PIQUA, Ohio—French Oil Mill Machinery Co. hosted an open house April 30, inviting Piqua community members to see the work it does and how it impacts industries around the world.
The manufacturer of hydraulic press systems and processing equipment for the oilseed and polymer industries welcomed more than 80 for a behind-the-scenes tour of the 225,000-sq.-ft. headquarters and manufacturing facility in Piqua. During the tour, guests took a look at the machining operations on a four-axis vertical turning lathe and a five-face bridge mill. SolidWorks part drawings and initial and finished parts were on display.
Company representatives described the manufacturing processes as they showed the company's hydraulic press systems that are used for composite and rubber molding and the dewatering presses, which are used in the production of synthetic rubber.
An electrical engineer demonstrated the electrical programming involved for the machines to operate. Some machines sold will ship to U.S. customers.
Those attending the event included educators, students, community leaders and employees' families. Inviting these community members to see the facility helps to strengthen the company's ties to the community, according to Tayte French Lutz, director of marketing for French Oil Mill."To us, the word customer extends beyond our traditional customers and incorporates our employees, their families and our community." Lutz said in a news release.
"By opening our doors for this event, we strengthen those relationships for the mutual benefit of us in the Piqua area and for the manufacturing industry at a whole."
During the event, the company debuted a video celebrating its 119-year history and the benefits of a career in manufacturing.