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Laser Reproductions Goes “Green”

In recent years environmental issues have jumped to the forefront of discussions, both nationally and globally. In the U.S. nearly 45% of consumers have been incorporating environmentally-friendly products and practices into their lifestyles to live healthier and preserve our planet’s natural resources.

Recognizing that eco-conscious practices not only benefit the environment, but reduce long-term business expenses, Laser Reproductions joined an emerging group of companies dedicated to green business practices. In 2007, the company purchased a state-of-the-art recycling unit from CBG Technologies to minimize the amount of propylene glycol and alcohol used when cleaning prototypes produced by the stereolithography (SLA) machines. Once used, the chemicals are transferred into the recycling unit, which extracts all of the impurities produced during the cleaning processes. The pure propylene glycol and alcohol that remains can then be re-used to clean another batch of prototypes. The cycle continues until the recycling unit is no longer able to produce pure chemicals. Paint thinner used to clean paint guns and finish prototypes in the company’s in-house model shop can also be recycled through the same process.

Laser traditionally purchased 3 55-gallon drums of propylene glycol and alcohol each month to aid in the prototype production process. Like all companies using environmentally-hazardous chemicals, federal and state regulations require proper disposal methods for each empty drum. Since contracting a certified waste removal service provider is costly, the company’s monthly drum removal expense was equal to its purchasing expense. Laser was faced with the challenge of reducing operating expenses. The new recycling unit helped Laser achieve just that.

In one year, the recycling unit has allowed Laser to considerably decrease the number of drums purchased and disposed of per month. Thus, the unit has literary paid for itself and will continue to save the company and its customers money for years to come. In addition, Laser is able to conserve valuable energy and resources while maintaining a high-level of productivity.

Laser Reproductions has an extensive variety of processes and a vast range of materials to accomplish your rapid prototyping, manufacturing or product development goals. Call 614.552.6905 to learn more.

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