Conference and Exhibition 2024, held in Long Beach, California, May 20-23. Featuring a variety of speakers, technical papers, educational sessions, and an expansive expo, the event is a place where groundbreaking ideas are exchanged. Here, we’re sharing some of the highlights and key takeaways from this year’s conference.
Keynote Address: Empowering the Materials and Process Community
An inspirational session at the conference was the keynote address, “Empowering the Materials and Process Community for Tomorrow’s Innovations,” by Stephen Heinz from the Composite Materials Division at Syensqo. Heinz discussed how industries reliant on composite materials have faced rapid disruption with the evolution of advanced air mobility and advances in technologies. He emphasized the need for materials and process professionals to innovate at the same pace to continue to advance the industry.
Themes of Advancement and Sustainability
The conference featured several sessions and panels reflecting key themes of advancement and sustainability. Some of those sessions included:
- Advancing Composite Materials Technology, which emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia and industry to drive innovation in composite materials and prepare the next generation of engineers to continue this progress.
- Sustainability and Circularity in the Advanced Materials Industry, which explored strategies for sustainability in the production and use of advanced materials and shared insights to help businesses integrate sustainable practices into their operations and product life cycles.
- Sustainability and Applications of Advanced Materials, which looked at the various applications that contribute to sustainability, from lightweight composites that reduce fuel consumption to materials designed for renewable energy systems.
Another standout session was “Doing Business in Mexico,” where Dr. Yadira Gochi-Ponce highlighted Mexico’s leadership in advancing multifunctional materials and the country’s significant aerospace manufacturing contributions.
USDOE & SAMPE Co-Sponsored Workshop
One of the key conference highlights was a workshop on Advanced Materials for Hydrogen Infrastructure Technologies, co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (USDOE) and SAMPE. The workshop examined state-of-the-art advanced materials like fiber-reinforced composites. Participants left with a better understanding of current challenges and opportunities and potential strategies to reduce costs and improve performance.
Exhibit and Customer Engagement
The exhibition floor bustled with manufacturers and suppliers showcasing their latest products and innovations, offering organizations the opportunity to engage face-to-face with potential customers and partners. For participating companies like ours, the exhibit hall offered valuable opportunities to connect with customers and gain insights into market demands and emerging trends.
Connecting to Copps Industries Values
Copps Industries emphasizes many of the same themes highlighted at the SAMPE 2024 Annual Conference as part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability. This includes our dedication to advancing materials technology and exploring sustainable solutions for our customers and the community.
The SAMPE conference provided a platform for industry professionals to exchange ideas, explore innovations, and foster connections. From an inspiring keynote to engaging sessions on sustainability and advanced materials, the event showcased how the engineering community is addressing some of today’s most pressing challenges. At Copps Industries, our commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge innovation ensures we continue to meet the evolving needs of our customers in the materials industry.
The AGG1 Academy & Expo is the aggregates industry’s leading exposition and education resource. With industry-focused educational programming, comprehensive exhibits, and an expansive expo, the event showcases innovation in aggregate equipment, products, and services.
Hosted by the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA), AGG1 brings together professionals from across the country to explore the latest technology, enhance their teams’ skills, and network with peers. Copps Industries is excited to have participated in AGG1 2024, held in Nashville, Tennessee, March 25-27. Here, we’re sharing some of the highlights and key takeaways from this year’s show.
Themes of Safety and Sustainability
Safety and sustainability emerged as central themes in both educational programming and show exhibits. Attendees had the opportunity to advance their knowledge on health and safety measures, improving environmental stewardship, and adopting sustainable practices. These themes reflect a shared commitment to both people and the planet, values also held by Copps Industries.
Advancing Policies and Infrastructure
NSSGA advocates for a favorable policy and regulatory environment that helps foster industry growth. Their efforts focus on areas like infrastructure renewal, energy production, and manufacturing support. Sessions at the conference explored the political and public policy outlook for 2024, helping participants anticipate the challenges and opportunities that may lie ahead.
Education and Team Development
The AGG1 Academy featured more than 120 educational sessions led by industry experts, focusing on safety, health, the environment, and sustainability. With topics ranging from harnessing solar power to workforce development to business management, the programming offered insights and strategies to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental stewardship.
Exploring the Latest Technology
The aggregates industry plays a vital role in infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing. Given this, it’s crucial for professionals to keep pace with the technology that will propel the industry’s future. More than 400 exhibitors showcased the latest equipment and solutions. Exhibits provided valuable opportunities for attendees to collaborate and exchange ideas while they explored the latest innovations.
Customer Engagement and Business Opportunities
The conference offered valuable opportunities for participating companies like Copps Industries to connect with customers and gain insights into emerging trends and sought-after solutions. Our discussions focused on various aspects of plant operations, production, and equipment, helping us stay up to date on the latest technologies, processes, and products that aggregate producers are using in creative ways.
Connecting to Copps Industries Values
Copps Industries emphasizes many of the same themes seen at the AGG1 Academy & Expo 2024 as part of our ongoing commitment to our customers. This includes our dedication to continually seeking better solutions while doing the right thing for customers, employees, and the community.
The AGG1 Academy & Expo 2024 provided a forum for aggregate professionals to collaborate, learn, and innovate. With an emphasis on safety, sustainability, and technology, the event showcased how the industry is addressing some of its most pressing challenges. At Copps Industries, our similar commitments will help us partner with customers to drive positive change in the aggregates industry and beyond. Contact us or request a quote today.
The MINEXCHANGE SME Annual Conference & Expo brings together professionals from around the world who are involved in all aspects of mining engineering. With a variety of technical sessions, keynote speakers, an expansive expo, and hands-on opportunities for collaboration, the event features cutting-edge research and explores the most innovative solutions in the mining industry.
Copps Industries is excited to have participated in MINEXCHANGE 2024, held in Phoenix, Arizona, February 25-28. Here, we’re sharing some of the highlights and key takeaways from this year’s show.
Keynote Address: Energy is Everything
One of the standout moments of the conference was the keynote address, “Energy is Everything,” by energy expert Alex Epstein. Epstein discussed the crucial role of affordable and reliable energy in global human flourishing, particularly in developing nations. He emphasized the continued importance of coal and other fossil fuels to provide energy access worldwide, citing their significant reserves and potential to support improved energy delivery systems. This session and others sparked conversations at the conference around the future of energy grids and the challenges of achieving “net zero by 2050.”
Themes of Innovation and Responsibility
Throughout the conference, the themes of innovation and responsible mining worked their way into discussions and presentations. Attendees had a chance to advance their knowledge on reducing emissions, promoting sustainability, and enhancing safety practices in the mining industry. These themes underscore a collective commitment to meeting society’s needs while prioritizing environmental stewardship and ethical practices—values that align closely with Copps Industries’ commitment to customers.
Customer Engagement and Business Opportunities
For participating companies like ours, the conference offered valuable opportunities to connect with customers. Meeting with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and potential clients provided insights into market demands and emerging trends. Many of our discussions centered around the importance of product quality and timely delivery, reflecting the growing emphasis on sustainability and responsibility among many in the industry.
Exploring Sustainable Solutions
Like many other companies, Copps Industries actively explores sustainable solutions to meet evolving industry needs and standards. Our commitment to 100% solid, nolow volatile organic compound (VOC) products matches the industry’s efforts to mitigate emissions and enhance safety standards. Discussions at the conference also revealed opportunities to track future innovations like bulk delivery systems, which offer the potential to reduce packaging and environmental impact.
Connecting to Copps Industries Values
As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and customer service, Copps Industries emphasizes many of the same themes seen at MINEXCHANGE 2024. This includes our cutting-edge development of private labeling offerings and our dedication to seeking better solutions while doing the right thing for customers, employees, and the community.
The MINEXCHANGE SME Annual Conference & Expo 2024 provided a platform for industry professionals to exchange ideas, explore innovations, and create connections. From a thought-provoking keynote to engaging discussions on sustainability and responsible mining, the event showcased the collective efforts of the mining community to address some of today’s most pressing challenges. At Copps Industries, our commitment to sustainability and innovation will help us keep pace with evolving needs and partner with customers to shape the future of the mining industry.
Put the power and innovation of Copps Industries to work for you today, contact us or request a quote.
