ITAC Adhesives - News page

Itac replicate key quality requirements, time and time again.

Exopack Advanced Coatings is a world leader in the manufacture of coated papers, films and speciality substrates and also a global specialist in contract coating laminating and finishing flexible materials.

The company maintains strategic partnerships with leading OEM and private label manufacturing clients and operates similar partnerships with a select number of thoroughly audited and tested suppliers.

Specialist adhesives and coating manufacturer Itac is such a partner.

The relationship was forged just over twelve months ago, when Exopack Advanced Coatings recognised its need for an increased and regular supply of a vital liquid coating. The solution forms a crucial surface requirement for an innovative ‘state of the art’ printing application film.

Exopack Advanced Coatings approached Itac, a company that it knew as being qualified from a technical, commercial and safety viewpoint. From the outset there was a synergy between the two businesses and a partnership developed quickly.

Driven by its own high standards and its critical high tech areas of activity, Exopack Advanced Coatings has developed strict, crucial requirements to prove and measure process capability and repeatability. The substance being manufactured by Itac, requires particularly rigid process parameters in order to achieve ‘cloned product replication'. These include temperature, automatic data acquisition and quantitative filtration and dispersion measurements. In less than a year, Itac has been able to develop ‘steady state manufacturing’ complete with an impressive statistical process control system. The system meets all production guidelines. Furthermore, key personnel from both companies now meet regularly to review the risk minimization system and to develop the programme further. Prior to ratification of the partnership, Itac has now formally qualified as a manufacturing partner for Exopack Advanced Coatings.

Itac's Managing Director - Paul Armitt commented: ‘Itac works as a manufacturing partner with many organizations, but our experience with Exopack Advanced Coatings has helped us to achieve ‘a step change’ in our partnership service. It demonstrates our ability to work with the world’s highest calibre companies. It shows we are able to understand and control critical to function process parameters which are vital to the performance of our clients end product’.

Itac makes visible difference at Strasbourg multipurpose arena.

It has been described as a work of art and a prodigious sculpture – the ‘Zenith de Strasbourg multipurpose arena,’ is certainly that plus much more. The new 10,000 seat arena is set to become a European cultural landmark and a leading venue for international artistes from around the world.

Designed by renowned Architect Massimiliano Fuksas, utilizing environmentally friendly concepts and methods, the building process incorporated recyclable materials and energy saving systems within its construction.

Without doubt, the most striking visual feature, of the stadium, is its fluorescent orange canopy, which completely envelops the top half of the steel ramework.

The canopy was fabricated from material manufactured in the UK by P-D Interglas Technologies Ltd. The company worked closely with Itac Ltd, an independent coating and adhesive formulator/manufacturer, to achieve the spectacular depth of colour. The Manchester based specialist, helped create a long lasting, silicone coating to match the Architect’s precise brief.

Paul Armitt, Managing Director of Itac had this to say:
“We are delighted that P-D Interglas Technologies Ltd chose to utilize our knowledge base and manufacturing facilities for this highly prestigious project. This enabled us to ensure that the critically demanding schedule was achieved on time.

The process methods we used for the canopy coating, are complemented by our ITS - intelligent technical solutions initiative, through which, we are currently researching, many new and exciting developments, including the possibilities for self-cleaning Nano technology. This is specifically suitable for use on textiles for architectural purposes, such as decorative rain/sun protection canopies, awnings, façade covers etc.”

Itac makes visible difference at Strasbourg multipurpose arena.

Itac adhesive sales grow, as roof gardens stay watertight.

There was a time when if you wanted a garden, you moved out to suburbia, not anymore. Now ‘Green Roofs’ or roof gardens have become a striking feature, seen not only on dense inner-city high risers but also on prestige corporate buildings.

The technical challenge for suppliers and installers of these aerial gardens is to promote controlled growth of a range of plants, shrubs and grasses on the roof, whilst retaining the essential waterproofing properties of the system. This is achieved by first laying a durable membrane on the roof.

International Construction Bureau of Bournemouth, is a company which specializes in the specification and installation of roof gardens. When they required an adhesive system to affix the membrane they chose one, which has been specifically developed for the purpose by Itac, the independent adhesive formulator based in Manchester.

Itac adhesive sales grow, as roof gardens stay watertight.

The adhesive has been extensively tried and tested. It achieves the robust long-term bond required to ensure the all-important waterproof membrane securely adheres to the roof substrate, prior to the application of growth medium and the garden itself.

Paul Armitt, Itac’s Managing Director, commented:
‘Like so many of the formulations we create, this product has been developed as part of our ITS - intelligent technical solutions initiative. It is for a niche market, with a lot of potential. It works far more effectively than an off-the-shelf answer. Our customers are delighted at its efficiency.

ITS-Fibretherm U.V.
- clear adhesive, with a visible difference.

It is little more than twelve months since Itac began marketing ITS-Fibretherm
- the first in a new range of technically advanced adhesives, to China.

Now the innovative adhesive formulator has used ‘Fluoro Technology ‘ to enhance its product and resolve a long-standing problem with clear sprayable adhesives. ITS-Fibretherm U.V. is visible when viewed under U.V. light, enabling the applicator to see clearly any overspray which may have occurred, providing improved production efficiency and enhanced quality control.

ITS-Fibretherm U.V.
- clear adhesive, with a visible difference.

This is particularly useful for a product such as ITS-Fibretherm U.V., which is a two-component polyurethane adhesive that was initially developed by Itac, for use in the manufacture of electric blankets. It has a wide range of advantages which make it suitable for many textile and fabric applications, including clothing and fashion.

ITS-Fibretherm U.V., is a clear, sprayable adhesive that is easy to apply. It bonds fabrics quickly, allowing components to move rapidly through the manufacturing process. It is non-flammable and also provides good heat and moisture resistance. It has a strong, flexible bond. This is important as it allows modern fabrics to remain soft to the touch after the adhesive has been applied. ITS-Fibretherm U.V., meets all current legislation and is BEAB approved. It is also RoHS compliant.

Paul Armitt, Managing Director of Itac commented:
‘This method of product tracking is simple yet effective. It will be a real production aid for our customers at home and overseas. We are currently developing more complex tracking and tracing technologies in our laboratories. These will enable us to add unique ‘Chemical DNA’ to any adhesive to identify product source and lineage - a major advance in a world where traceability and accountability are becoming more important every day”.

ITS-Foodsmart adhesive provides good bond, yet allows label to change colour to indicate ripeness of pre-packed fruit.

Supermarket and grocery store shoppers are beginning to see the introduction of new labelling technology, which will quite literally change the way we select fruit and potentially other perishable goods from the shelves.

The unique label, positioned inside the cellophane wrapping, automatically changes colour as fruit ripens, enabling shoppers to see at a glance, the exact stage of fruit ripeness, allowing the consumer to purchase fruit to his or her exact preference, ranging from crispy to totally ripe.

Various proprietary brand adhesives are capable of affixing paper to cellophane. However, the label manufacturer had difficulty locating a 'food safe' adhesive which could achieve a successful bond without inhibiting the action of colour change.

Manchester based, independent adhesive formulator and manufacturer, Itac solved the problem by creating an FDA Approved adhesive which does not interfere with the label's ability to alter hue, yet adheres well to the cellophane wrapping. Also crucially, it is safe when it comes into direct contact with food.

Paul Armitt, Managing Director of Itac, talked about the project:
'All of our team were excited by the innovative nature of this technology and its potential for future success. It needed a new formulation with specific parameters and we rose to the challenge. The product we developed is a total success. It now forms the base of ITS Foodsmart adhesive, available within Itac's range of technically advanced adhesives, which all bear the ITS prefix'.

Sales warming up, for ITS-Fibretherm adhesive in China.

Manchester based, independent adhesive formulator and manufacturer Itac has successfully marketed one of its new products to China.

ITS-Fibretherm is the first in a new range of technically advanced adhesives which will all bear the ITS-prefix.

ITS-Fibretherm is a two component polyurethane adhesive that has been specifically developed by Itac, for use in the manufacture of electric blankets. Itac responded to a customer requirement by
developing an adhesive, which would help bring manufacturing up-to-date.

The product was initially produced for blanket manufacture within the UK. As this market contracted and manufacture moved to the Far East, Itac identified China as a ready market for its unique product.

Although developed for a specific use, ITS-Fibretherm adhesive has a wide range of advantages which will make it the favoured choice of many textile and fabric manufacturers including those connected with the fashion and clothing trade.

ITS-Fibretherm, is a clear sprayable adhesive that is easy to apply. It bonds fabrics quickly, allowing components to move quickly through the manufacturing process. As you might expect it is non flammable and it also provides good heat and moisture resistance. It has a strong bond which is flexible, this is important as it allows modern fabrics to remain soft to the touch after the adhesive has bonded.

ITS-Fibretherm meets all current legislation and is BEAB approved.

Paul Armitt, Managing Director of Itac had this to say:
‘Initial sales in China have been encouraging but we see it as only the start. This is just one of many ITS adhesive solutions, our expertise comes from solving problems of all types. That said, the market for electric blankets is currently experiencing a period of rapid growth, as an effective method of clean, efficient, low cost heat, it has few rivals. China, is the world’s leading exporter, it has huge potential for this product and its home market for electric blankets is growing rapidly. Two hundred and fifty million people form China’s middle class – that’s a lot of electric blankets’.

Two Key Acquisitions Pump Up The Volume At ITAC

Manchester based, industrial adhesive formulator Itac is feeling quietly confident as its two recent acquisitions begin to bear fruit.

At the beginning of this year Itac purchased the water based pressure sensitive adhesive division of Borden Chemicals situated in Bury, Lancashire.

Since that time, Itac has integrated the Borden operation within its manufacturing facility at Stoneclough, Manchester. The transition has been seamless with Itac increasing its output and its customer base at a stroke.

Before acquiring Borden's aqueous business, in a separate agreement with Crispin Adhesives Limited, last year, Itac had taken steps to expand its position in the solvent based pressure sensitive adhesives market. The deal saw Itac purchase the Technical Development Programme from Crispin Adhesives.

Paul Armitt, Managing Director of Itac had this to say:

"These acquisitions, were simply too good to miss. We are well known for our wide range of products and are now the UK's largest independent manufacturer of both aqueous and solvent based adhesives to the pressure sensitive adhesive markets. Our bulk manufacturing ability has increased plus our specialist knowledge. Our customers are already seeing real benefits that will undoubtedly reap business rewards for them and us in the future'."

Mum I’m here

Itac has always been a family orientated company, that is why the great grandson of the founder Paul Armitt is still very much in the driving seat. So when another opportunity to employ 2 generations from one family came up, Operations jumped at the chance. At Itac it has traditionally been a case of father and son however in this instance it is mother and daughter!.

Mother, Dorothy Rigby has been a long standing member of the Itac team as an Industrial Hygiene Specialist and Daughter Janet Robinson is in the temporary position of QC Chemist. Janet and Dorothy along with our Father and Son team members on the shop floor makes it quite a family affair!

It’s an Open and Shut Case

Now orange is not everybody’s favorite colour but here we at Itac are quite partial to the colour, which is just as well as it forms a crucial part of our company logo. So when our Works Engineer was directed to arrange installation of new automatic doors fitted with infra red sensors for the factory it seemed an omen when he was told we could have them in any colour as long as it was orange!

On a more serious note however the installation of the doors will provide us with a cost saving on heating and electricity bills (which is a definite plus). In addition they remove the need to keep opening and shutting the main doors (being heavy and cumbersome) every time the fork lift truck wants to load a vehicle or go into the bund area. So it is an open and shut case, let’s hear it for the doors!

Trumpet skills linked to IIP

There is nothing like blowing your own trumpet especially when it has to do with recognition from a respected organisation. With this in mind we are very pleased to announce receipt of an award that recognises Itac's continuing commitment to meet the requirements for the National Standard for Investors in People. This award was presented to our Financial Controller, Mr David Tattum at a special award ceremony held at Bolton and Bury Business Link.

This is Itac's 4th year in succession of sustained accreditation. It has always been intended that IIP helps to set the standard for both our internal and external customers. Allowing our employees to continue to improve their skills and knowledge ensures a more efficient and proactive organisation.

Multiplication and Extraction

In a continued effort to improve and update our production facilities, a new extraction system has recently been commissioned in the dry compounding department.
This new equipment not only improves the working environment for the operators but also allows us to maximise on the capacity this department has to offer.

Out-sourced material can be brought back in house which improves margins and customers gain by getting a better service through shorter turn around periods.

Another win/win situation.

Whilst the main function of the dry mix dept. is to prepare compound for wet mixing, the extra capacity now available can be offered to customers for development work or could even be used to enhance the confidential toll manufacturing service already available.

Multiplication and Extraction

In a continued effort to improve and update our production facilities, a new extraction system has recently been commissioned in the dry compounding department.

Out-sourced material can be brought back in house which improves margins and customers gain by getting a better service through shorter turn around periods.

Another win/win situation.

Whilst the main function of the dry mix dept. is to prepare compound for wet mixing, the extra capacity now available can be offered to customers for development work or could even be used to enhance the confidential toll manufacturing service already available.

Better Reception Improves Performance!

There have been many well published studies relating to the effect your office environment has on your ability to work effectively and efficiently. It is well proven that motivation and performance can directly be associated with decor. For instance in Feng-Shui, a carefully placed mirror or potted plant can provide a 'positive Chi’ promoting anything from increased prosperity to ensuring a feeling of wellbeing.

BEFORE

AFTER The recent renovations undertaken in our reception have resulted in the opportunity to re-decorate, creating a warm welcoming environment for visitors as well as a calm and positive office for our Finance / Administration department.

Our works engineer Mick McVeigh

The recent renovations undertaken in our reception have resulted in the opportunity to re-decorate, creating a warm welcoming environment for visitors as well as a calm and positive office for our Finance / Administration department.

Our works engineer Mick McVeigh
has excelled in his interior designer skills and has created a reception that is functional and light which could easily have come out of the pages of House and Home!

Itac Phone Home

Results of the recently completed Customer Satisfaction Evaluation have provided one or two suggestions where we feel some simple but effective improvements can be made. One of these improvements, suggested by an important customer was easily implemented.

This was to install a mobile hands free phone in the cab of our Itac lorry, thereby allowing Alan to make customers aware of any hold ups in delivering their orders.

In addition, should there be a problem where a customer may run out of materials causing production to stop, the phone allows us to contact Alan for any necessary re-routing. It is important to point out at this stage that this is a fully hands free system, complying with traffic legislation of course.

Customer Satisfaction Evaluation Results

Having recently completed the Customer Satisfaction Evaluation, we are very pleased to see that our customers still have a high regard for Itac as a supplier, and we would like to gratefully acknowledge all those customers that took the time to participate in the telephone questionnaire. The most common suggestions to come out of the evaluations involved improvements to communication - install a mobile phone in the driver’s cab, offer the potential for on-line ordering and e:mail facility.
The first suggestion has been very quickly implemented and there is now a mobile phone installed in the lorry as shown above. The potential for on-line ordering has always been available through the website in some way, so if any of our clients feel they want e:mail us any orders you can e.mail us at sales@itac.uk.com or just click on Karen/Carol on the Contact Us page on the website - simple really.
Please let us know if you would like to see the evaluation results - we will be happy to send you a copy.

Its as easy as IBC

The continued improvement of products and services supplied to our internal and external customers is considered a never ending process. It however is not always easy to find ways of adding value or reducing costs and yet we feel we may have achieved this quite successfully with the introduction of IBC’s (Integral Bulk Containers).
	Customers who purchase products in larger quantities (1000 Litre lots) can save money by using these re-usable packing containers rather than 200 Litre drums, (which are limited to how many times they can be re-used before disposal). The IBC’s are hired rather than purchased thereby reducing costs still further and are returned to us once empty for re-filling. In addition, the use of IBC’s reduces the need for handling and saves space when storing whilst assisting the customer to improve on general housekeeping.

A Man of Many Hats

We have always been very proud of our 100 year heritage here at Itac and our involvement with and contribution to the UK Adhesives and Coating Industry. This commitment has been very much underlined with our continued membership to BASA (British Adhesives and Sealants Association) and Paul Armitt’s election in May 2001 to the BASA Chairmanship.
Paul feels that this will enable him to raise the profile of SME’s within the association, as well as allowing a closer integration with our European counterparts through FEICA. FEICA’s main edict is to co-operate closely with the strongest associations in Europe to improve resources for the benefit of the entire European Industry. It is Paul’s role to ensure that not only are we a key player in any new strategy but that any pertinent information is immediately communicated back to the BASA membership.

In from the Cold

Anyone who prides themselves on their knowledge of environmental issues will be aware of the Kyoto Protocol and its attempt to reduce harmful gases being released into the atmosphere. This is being achieved by asking the International Community to reduce emissions below the 1990 levels by 12.5% for 2008-2012. As a result of this protocol the UK has committed to reduce emissions below 1990 levels by 23% for 2010. Part of this commitment is imposing strict regulations on Companies that produce Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) as a waste product of their normal manufacturing process.

Itac in response to these regulations have now installed a new extraction and chiller system which have enabled us to comply with these new regulations.

As a bonus it is hoped the new systems will provide a dramatic saving on solvent costs over a 12 month period as less of the solvent mix is burned off into the atmosphere. In addition it is expected that due to this saving on solvents the products are expected to be manufactured quicker as adjustments are not required through burn off.

An Environmentally Friendly Partnership

As a manufacturer of specialist adhesives for our clients we are only too aware of the implications of any hazardous waste products. So in keeping with our commitment to provide a total service, we can arrange disposal of our customers chemical waste along with our own, a regular shipment of around 80x200 litre drums are disposed of at a time.
This service relieves our clients of a complicated and costly task, one which we undertake on a regular basis and therefore can offer piece of mind at a realistic price. This coupled with any environmental and/or health and safety regulations provides our clients with many benefits.
This may be considered a small additional service but as part of the whole, it demonstrates to our clients that we are a partner that cares.

Itac Invests In Its People

Wendy Finch - Accounts Assistant

We would like to wish Wendy Finch our very own Accounts Assistant good luck in studying to become a Member of the Association of Accounting Technicians. Wendy is currently undertaking the first year of a 3 year Diploma Course which she is doing in her own time twice a week in the evenings, that's commitment for you.

We would like to wish Wendy Finch our very own Accounts Assistant good luck in studying to become a Member of the Association of Accounting Technicians. Wendy is currently undertaking the first year of a 3 year Diploma Course which she is doing in her own time twice a week in the evenings, that's commitment for you.

NEW TRUCK FOR ITAC - any colour as long as it's black.

Itac has recently taken delivery of a brand new wagon. The new 15,000 kg Iveco truck is ideal for its purpose and is already regularly dispatching Itac products throughout the UK.
Easily distinguished from its white predecessor, the truck has black livery which makes the orange itac logo really stand out.
However, one draw back about a black vehicle is that it actually requires more frequent washing than a white one.
But then again, Itac should really 'clean up' with the extra publicity it receives.

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