As part of the new “America First” slogan, the White House recently reiterated that any pipeline materials used for projects in the United States with federal funds would need to be US materials. The energy sector is feeling the pressure to not only come up with pipes made in the USA but to find pipe suppliers who use US steel. This is all part of the massive infrastructure plan designed to both boost manufacturing and energy industry jobs.
Regardless of the economics behind buying steel from certain places, the idea behind it is something that has resonated in the American psyche for many, many years. One of the reasons cited for using American made products is the innovation and quality behind the products. And innovation is certainly where we can all agree that many of our products do it best.
When we as manufacturers and engineers make better products, it is because we are experienced with the field and thoughtful about the applications we can create to make the process more efficient. This process goes beyond understanding the science behind the product – it involves real world experience in the field. How does an operator actually use this machine? How does a sampler take the product and measure it? Knowing the answers to questions like these leads to creative innovations that change the field.
Komax has always promoted working with clients on real-world applications for products and processes. Sometimes clients will come to us with a specific application issue or problem in the field and we will work to resolve the issue. Often, we will invite clients to participate in an on-site demonstration of a new product or process that has specific benefits to the industry. Our country and our industry benefits greatly from innovation and experience, whether that is pipe made here in the USA or innovative designs with worldwide applications.