AHMEEK, MI. – Early-stage manufacturer Neuvokas Corporation,
in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, has secured over $2.8 million in funding to
develop a new technology. This new technology is capable of producing Fiber
Reinforced Polymer rebar used in the construction industry. The funding will
also support job creation and on-the-job training for new employees over the
course of the next two years.
Neuvokas makes FRP rebar
under the trademarked name – GatorBar. This product is made through a novel
manufacturing process of combining fiber with a matrix resin. The method used
to produce GatorBar provides a more efficient way to manufacture a, rust-free
rebar product with an extended service life of up to 20 times the current
standard (steel) with cost savings on labor and freight. GatorBar also enables
a 30% reduction in concrete usage and less CO2 emissions. The product is at or
near price parity with black steel – a task that has eluded FRP manufactures
for over 30 years.
“My
experience in manufacturing and process development allowed me to recognize an
opportunity to make an existing product more efficiently,” said Erik
Kiilunen, CEO of Neuvokas Corporation. “Using the improved controls and
raw materials available today we’ve increased process speed for FRP rebar 3x
already and have a 15x increase projected within 6 months.”
To
read the rest of the story, click on http://www.sbdcmichigan.org/2015/05/14/neuvokas/
