Bespoke recessed swing handle saves cost and production time

Groupe Atlantic was developing its new Varmax range of boilers and the company wanted a recessed swing handle for the access cover; this needed to provide security yet be opened using standard tools. Furthermore, the handle had to be adaptable to different panel thicknesses.

Essentra Components took time to understand the project requirements, working closely with the customer to design an ergonomic handle that met everything in the specification. As well as designing the handle, Essentra Components managed all other aspects of the project, from tooling to production. Included within the scope of supply was a silicon isolation cap to help fix the insulation around the main boiler part.

Adrien Baudoux, a Project Buyer at Groupe Atlantic, comments: "We had a considerable challenge in producing our new range, but Essentra Components took a fresh and innovative approach with a solution to our needs, meaning we save valuable time and money."

Compared with handles that Groupe Atlantic has used on previous boilers, the new bespoke handle saves production time by rationalising components and provides more security for end users by helping to prevent unauthorised access. Where appropriate, special reinforcement has been incorporated within the handle's design, yet the handle can still be opened using standard tools to provide quick access for servicing. Importantly, the bespoke handle actually costs less than Groupe Atlantic was paying a previous supplier for standard recessed swing handles.

Groupe Atlantic has also benefited by reducing the number of suppliers it uses and is, therefore, enjoying cost reductions. Essentra Components is continuing to provide ongoing support by having a dedicated Account Manager who provides access to technical support, and the company is also holding buffer stocks to ensure the swing handle is always available for the Varmax boilers - and will remain so in the future.

Adrien Baudoux concludes: "Essentra Components has made a real effort to understand our challenges, which made choosing them as our strategic provider easy."

Contact Essentra Components for more information about bespoke products.