The Rocker Switch Is More Comfortable Than Ever

October 28/2020 – Nieuwegein The Netherlands – Translas, is a Dutch manufacturer of welding torches since 1960. A company founded by welders, for welders with a passion for innovation and new technologies, continually striving to engineer innovative products that boast a distinctive design and quality and functionality. The company’s goal is to reduce welders’ exposure to hazardous fumes globally and provide a healthier and safer work environment.

About Welding Fumes: Prolonged exposure is like inhaling ultrafine metal dust which can lead to cancer of the lung, damage to the brain and kidney damage. Certain gases, such as helium, carbon dioxide and argon, displace oxygen and argon can pose suffocation risks, particularly in enclosed work areas. For this reason, Translas, a Dutch welding torch manufacturer, developed fume welding torches – 7XE, 8XE MIG and 8TE TIG Extractors – that extracts the welding fumes directly at the source up to 98%.

The 8XE MIG Extractor integrates the most efficient fume extraction structure in the welding industry. The torch comes with three different angles, 30° – 45° and straight.
The 8XE MIG Extractor, combined with the ClearO2 W-series 100 and 200, captures up to 98% of welding fumes directly at the source. The 8XE MIG Extractor provides the safest and most effective solution for welders and workers to breathe CLEAN AIR and better work environments. The 8XE Extractor balljoint has a 30° vertical angular movement combined with 360° swivelling. Both with a full stop. Providing excellent maneuverability and leaving cables and hoses untwisted and thereby leakage and breakage free. This combination is new to the market.

The New 8TE-17 Air Cooled and 8TE-30 Water cooled TIG Extractor protect the welders and other workers in the factory from harmful fumes and metals like Aluminium, Chromium, Iron, Manganese and Nickel which are possibly released during the welding process. The 8TE TIG Extractor has a unique ergonomic shape designed to suit the shape of the welder’s hand, fitting perfectly between the thumb and index fingers. The 8TE TIG Extractor engineered to work with the clearO2 T100 and T200 portable units to deliver the best results – up to 95% extraction of welding fumes directly at the source.

As of this year, Translas opens its third division. The new entity, officially called Translas Canada Industries Ltd., is located in Woodstock, Canada and aims to serve the whole Canadian market.

Manufacturing environments will become cleaner and safer throughout Canada with Translas’ new Woodstock division. Serving the single welder to hundreds of welders, Translas Canada Industries has a comprehensive line of products and services to improve air quality and plant productivity. These include compact mobile units and welding torches with integrated fume extraction to complete fixed solutions for your plant, creating a safer environment for any workforce.

Speaking about Translas’ growth, Jelmer Wolleswinkel, Commercial Director: “Businesses that bring new ideas and innovative solutions to the market are growing. We identified a few markets where we know Translas can make an important contribution to the success of key manufacturing segments. Canada fits our growth and strategic plans perfectly so we’re happy to be a part of the manufacturing community here”.

Duncan Beaumont

Duncan Beaumont is the new Executive Director for Translas Canada Industries, serving the whole of Canada. He brings more than 15 years of project management, sales and leadership experience in the Canadian industrial sector and over eight years in the welding, fabrication and fume extraction industry. In his current role at TCI, he helps the welding & fabrication sector select and implement air quality solutions to mitigate health and safety risks and ensure regulatory compliance. With a deep understanding of evolving regulations and Hi-Vac collection technologies, he works with companies to balance regulatory, economic and health and safety needs and design the best overall system for their goals.

Translas Canada Industries is a solution provider for the welding & fabrication industry. They supply welding torches and fume extraction torches with highly efficient, reliable and cost-effective systems. Applications include mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, MIG & TIG manual and robotic welding. Their expertise and resources can be applied to almost any welding process in the manufacturing environment.

For more information about Translas Canada Industries, visit www.translas.ca .

Dear [VOORNAAM],

We would like to thank you for working with Translas in 2018. We have had a great year and thanks to our customers, suppliers, and partners, we were able to grow successfully and extend our philosophy in designing and creating better products which help the safety and comfort of the welder. Our slogan by welders, for welders is not created for marketing purposes only. We really do listen to the welders and create our products based on their needs.

Translas has worked hard in 2018 to update our fume extraction program. The brand ”ClearO2” has been born and we now have a complete fume extraction units program existing, from one-welder up to four-welder units. Furthermore, our latest 8XT TIG line has become state-of-the-art with more module options and availability in several colours.

Another happening of big importance this year was the opening of Translas UK Ltd. in Preston, United Kingdom, in March.

“Having started the business March 2018, we have made great progress through hard work , determination and support from our Dutch colleagues. “ – Gary Keene, Executive Director, Translas UK Ltd.

In 2019, Translas is preparing for another year of steady grow. The focus on the fume extraction range will be increased and new products will be launched to extend the range to be covering more welding process so that all welders can work safely.

Herewith, we would like to wish you a very happy Christmas time with your family and loved ones and a happy and, even more, a healthy 2019! Our team is looking forward to working with you again.

Kindest regards,
Team Translas

23-26 October 2018
Hall 13, Stand G57

Translas has extended its product range and now offers a whole line of mobile filtration units under the name ClearO2. All ClearO2 units are designed to work with the 7XE Extractor fume torch from Translas. The complete line of high-vacuum units ClearO2 as well as the newest extraction torches will be presented for the first time at EuroBLECH 2018. You will be able to see them with a live demo in Hall 13, booth G57.

Read more about the solution

About EuroBLECH: From 23 – 26 October 2018, the 25th International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition will open its doors again in Hanover, Germany. Amongst sheet metal working specialists, the show is renowned as the key marketplace to find the latest equipment and services in all areas of sheet metal working.

The exhibition presents the entire sheet metal working technology chain: sheet metal, semi-finished and finished products, handling, separation, forming, flexible sheet metal working, joining, additive manufacturing, welding and surface treatment, processing of hybrid structures, tools, quality control, CAD/CAM/CIM systems and R&D. At EuroBLECH, some 1,550 exhibitors from 40 countries present their cutting-edge technology live to a worldwide audience of some 60,000 trade visitors.

The AirForce V3 is a novelty in the personal protection equipment. It provides air 50x cleaner than the air in the immediate area

The biggest benefit of the system is its multi-use: because of the easy flip-up helmet, it is convenient for various applications, namely for welding, grinding and cutting. The welder can now have one universal piece of personal protection for all applications.

For the welders who insist on a high-level of protection, the optional new gas filter and improved HD battery offer secure protection from harmful fumes and gases for increased amount of time (from 5 to up to 15 hours and 550 charges battery life).

• Easy flip-up
• Optical class 1/1/1/1
• Comfortable to wear
• Suitable for grinding and cutting
• Intelligent air supply
• Matte helmet finish for unique look

Download product brochure here.

Now available for order.

The new fume extraction unit Clear02 W100 is developed to make the job of the welder safer and easier. The machine has been made to work with the 7XE Extractor welding torches from Translas. It is light and mobile, which makes it the perfect companion for the welder who needs to move and change work locations.

With an active filter surface of 5m² and a self-cleaning function, the W100 unit requires minimum effort to maintain. It is available with power supply for 220V-240V and 400V-480V, which makes it suitable to use at any geographic location worldwide.

The Clear02 will be available in stock in the second half of June 2018. For direct pre-orders, contact our team:

Translas is Again Awarded ISO 9001:2015

Our decision to work towards ISO 9001:2015 accreditation every year demonstrates our commitment to providing a high-quality consistent service to our client and our ongoing investment in technology, development and processes and procedures.

Download ISO certificate

Our Privacy Statement

According to the new European privacy Law, GDPR, we are obliged to show you we protect your data and use it wisely. We work mainly with company data and we collect limited personal data, only to make sure we are in touch with the correct person. Read our privacy statement to know what we use your data for:

Read Privacy Statement

If you ever wish to adjust your data which you have provided us with, you can always do that via the following link: Change your profile. The link you will always be able to find at the bottom of each newsletter you receive from us.

We’d be happy to answer any of your questions regarding how we use your data. Just shoot us an email. ?

We are proud to announce that from 1st March 2018, Translas is expanding to the United Kingdom, where we have established Translas UK Limited.

About Translas UK Limited

Translas UK Limited is based in Preston, North-Western England. It is a fully independent entity with own stock position. The company has to offer all Translas products as well as a complete range of fume extraction equipment for different production environments. Next to the Translas torches, you will be able to see mobile extraction units, purification systems and quality extraction arms – everything you need for your welding workshop.

Exclusive Dealer

Translas UK Ltd. and Translas B.V. in the Netherlands are now exclusive European resellers of the products from RoboVent Solution Group, which specializes in clean air solutions.

“The full-line of dust collection equipment by RoboVent fits nicely with our existing product line and we’re excited to begin offering more integrated solutions to our respective customers. This new direction aligns well with our existing growth plans, especially in the UK.” – Jeroen Boer, Managing Director Translas.

The UK Team

The team in Preston can give you complete customer support, from advice for your workshop to turnkey installations. The team consists of:

Gary Keene 
Executive Director
32 years of technical and sales experience in the fume extraction and welding industry.

Kevin Tatton 
Sales Manager
18 years of experience in the fume extraction and welding industry

Claire Chadwick  
Office Manager
28 years of project management experience in the fume extraction and welding industry

Neil Wadhams  
Business Development Manager
12 years of experience in sales and business development

Our highly-skilled UK team is happy to serve you with their proficiency and expertise. Feel free to contact them with all of your questions via the local office line (+44) 1772 626323 or with an email to info-UK@translas.com.

Kindest regards,

Team Translas UK

We are proud to have been again awarded ISO 9001:2015 certification – an internationally recognized standard that ensures our services meet the needs of clients and suppliers through an effective quality management system.

Our decision to work towards ISO 9001:2015 accreditation every year demonstrates our commitment to providing a high-quality consistent service to our client and our ongoing investment in technology, development and processes and procedures.

Request ISO-certificate

The New Generation Torches 8XM MIG Now In Stock

The new ergonomic and durable 8XM MIG are now on stock. The new 8XM MIG torches, with 2K rubber grip and durable structure, can be seen on our website and online catalogue. For quotes, orders and for more information , please, contact us via sales@translas.com or +31(0) 30 604 – 73 73.

See the 8XM line

Exhibitions in 2018

Meet our products at exhibitions around the world. At some we will be participating personally with a selected team, such as at EuroBLECH in Hanover and at MachTech in Bulgaria. At other exhibitions, you will be able to see our products exhibited by one of our exclusive dealers. Check the schedule on our website and see if we are coming to your country:

Welding Exhibitions 2018

Time has gone fast. Christmas is approaching and 2017 is almost behind us. It is time to make the balance and to look back at everything that happened during this exciting year.

Unfortunately, life brings not only good but also sad moments. Translas, and in particular the Boer family, had to deal with the loss of, the company founder and father, Mr John Boer. Mr. Boer passed away in May this year at the age of 82. John has given his whole life for the company. Luckily, he could also enjoy travelling with his wife Loes. From 1995 till 2008, they travelled the United States of America and Canada on their motorhome. This was their passion and we are happy they could enjoy it for so many years. We will always remember John & Loes for what they did for us as as company, but mainly, as loving father and mother.

For Translas, 2017 was a fantastic year. The company presentation at the exhibition Schweiβen & Schneiden in Düsseldorf was a major goal. We believe we presented ourselves in a way we never did before. Being located amongst the biggest companies in the industry and the high traffic of people on our booth, made it an incredible experience. In Düsseldorf, we presented our brand new MIG and TIG torch lines – 8XM and 8XT. The reactions of the visitors to the torches as well as to our overall presentation, were more than positive. We are convinced that in 2018 many of you will meet and see this new line of torches and you can judge yourself.

Do you want to take a look at the new torches already? Our new catalogue for 2018 is available online at www.translas.com and as a hardcopy by your request.

2018 has to start yet but we are already excited to make it even better than what 2017 was already. We are ready to serve you at any time and let’s make all a great year out of 2018.

Edwin, Jelmer and Jeroen & the whole Translas team wish you very Happy Christmas holidays with your loved ones and all the best wishes for 2018!

Kindest regards,

Jeroen Boer

Managing Director

Translas BV

Schweissen & Schneiden 2017 was a great success for Translas! During the show we pre-launched the two new torch lines – 8XM MIG & 8XT TIG.

The 8th generation of welding torches, with its ergonomics and durability, makes the everyday work of the welder even easier and more comfortable. The new MIG & TIG lines were met with enthusiasm from the visitors on the stand.

There was also a very high interest in the new AirForce PAPR V3 with a flip-up helmet, suitable for various kinds of work, while keeping the air of the welder 50x cleaner than the air in the environment.

To get some impression of our stand and presentation, see the photos below:

If you have any questions and want more information about the 8XM, 8XT or other new products, feel free to contact our team:

If you have any questions and want more information about the 8XM, 8XT or other new products, feel free to contact our team:

info@translas.com

+31(0) 30 – 604 73 73

Best regards,

Translas Team

Tijdens de grootste Europese vakbeurs op lasgebied, ‘Schweissen & Schneiden 2017’, zal Translas een nieuwe generatie MIG & TIG lastoortsen introduceren.

De nieuwe 8XM MIG-toortslijn heeft een onderscheidend ontwerp en tal van verbeteringen, zoals een stabiele grip en een bredere schakelaar. Deze nieuwe duurzame lastoorts onderscheidt zich met een hoog comfort.

Translas zal daarnaast ook de nieuwe lijn 8XT TIG-lastoortsen met een ultra-ergonomisch design introduceren. De handgreep van de 8XT elimineert spanning op de pols. De vergulde veerpencontacten zorgen voor een optimaal contact met de machine zonder het risico op onderbrekingen.

Bezoek ons tijdens ‘Schweissen & Schneiden’ op stand 9B20 in hal 9 en ervaar het comfort van deze nieuwe ultra-ergonomisch ontworpen lastoortsen!

Binnenkort beschikbaar
25/09/2017

Nieuwe catalogus en prijslijst vanaf 1 oktober beschikbaar

Tijdens de beurs in Düsseldorf zijn beide nieuwe toortslijnen in onze catalogus beschikbaar voor pre-order. Binnen enkele weken kunt u de bijgewerkte prijslijst ontvangen, waarin alle nieuwe productintroducties zijn opgenomen. De prijslijst is geldig vanaf 1 oktober 2017.

Met vriendelijke groet,
Team Translas BV

Translas now offers a whole range of fume extraction torches as well as a complete fume extraction solution. The hi-vac extraction solution consists of a 7XE Extractor fume torch & ProCube™– a high-vac filtering unit.

MIG fume extraction torches are now available in air- and water-cooled versions, as well as with a highly flexible hose which makes them even more manoeuvrable than a regular MIG torch. More options include small XS size torch with a metal swan neck.

Extraction at the source needs high-speed extraction and low air volumes to efficiently remove the fumes. The high-end solution – 7XE Extractor & ProCube™ – includes advanced design features that enable maximum fume suction, while easing the work of the operator who does not need to adjust the flow rate of the shielding gas and can effortlessly transport the system to the location needed.

Click on the button below to see the most popular fume extraction products:

Who is Fume Extraction for?

The on-torch fume extraction is suitable for various applications. A fume extraction torch can be used on its own at any location. For larger welding areas, such as workshops, it can be connected to a ducted extraction system or combined with ProCube™. The advantage of the on-torch fume extraction, when compared to traditional systems is that the operator is easily mobile, not needing to consider the extraction hood.

Do you need a special extraction solution? Contact us for an advice: info@translas.com / +31(0)30 – 604 73 73.

Welders are exposed to welding fumes for extended periods of time. This strongly increases the chance of respiratory problems and leads to decreased productivity.

In this video, RTLZ, the Dutch TV business news program, reports on the experience of working with the 7XE Extractor fume extraction torch, by Translas:

“People are happy to work now” – Hans van Rangelrooij, Stainless Solutions Group

Source: RTLZ – Dutch TV Program

Say ‘no’ to the hazards from welding fumes

Thanks to the recent developments in the welding torch technology, welding fumes can now be eliminated to almost 100%. See how…

Read article

2017 has almost arrived and it promises to be a year full of new challenges and positive developments. But first, Translas wants to look back at a successful 2016.

A year in which we have worked hard on the continued development of our welding torches. Our torches have made welding healthier for the welder and they have also made it possible to weld difficult-to-reach locations and under hard conditions with a high amperage. To achieve this, Translas has invested heavily in its machinery and 3D printing technology.

For the coming year, we can look ahead to the presentation of the next generation of MIG and TIG welding torches, which we will be introducing during the Schweiβen und Schneiden trade fair in September. We are currently working very hard on the development of this new 8XM and 8XT series. Translas will also present a new flip-up welding helmet and many other innovations and upgrades at this trade fair.

There is more than enough to look forward to. These are all very positive developments, which makes us look forward to 2017 with great confidence.

The Translas team wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

The new member in the Force family has arrived – the Force 300 welding helmet! The new Force 300 welding helmet is a helmet for universal use and at a great price.

The helmet is fully automatic and it covers a range of applications – from Stick welding and MIG/MIG to low amperage TIG welding and grinding. Its unique modern design and light weight – only 440 g – make it a pleasure to wear during your welding work. The helmet is available also for private labelling.

Due to the Christmas holidays, the Force 300 will be offered at a special price for all orders placed till 31st December 2016! Are you interested in pricing and conditions? Ask our team:

Ask our team for more info

Hans Baas is leaving Translas

Hans Baas will be leaving Translas after a period of 12 years. Hans is

ready to rise to a new challenge in his career and will be continuing his employment at Kemetyl in Soest, a manufacturer and distributor of professional cleaning and maintenance products for the (automotive) industry. Hans has been of tremendous value to Translas over the past

12 years and has always been fully committed to the company.

We would therefore like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Hans for the

past 12 years and would like to take this opportunity to wish him all the very best at his new employer!

When we asked Hans whether he would like to add a personal note, his answer was as follows:

“I have greatly enjoyed working at Translas over the past 12 years and I would like to start off by wishing all of my colleagues all the very best for the future. I would also like to thank Translas’ customers for the very enjoyable working relationship and pleasant contact”.

Translas starts a strategic partnership with RoboVent

During EuroBLECH in Hanover last week, Translas officially announced the start of a partnership with the North American leader in clean air – RoboVent. The plan of the two companies is to help each other expand on both continents and includes various projects. We will be integrating our product lines to deliver exceptional fume extraction solutions.

“We have been looking for a suitable partner for our products for long time. Our mission and vision about minimizing health risks for welders match with the ones of RoboVent. We believe this is the reason why the fume extraction machines of RoboVent work perfectly with the 7XE Extractor welding torch of Translas.”, says Jelmer Wolleswinkel, Commercial Director at Translas B.V.

After introducing the 7XE Extractor to the North American market, RoboVent is now actively working together with Translas throughout Europe. They have already developed the ProCube, a fume extraction unit designed specifically to pair with the 7XE Extractor.

The next step of the partnership is to develop additional fume extraction machines suitable for the European market. Translas is going to participate by giving its know-how derived from 55 years of experience in the welding market in Europe.

“Our goal is to significantly improve the health of welders around the world by creating innovative and sustainable solutions against welding fumes.”, states Jeroen Boer, Managing Director Translas B.V.

Meet the 7XE ExtractorFlex

The other novelty Translas presented during EuroBLECH was the second line of fume extraction torches – 7XE ExtractorFlex. The Flex line is characterized by 50% more flexible hose.

The 7XE ExtractorFlex was presented for the very first time to the public last week. It received enormous amount of attention, positive feedback as well as direct first orders. The Flex is mainly appreciated in situations when the welder needs to constantly switch positions and angles. When welding with a torch with regular hose, this results in tension and, possibly, even pain in the wrist. With the Flex the tension in the wrist from the daily work is minimized.

The Flex has an extra layer of leather protection which can be partially or completely covering the hose, according to your needs.

Are you interested in trying out the new 7XE ExtractorFlex?

Click here to request a free demo.

4 nozzles for different applications

Both 7XE Extractor and 7XE ExtractorFlex are available with the four new nozzles – 10mm, 12mm Standard, 14mm and 14mm Special. You can switch the nozzles in seconds. Thus, the range of application is broadened to almost any single need you might have as a welder.

10mm

Suitable for most common applications. Provides focused shielding gas flow and immediate removal of fume on typical butt-,

t-fillet and lap-joints.

12mm Standard

The standard fume nozzle supplied with each 7XE Extractor / 7XE ExtractorFlex. The nozzles offers slightly wider shielding gas coverage on medium-thickness materials in butt and fillet applications, and outside-corner joints.

14mm

For heavier-thickness, high-current and high-deposition butt- and lap-joint applications, this nozzle offers greater shielding gas coverage to help prevent porosity.

14mm Special

Where space is limited and fit is tight on acute-angled fillet joints, or into steep prepped roots on heavy-thickness butt-joints, this nozzle offers better access and greater shielding gas coverage to reduce porosity.

New Website

We are happy to present our new website. The website is now with completely new look and feel which we feel more in line with. There you are able to find all our products with detailed product sheets, other useful information and you can get in touch with us via our chat function.

In order to easily find the information most relevant to you and your business, we have added the option user type on the main home page. Are you a dealer of welding products, an OEM or an end user? Choose your user type and get straight to the information you need. Are you simply interested in our company? Then you do not need to make any choice.

Dealer panel: As on the previous website, you can still download useful materials, such as manuals, brochures, catalogues and various photos from the dealer panel. If you are not yet registered, you can do it here (hyperlink).

Feel free to visit the website and look around to get acquainted. We would be happy to receive your feedback and answer your questions: info@translas.com .

“A future forward alliance for a healthier and more efficient welding industry”

January 22/2020- Nieuwegein, The Netherlands – Translas, a premier global manufacturer and leader in

on- torch fume extraction, has announced a partnership with GULLCO International Limited. With this partnership, GULLCO will serve as the global distributor of Translas’ newest fume extraction solutions, such as the Translas 7XE Semi-Automatic Fume Extraction welding torch and the ClearO2 W-Series hi-vac units, designed and engineered for welding automation.

on- torch fume extraction, has announced a partnership with GULLCO International Limited. With this partnership, GULLCO will serve as the global distributor of Translas’ newest fume extraction solutions, such as the Translas 7XE Semi-Automatic Fume Extraction welding torch and the ClearO2 W-Series hi-vac units, designed and engineered for welding automation.

As the announcement was made, Translas Canada’s Executive Director Duncan Beaumont commented, “We are very pleased to partner with GULLCO as our global distributor of the Translas fume extraction solutions, the 7XE Semi-Automatic Fume Extractor welding torch in combination with the ClearO2 W-Series hi-ac units. With air quality regulations being a growing concern globally and with automation gaining traction worldwide, we see a strong potential for growth in a wide variety of applications. GULLCO has been a leader for more than 66 years in the automation industry and is a trusted international manufacturer and world supplier of welding automation including welding carriages, cutting carriages and plate beveling machines for automated welding and cutting to global manufacturing brands. GULLCO is an ideal partner for Translas and we look forward to a successful collaborative partnership.”

GULLCO is pleased to work with Translas as a premier partner and to add the 7XE Semi-Automatic Fume Extractor torch and ClearO2 W-Series hi-vac units to their portfolio of products designed with exceptional engineering. According to Nick Drake, GULLCO’s Global Marketing Manager, “GULLCO is enthusiastic to enter into an exclusive distribution agreement with Translas to further influence the welding industry with a future forward alliance.”

Health and Safety Concerns Associated with the Welding Process

Welding fumes contain vapours, a mixture of airborne gas by-products and fine particles. The composition of the mixture depends on the welding method and the products that are welded. The vapours and gases released during welding can lead to serious health problems. Short-term exposure can result in nausea, dizziness, or eye, nose and throat irritation. Prolonged exposure to welding fumes can lead to cancer of the lung, larynx and urinary tract, as well as nervous system and kidney damage. Certain gasses, such as helium, carbon dioxide and argon, displace oxygen and argon can pose suffocation risks, particularly in enclosed work areas.

The Translas 7XE Semi-Automatic Fume Extractor

Extraction at the source proves to be the safest and most effective solution to achieve a healthier work environment. The Translas 7XE Semi-Automatic Fume Extractor is a welding torch engineered to capture hazardous welding fumes directly at the source. The Translas fume extraction solution extracts up to 95% of the welding fumes directly at the source. When using the Translas 7XE in combination with the ClearO2 W-Series hi-vac units, the harmful welding fumes and individual particulates are no longer released directly into the air; they are captured immediately as generated.

Link to videos:

Translas 7XE Fume Extractor welding guns and GULLCO Moggy® Automated Trackless Welding Carriage in action
Translas 7XE Fume Extractor welding gun on source fume extraction nozzle closeup

The Clear O2 W-Series Mobile Filtration Hi-Vac Units:

The ClearO2 mobile filtration units are designed to accompany the 7XE Semi-Automatic Fume Extractor torches and work efficiently in combination with the GULLCO KAT® or Moggy®.
The 7XE Semi-Automatic Fume Extractor and the ClearO2 hi-vac units offer powerful filtration with an efficiency > IFA 99.8%. The units are compact, lightweight and mobile, making it easy to change locations on the job.

About Translas – “Engineering the new standards by welders for welders”
Translas is a Dutch manufacturer of welding guns since 1960, founded “by welders, for welders” with a passion for innovation and new technologies. We engineer innovative products that boast a distinctive design as well as quality and functionality.

Welders’ safety is of paramount importance to Translas. The company’s goal is to globally reduce
workers’ exposure to hazardous fumes and to provide a healthier and safer work environment, therefore establishing higher productivity and profitability. Some of our pioneering products include fume extractor guns with a built-in module to safely extract welding fumes at the source and portable extraction units.

Translas has grown at a fast pace over the last few years. With the recent opening of Canadian distribution channels the company is focusing on key partnerships with companies utilizing smart technologies globally to influence today’s manufacturing industry towards “the future”.

For more information please contact info@translas.com or visit www.translas.com

About GULLCO

GULLCO International was formed in 1954 to serve the demands of the emerging welding industry in North America. GULLCO is a family owned company, with its world headquarters located in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada. GULLCO International serves the entire world market through its companies in Canada, United States, United Kingdom, India, Australia, and China as well as its strong worldwide distributor network with high quality automated welding machines for welding and cutting applications. GULLCO International is engaged in a continuous research and development program to provide weld automation equipment and systems geared to the fast-changing needs of the welding industry and equipment that can stand up to the tough environments in the field. GULLCO is dedicated to providing productivity, cost savings, durability and service. KAT®, Moggy®, SAM®, KBM® and KATBAK® are registered trademarks of GULLCO Enterprises Limited.

For more information please visit www.gullco.com

Media Contact:

Irina Pljusznyin
Global Marketing Manager
Translas
irina@translas.com
+1 226-298-0732

Translas – the Dutch welding torch manufacturer – has extended its product range and now offers a whole line of mobile filtration units under the name ClearO2. All ClearO2 units are designed to work with the 7XE Extractor fume torch from Translas. The complete line of high-vacuum units ClearO2 as well as the newest extraction torches will be presented for the first time at EuroBLECH 2018. You will be able to see them with a live demo in Hall 13, booth G57.

The 7XE Extractor with a ClearO2 unit capture between 90% and 95% of welding fumes at the source and filter these with an efficiency > IFA 99.8%.

Insufficient extraction at most fabricators

Welding fumes contain vapours, gases and smoke particles that form a health hazard. People assume that local extraction arms, extraction hoods and mobile filters adequately protect welders against exposure to welding fumes. But in practice these measures tend to be insufficiently effective: not only for the welders themselves, but also for others working in the same area.

The safest method: extraction at the source

Extraction at the source proves to be the safest solution because harmful welding fumes are no longer released directly into the air breathed by personnel, as found by the Dutch research institute TNO.

The 7XE Extractor reduces the amount of welding fumes in the workplace to less than 1 mg/m3 during an 8-hour working day (the statutory standard for welding fumes in Germany is 1,25 mg/m3). The 7XE Extractor can be used for almost any MIG/MAG welding process.

7XE Extractor with integrated fume extraction

The extraction torches from Translas feature a built-in extraction module at the gas nozzle. The gas nozzle is conical with a gas orifice of 12 mm. This gives an excellent view and accessibility to the weld. The 7XE Extractor is a very light torch – varies from only 1,1 kg to 1,5 kg (lighter than a regular 510 torch). Due to the small size of the handle and its ergonomic form, the welder does not feel any difference between the 7XE Extractor and a standard welding torch.

7XE MINI Extractor weighs only 1.1 kg and has a small in size handle and nozzle as well as small conical hose (from 30 mm to 38 mm). It was developed especially for welding jobs where constant changing in positions is required, such as in manual automotive welding.

The extraction torches from Translas can be ordered with a plastic or with a metal neck. The metal neck is preferred for higher-impact environments (7XE MINI Extractor is available only with metal neck).

All 7XE Extractor torches , both gas and water cooled, are with 100% Duty Cycle.

On-torch needs ‘high vacuum’

Extraction at source needs high speed extraction and low air volumes to efficiently remove the fumes. This means that it needs to be connected to a high-vacuum unit, such as one of the ClearO2 units.

Designed especially for the 7XE Extractor fume torch, ClearO2 filtration units are the only portable filtration solution of its size that is rated for high-production welding environments. The 7XE Extractor & ClearO2 filtration solution is a powerful, flexible system that can be used for a variety of welding applications. The size and portability make it excellent choice for high-mobility applications such as shipbuilding or large fabricated components. This high-end solution includes advanced design features that enable maximum fume suction, while easing the work of the operator . The system is effortlessly transported to the location needed.

Demonstration at EuroBLECH

All EuroBLECH visitors are invited for a demonstration of effective welding fume extraction at Translas’ booth in Hall 13, number G57. Translas brings together almost 60 years of expertise in welding torch manufacturing with know-how in welding fume extraction to offer the most effective welding fume solutions to the market.

ClearO2 W100 unit for one-welder with 7XE Extractor

ClearO2 W200 – 2-welder unit

ClearO2 W400 – 4-welder

Nieuwegein, NL, march 2018 – From 1st March 2018, Translas is expanding to the United Kingdom, where we have established Translas UK Limited.

Translas UK Limited is based in Preston, North-Western England. It is a fully independent entity with own stock position. The company has to offer all Translas products as well as a complete range of fume extraction equipment for different production environments. Next to the Translas torches, you will be able to see mobile extraction units, purification systems and quality extraction arms – everything you need for your welding workshop.

Exclusive Dealer

Translas UK and Translas B.V. are now also exclusive European resellers of the products from RoboVent Solution Group, which specializes in clean air solutions.

“The full-line of dust collection equipment by RoboVent fits nicely with our existing product line and we’re excited to begin offering more integrated solutions to our respective customers. This new direction aligns well with our existing growth plans, especially in the UK.” – Jeroen Boer, Managing Director Translas.

The UK Team

The team in Preston can give you complete customer support, from advice for your workshop to turnkey installations. The team consists of:

Gary Keene, Executive Director with 32 years of technical and sales experience in the fume extraction and welding industry.

Kevin Tatton, Sales Manager with 18 years of experience in the fume extraction and welding industry.

Claire Chadwick, Office Manager with 28 years of project management experience in the fume extraction and welding industry.

Neil Wadhams , Business Development Manager with 12 years of experience in sales and business development.

Feel free to contact our highly-skilled UK team with all of your questions via the local office line (+44) 1772 626323 or with an email to info-UK@translas.com.

www.translas.co.uk.

10 november 2017, Nieuwegein – For the first time, Translas, the Dutch welding torch manufacturer, is nominated for The Welding World Awards in the category Best New Welding Product Supplier. We are proud to be nominated among the best in the welding industry.

More about The Welding World Awards: The awards are organized by the Welding World Association for second year in a row. The aim of The Welding World Awards is to seek out examples of being the best at what we do, acknowledging and rewarding those people and companies that provide a good service to their customers and deserve the recognition for it.

If you believe in Translas, give your vote here:

Cast your vote

You have time till 30th November 2017. Every vote counts!

We appreciate your support and we continue working to bring the most sustainable solutions for the welding industry out.

Nieuwegein, Netherlands, October 2017 – During the German welding and cutting trade show ‘Schweißen & Schneiden 2017’, Translas, a manufacturer of welding torches, introduced a new generation of MIG & TIG welding torches. The new line of torches 8XM and 8XT, which by now represent the 8th generation, shine in regard to ergonomics and durability. With this, Translas offers torch lines that make the daily welding work even easier and more comfortable.

An excellent grip, solid construction, low weight, high operational reliability and the pleasant manner in which the torches lie in your hand all form the unique characteristics of both lines of torches.
For example, the handles of both welding torches have been fitted with a new ribbed structure with 2K rubber inlays, which provide an optimal grip on the torch and moreover the torch has been given a unique design. As a result, the introduction of the new line of torches immediately received a very positive response.

The new 8XM MIG welding torch line is comprised of 15 different types, up to a 380 ampere gas-cooled torch and a 550 ampere water-cooled torch. In addition to the grip, the MIG welding torches of the 8XM line have also been equipped with a switch that is 30% larger, enabling easier switching.
The high cooling capacity of the Translas MIG welding torches due to the unique construction of the swan necks has always been a distinguishing feature. Translas additionally claims to achieve 15% better cooling than with traditional swan necks.

Due to their use for more detailed welding work, the feel with which TIG welding torches lie in the welder’s hand is always a deciding factor. During the design of the new 8XT TIG welding torch line, Translas has fully placed the focus on ergonomics. This has resulted in a handle that has been ergonomically designed down to the smallest detail in order to provide the welder with the greatest possible comfort and to eliminate any tension in the wrist or fingers. For this, among others additional grip lines have been added at both the bottom as well as the top side, a bump at the bottom side lies between the thumb and index finger, as a result of which more stability is provided in each welding position.

An additional striking innovation is the possibility of rotating the torch body to three positions: straight as well as 45 degrees to the left and right. In this manner, it is possible to also reach areas that are difficult to access when welding.
In order to increase durability and operational reliability even further, Translas has also optimally shielded the PCB module in the machine contact, preventing the disruptive influence of high frequencies and contamination.

The new torch lines 8XM and 8XT will be delivered worldwide in more than 50 countries via a select dealer network.

4 September 2017, Nieuwegein, NL – During the biggest welding show Schweissen & Schneiden 2017, Translas will exhibit new generation MIG & TIG welding torches.

The new 8XM MIG line has a distinctive design and numerous improvements, such as steady grip and wider switch. The torch offers great comfort and long durability.

Translas will also pre-launch the new 8XT TIG welding torch line with ultra-ergonomic design. With the 8XT any tension on the wrist and fingers is eliminated. The gold-plated spring pin contacts ensure machine contact with no interruptions.

To meet the new torches for the first time, visit Translas at Schweissen & Schneiden:

booth 9B20, Hall 9.
Düsseldorf
25-29.09.2017

Welders are exposed to welding fumes for extended periods of time.

This strongly increases the chance of respiratory problems and leads to decreased productivity.
In this video, RTLZ, the Dutch TV business news program, reports on the experience of working with the 7XE Extractor fume extraction torch, by Translas:

“People are happy to work now” – Hans van Rangelrooij, Stainless Solutions Group

The new member in the Force family has arrived – the Force 300 welding helmet! The new Force 300 welding helmet is a helmet for universal use and at a great price.

The helmet is fully automatic and it covers a range of applications – from Stick welding and MIG/MIG to low amperage TIG welding and grinding. Its unique modern design and light weight – only 440 g – make it a pleasure to wear during your welding work. The helmet is available also for private labelling.

Due to the Christmas holidays, the Force 300 will be offered at a special price for all orders placed till 31st December 2016! Are you interested in pricing and conditions? Ask our team:

Ask our team for more info

During EuroBLECH in Hanover last week, Translas officially announced the start of a partnership with the North American leader in clean air – RoboVent. The plan of the two companies is to help each other expand on both continents and includes various projects. We will be integrating our product lines to deliver exceptional fume extraction solutions.

“We have been looking for a suitable partner for our products for long time. Our mission and vision about minimizing health risks for welders match with the ones of RoboVent. We believe this is the reason why the fume extraction machines of RoboVent work perfectly with the 7XE Extractor welding torch of Translas.”, says Jelmer Wolleswinkel, Commercial Director at Translas B.V.

After introducing the 7XE Extractor to the North American market, RoboVent is now actively working together with Translas throughout Europe. They have already developed the ProCube, a fume extraction unit designed specifically to pair with the 7XE Extractor.

The next step of the partnership is to develop additional fume extraction machines suitable for the European market. Translas is going to participate by giving its know-how derived from 55 years of experience in the welding market in Europe.

“Our goal is to significantly improve the health of welders around the world by creating innovative and sustainable solutions against welding fumes.”, states Jeroen Boer, Managing Director Translas B.V.

Translas will present the 7XE Extractor and its new range of applications before a large international audience at EuroBLECH 2016 in Hannover. Visitors will be able to see the 7XE Extractor in action and will be convinced by its ability to reduce welding smoke by 90-95%.

Since its launch in January last year, the 7XE Extractor has taken off and this has made us think about all the different situations in which welders could use this torch. Therefore, we developed 4 new nozzles and an additional highly flexible hose. They will be exhibited for the first time in Hannover this month. The new nozzles allow the 7XE Extractor to be used in various situations, such as welding aluminium or welding at difficult angles, without compromising the quality of the weld.

Visit Translas at Stand A03, Hall 12.

Jelmer Wolleswinkel and his team will be there to answer your questions and to demonstrate the incredible results achieved with the 7XE Extractor with a live welding demo.

About EuroBLECH: From 25 – 29 October 2016, the 24th International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition will open its doors again in Hannover, Germany. Amongst sheet metal working specialists, the show is renowned as the key market place to find the latest equipment and services in all areas of sheet metal working.

The exhibition presents the entire sheet metal working technology chain: sheet metal, semi-finished and finished products, handling, separation, forming, flexible sheet metal working, joining, additive manufacturing, welding and surface treatment, processing of hybrid structures, tools, quality control, CAD/CAM/CIM systems and R&D. At EuroBLECH, some 1,600 exhibitors from 40 countries present their cutting-edge technology live to a worldwide audience of some 60,000 trade visitors.

On 26th September at 19.10 the time had come. Jeroen Boer had to present in a one-minute pitch the innovation behind the 7XE Extractor. This was followed by a 10-minute barrage of questions from the jury.

In front of 20 jury members, the Pitcher from Translas had to answer various questions regarding the technical feasibility and commercial expectations for the 7XE Extractor. This was a challenging but enjoyable experience.

At 22.30 the same evening, we were happy to hear the good news – that we are chosen for the finals out of 800 innovations in the category ‘Smart Industry’. On 28th October, we will be competing with four other innovations for the wanted trophy!

The finals will take place at a special arena at DeFabrique in Utrecht, the Netherlands, where we will pitch once again the innovation behind the 7XE Extractor in front of a large supporting audience. You are welcome to support us as well during this event:

Accenture Innovation Summit

Address: DeFabrique Westkanaaldijk 7, 3542 DA Utrecht
Date: 28th October 2016

In case you cannot attend, you still have the chance to support us for the Audience Award by giving your vote(s) on the website:

Vote for the 7XE Extractor

Every person is allowed to give a maximum of 3 votes – via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Please, spread the word by asking your colleagues, family and friends to give their votes as well. Help us win the prize and to create a real impact on society!

With gratitude,

the Translas Team

At the Semi finals of the AIA16

The popular double cooled torches, 7XM 460DK and 560DK, have a completely new design. This makes them the torches with the best cooling for high amperage welding.

The DK series are small torches with a very high cooling capacity. The temperature stays at all times below 90°C. To make this possible, a careful assembly process is required. The unique about the cooling system of the DK is that the cooling reaches both the swan neck and the contact tip. The gas nozzle in the 560DK model is also cooled. Both models can be used for up to 500 Amp with mixed gases and C02.

Heat tests have shown that the temperature on the M8 contact tip of the new 7XM-560 torches is lower than 90°C. Comparable MIG welding torches have a temperature of at least 250°C or higher.

The popular 7XE Extractor – torch with integrated fume extraction – has expanded its range of application due to the development of 4 new nozzles.

7XE Extractor took off after its launch last year in October and many saw the future of welding in the on-torch fume extraction. The high interest in the welding torch made us think about all the different situations welders would use this torch in. Therefore, we developed 4 new nozzles.

The 4 new nozzles types include a 10 mm , 12 mm, 14 mm and 14 mm Specials. As a standard, the Extractor is going to be offered with the 12 mm nozzle, which is much less dependent on the gas flow and ensures no porosity when welding in corners. The 14 mm is your best bet when it comes to welding aluminium. And the 14 mm Specials is excellent for welding at extreme angles, for example of 25 – 30 degrees. Such application can be often found in the welding of ships where welders need to be able to weld at all angles and in every position. The quality of welds in ship building is essential and the 14mm Specials nozzle is made exactly for such critical situations.

The 7XE Extractor is going to be soon delivered as a standard with 12 mm nozzle. The rest can be purchased separately to cover most range of welding situations. For more information, please, contact our sales team at info@translas.com or give us a call: +31(0) 30 – 604 73 73.

Translas is pleased to offer the possibility for manufacturing of custom moulds. We do this via our daughter company, TA Pacific, based in Dongguan , China, in the province of Guangdong. TA Pacific’s strength is in injection moulding tools, from designing to the injection moulding. Having the 3-D designing in-house, it is easy to design the product, make mould drawings and manage the manufacturing of the moulds. As options, 1K as well as 2K are both possible.

Another advantage of TA Pacific is their work with PCB’s and all kinds of cable assemblies for the electrical side. TA Pacific is your hands in China, with all necessary quality control in place.

Interested in knowing more? Please, do not hesitate to make an appointment with us:

info@translas.com / +31(0) 30 – 604 73 73.

After intensive training period of our team, we passed the certification process according to ISO 9001:2008. In the beginning of this month, Translas officially received the belonging certificate which can be downloaded from the Dealer panel on our website.

The standard proves that Translas meets the requirements of this excellent quality management system. We strive for continuous improvement for successful relationship with our partners. We do this through development, manufacturing and trade of components and products for the welding industry as well as technical components based on customer specification.

We invite you with your demands and requests, which we will transfer into standard solutions or specialties.

Click to see certificate.

Translas is a company with 55 years of experience in the welding industry. Throughout this time, we have succeeded to stay on top of the industry by thinking in the future and spotting what are the true needs of the welders. Some of our developments we have created through successful partnerships based on trust.

Translas is presenting you a company movie that reflects the long path taken and the vision of Translas about the future. Translas aims to improve the world by creating sustainable products from the beginning till the end – from the manufacturing process and distribution to healthy welding environment for welders all around the world. In order to develop more sustainable and welder-friendly products, we are constantly improving ourselves in terms of quality, efficiency, creativity as well as trust.

Translas’ products are made by welders, for welders.

Inhalation and exposure to welding fumes may cause irritation to eyes and skin, nausea, headache, dizziness and chronic injury to airways, lungs and nervous system. Such symptoms can sometimes reveal themselves after weeks, months or years. Therefore, wearing a welding helmet with a fresh air system during welding is a must for every welder!

Work safe and healthy with the AirFORCE Fresh Air set

As an addition of the FORCE program personal protection products, Translas now introduces the AirFORCE Fresh Air Set. With this Fresh Air set welders can protect themselves against harmful welding rays and welding fumes. The AirFORCE Fresh Air Set consists a FORCE-800 welding helmet and an AirFORCE Fresh Air unit. The FORCE-800 welding helmet is a high standard and comfortable welding helmet available with an auto-darkening welding filter 820S or 830S.

AirFORCE Fresh Air system

The AirFORCE Fresh Air unit is a light and compact filter system in a solid casing, connected to the FORCE-800 welding helmet. The fan in the fresh air system is driven by a carbon brush free motor. This motor is not only quiet but also has a three times longer lifetime than a conventional motor.

The Long-lasting Battery

A rechargeable battery provides the power to the fan motor. Depending on the contamination of the filter, the battery lasts 9 hours. An acoustic sound provides a warning signal when the voltage of the battery is too low. A separate charging station will be supplied with the AirFORCE Fresh Air unit.

The Filters

When the main filter is polluted, it must be replaced. The unit gives an alarm through a vibration signal and a bleeping sound, accompanied with flash of all three warning lights. The degree of saturation of the main filter will not affect the airflow. The main filter is protected on the outside by a spark trap and a pre-filter. Only the pre-filter can be cleaned with compressed air.

High Wearing Comfort

The lightweight fresh air unit is worn with a belt around the waist so that the unit and the air hose do not cause any obstruction during welding. The inside of the belt is designed with a soft shock absorbent material. The extra wide belt ensures that the carried weight of the unit is distributed over the full width and is not applying pressure to the lower back region during use.

Click on the video below to see the official trailer of the EXTRACTOR.

Feel free to share this movie. For more technical information on the EXTRACTOR, click here.

The Extractor, an innovative welding torch that takes away 90 to 95% of harmful welding fumes directly at the source, has been awarded the EARTO Innovation Award 2015. This international award of the European Association of Research and Technology Organisations was presented to the developers of the Extractor by Carlos Moedas, European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation in Brussels on 14 October 2015. The Award was accepted by Bas Knoll of TNO in the absence of the two TNO researchers Ellemieke Henquet and André Moons, who were responsible for the research and development of the conical extraction system of the Extractor welding torch.

The Award

The Award was presented by the European Association of Research and Technology (EARTO), which was established in 1999 and represents the interests of more than 350 European research and technology organisations (RTOs) in European political circles and European R&D research programmes. The Awards have been presented since 2009 to RTOs that have contributed significantly to innovation.

Of the 26 entries, 6 innovations made the final, divided over two categories: ‘Impact Delivered’ and ‘Impact Expected’. Innovations in the first category have already demonstrated their social and economic worth and been placed on the market. The Extractor was placed in this category in the final, up against the formidable opposition of the German Fraunhofer-Institut and Sweden’s SP Technical Research Institute, but in the end the Extractor prevailed.

The Extractor welding torch: breakthrough for a healthier working environment

The Extractor takes away the welding fumes directly at the source and reduces them by 90 to 95% without any concessions to the weld quality. This means that welders and others working in the same area are no longer exposed to harmful welding fumes. Once its use has become widespread the health of some 730,000 welders in Europe will be improved. Reducing the health hazard caused by exposure to welding fumes has been an important topic for many years. The fact that a solution is now available therefore represents a true breakthrough. The Extractor also saves substantial costs through:

• Lower health costs
• Less absenteeism and downtime
• Reducing production losses caused by protective measures
• Lower investment in welding and extraction equipment
• Lower ventilation and energy costs.

Developed in close partnership

Translas developed the EXTRACTOR welding torch in partnership with the independent Dutch research institute TNO and the innovation platform iTanks. Translas is responsible for the entire production and sales operation.

The new TIG welding torch is the first TIG welding torch which, thanks to a modular design, can connect to any kind of cable end, adapter, and switch module. The new TIG welding torches are not only easy to customise, but enable any type of welding instrument to be put together. As a result, end users no longer need to buy a complete new welding torch for each instrument they require and dealers can reduce their inventory level.

Screwless interchangeable modules

The new TIG welding torch has the 7 series family look and is the third generation in the line of torches that Translas introduced in 2005. Existing TIG torch lines already had a fully closed switch system and could be delivered with a single as well as a multiple pressure switch module. This is no longer unique, but the new generation can now be put together with 7 different switch modules, which can exchange easily without screwing parts together. And that’s unique!

Further ergonomic improvements

Translas has improved the design of the new TIG torch handle for a better hand grip. We also researched the optimal distance between the switch and the welding tip. We have now implemented this across the entire line, enabling the manual welder to exercise better control of torch movements. Also new is the lower cover with gripstuds which is optimal grip guaranteed.

BY WELDERS, FOR WELDERS.

Welding helmets provide good protection against harmful UV rays, but they should also be easy to use and comfortable to wear. The FORCE-800 is a light, top-range, high-quality welding helmet belonging to the top segment of the market.

As a standard this helmet is supplied in our own FORCE design. It is also possible, for orders of 300 units or more, to supply this helmet with your own label or brand. For larger quantities, other helmet shells and/or cassettes are also available on request.

With a choice of two automatic cassettes, type 820 or 830, the FORCE-800 welding helmet provides the eyes with maximum protection against harmful UV rays. The FORCE-820 cassette has a field of vision of

95×85 mm (classification 1/2/1/1). The FORCE-830 cassette comes with a digital display and a field of vision of 65×62 mm (classification 1/1/1/1). Both automatic cassettes are of course fully CE certified in accordance with the prevailing directives.

This new FORCE-800 is a top-range welding helmet against a reasonable price. For more information, prices and conditions, please get in touch with our sales department: info@translas.com / (+31)30 – 604 73 73.

Translas is proud of its nomination for the Accenture Innovation Award 2014. Our 7XM Extractor is in the running for this prestigious prize in innovation. The great thing about this award is that you can help us win by casting your vote at https://innovation-awards.nl/concept/ivent/ [closed].

The 7XM Extractor welding torch was developed by Translas, TNO Research Institute and Stichting iTanks Rotterdam (NL). This particular welding torch is innovative in a number of ways. Tests carried out by TNO have shown that the Extractor is the first smoke-extraction torch to go under the Maximum Allowable Concentration (MAC) value of 1 mg/m³. This means the welding torch contributes significantly to the healthy and safe working conditions of welders. In the Netherlands alone this amounts to 75,000 people.

The 7XM Extractor also excels in other areas in terms of innovation:

• Integrated at-source weld fume extraction (55 m³/hour)
• Conical suction hose tapering from Ø 38 mm to Ø 50 mm
• Central extraction system with continuous flow regulation and filtering system
• (Optional) mobile filter system with multi cyclones

Vote now!

In short: the 7XM Extractor deserves the Accenture Innovation Award 2014. You can vote now on https://innovation-awards.nl/concept/ivent/ [closed]. Tip: you can cast your vote more than once via Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and e-mail.

About the Innovation Awards

Accenture initially established the Innovation Awards with the objective of duly rewarding those companies that provide exceptional, innovative performance. In addition, the event offers comprehensive insight into the state of innovation in the Netherlands. For the jury awards – the Blue Tulip and the Green Tulip – the nominees are assessed on innovation, success and potential by a panel of expert judges.

The Green Tulip is an overarching industry prize for the most sustainable concept originating from the Netherlands. Accenture, together with the Club of Rome, created the Green Tulip to emphasise the importance of sustainable innovation.

All in keeping with our motto: By Welders, For Welders.

From the end of July we will be providing our retailers with new packaging. The new sealed bags look very attractive compared to the previous ones. They also have numerous benefits, such as high-quality strong plastic, ribbed header, tear-open cut to open the bag easily and big label space.

Make An Impression

The new bags not only have a more professional look but are also designed for private labelling. The manufacturer logo can easily be removed and there is enough space to place your private label (70x40mm). This makes it very easy to customize.

The ribbed header and the high-quality plastic used allow you to hang the bags without them loosing their form. This feature drastically improves the visual presentation of the store. The hanger and display look neat and representative to the customer.

The reason why we decided to change our packaging is to help our retailers with attracting more end consumers of welding products. The full range of products we offer will be received in the new packaging from the the end of July 2014.

Get more information or place your order: info@translas.com

Saturday 21st June took place the ven2cops bicycle ride. The aim of the bike ride was to collect money for the fight against cancer. At the end of the event 9000 euro were collected by the participants and sponsors. Translas BV also participated with a contribution.

The bicycle ride was organized for 3rd time and every time it has a bigger success. This time the 100 enthusiastic participants had to cycle a distance of 100km.

Every year Translas BV sponsors charity events of different kinds. We believe that companies and organisations should contribute more often to support good causes.

As a producer who always strives to listen to the needs of the welder, we continuously improve our products. Feedback from users of our torches always makes us happy and we do everything possible to eliminate their complains or small inconveniences. Recently, our team in Nieuwegein, the Netherlands has finished the improvements on the rocker switch, namely:

High-sensitivity Switch

The rocker has been improved in two ways. The first one is the sensitivity of the switch. Now the welder can easily press the switch to the front and back. In this way they can control the stream to perfection.

Even More Stable

The second big change is on the stability of the buttons. You can make sure that the buttons will not bend to the left or right. During the tests, we achieved 0 bend on the right or the left. In the same time, the rocker kept its original advantages. It is made of silicone-rubber inlay which is one piece. This inlay keeps water and dirt away from the inside of the torch.

The 7ST tig torches are available with the new rocker switch and you can order at: info@translas.com

By Welders, For Welders

Nieuwegein, July 2015 – Translas was invited to present the 7XE Extractor at the annual safety meeting of the representatives of major maritime construction companies in Northern Germany. The Extractor welding torch with built-in fume extraction reduces more than 90% of weld fumes right at the source, is co-developed with independent research organisation TNO and introduced on the market in spring this year.

Shipyards are places for construction and repair of maritime vessels. Working at a ship for the welder means often working at closed off spaces without constant access to fresh air, which leads to high health risks of the employees. After an hour-long presentation and demo at the shipyard meeting at Bremerhaven, safety managers and other reps of offshore companies found The Extractor an excellent solution to the problem.

Since the early 1930s, representatives of maritime construction have been meeting regularly to exchange experiences in the fields of occupational health and safety in Northern Germany. The basic idea – to improve health and safety in the accident-prone shipbuilding industry by holding an industry-oriented forum – was implemented quite successfully and stayed throughout the years.

The representatives are safety experts, company doctors, production managers of shipyards, companies in the offshore sector, their partners and representatives of authorities, expert organizations and insurance institutions of current occupational health and safety issues.

The Extractor can be a solution to reduce the health risks of your employees too! Ask our sales team for more information or a demo: info@translas.com / +31 (0) 30 604 73 73.

After an air quality control measurement, it was concluded that the harmful fumes and gasses from welding at HAGS UK plant were higher than the tolerable level. Paul Cusson, Manufacturing Team Leader, explored 15 other solutions before he arrived at the 7XE Extractor and ClearO2 W200 Pro hi-vac solution from Translas. The solution helped to clean the air at the HAGS UK factory with a 75% improvement.

• Value fume allowance UK – up to 5 mg/m³ over the span of an 8-hour working day
• Value HAGS pre-Translas-solution –up to 7.65
• Value post-Translas-solution – down to 2.03
• 15 welders fabricating plant

About HAGS UK

HAGS is a leading provider of outdoor fitness and playground equipment shipped all around the world. They have three European plants, located in the United Kingdom, Sweden and Poland. HAGS’ mission is “to produce highest quality most durable play equipment in the world”. They pride themselves in quality, cost and, greatly, in durability of the product.

The Problem

After being tested by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), the WEL-levels (Workplace Exposure Limits set on the amount of a substance that can be present in workplace air[1]) at the fabrication shop of HAGS were above the allowed measure of up to 5 mg/m³ over the span of an 8-hour working day. Several solutions were tested and evaluated.

Solutions Tested

• Roof ventilation – roof ventilation fans were already set in place. These were classified as “too old” and “inadequate” by the HSE.
• Welding arms – The effect of the welding arm is dependent mainly on the welder. The welder needs to always have in mind they need to move the arm together with them during welding. After testing, this resulted as an insufficient solution. Welders did not always stop during welding to adjust the welding arm. In other scenarios, they needed to weld in positions where welding arm did not fit or reach.
• Mobile fume extraction – Another possible solution was mobile fume extraction with a self-supporting fume arm.These units appeared to produce heavy noise pollutant and units were always left in the corner of the workshop gathering dust on the outside.
• General Air-cleaning – Based on the high-cost and the needs of the plant, air-cleaning was marked as unsuitable. “General Air cleaning just does not work” – Paul Cusson, HAGS UK Manufacturing Team Leader.
• On-torch extraction with a portable hi-vac unit – After having contacted 10 to 15 different companies and having examined or tested all the solutions, Paul and the operations manager Chris Hunter, encountered the 7XE Extractor & ClearO2 W200Pro hi-vac solution, offered by Translas. The solution consists of a welding torch with on-torch fume extraction with low weight of the torch – 1.1kg – and a mobile filtration unit developed especially for the 7XE Extractor torch.

“Welders could not believe how light the torch was.” – Paul Cusson, HAGS Selby

The Chosen Solution

The welders at HAGS Selby work between 8 to 10 hours daily. With the fabrication of outdoor fitness and playground equipment, they are forced to weld in tight spaces and to constantly switch positions to weld various pipes. With a light torch that barely has an impact on the wrist and arm, the welders feel comfortable to take any position to continue working during an eight to ten hour working day.

Each ClearO2 W200Pro unit is designed to connect 2x 7XE Extractors. HAGS has employed 5 of the units and 10 of the integrated fume extraction torches for their plant of 15 fabricators. The whole solution took no more than two days of setting up, including training of the staff.

The Results

The post-test results proved positive. The WEL-levels improved 4 times since the hi-vac solution from Translas extracts 90 to 95% of the harmful welding fumes at the source. The air pollution in the whole fabricating plant went down to values of 2.03. “This was a massive improvement in the test results.” Furthermore, Paul Cusson appreciates the time and cost savings with regards to the maintenance. The W200Pro is equipped with an easy-to-clean dust collecting box which is emptied once a week and the filter is cleaned automatically. The benefit from the perspective of the welders themselves is the possibility to clearly see the weld pool and weld arc.

“The hi-vac filtration solution from Translas is simple, easy, light and one the welder is happy with.” – Paul Cusson

Benefits for HAGS UK

• Low initial investment
• Easy installment
• Improvement of air quality much below the maximum allowed level in the UK
• Low maintenance
• Ease of use
• Clear view to the weld
• Comfortable lightweight torch
• Production based equipment

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK has recently changed its standards for healthier workplace air. To comply to those standards, Lars Communications – leading installers of radio, microwave & telecommunications networks in Europe – decided to be proactive and employed the hi-vac solution from Translas to clean the air at their plant. The solution consists of the 7XE Extractor welding torch specially designed for welding fume collection at source and a central hi vacuum system which is also used for general cleaning of the workplace once the fabrications have been completed.

About Lars Communications Ltd.

Lars Communications is a Lancashire based company, occupied with the construction of telecommunication towers. They are in the business for almost 30 years and all their work conforms to BS EN ISO 9001 quality standards. The company has 240 m2 workshop.

The Problem

The workshop of Lars resides in a building, which was originally built without any air cleaning installation. Due to the growth of the company in the past few years, more people have been employed in the facility. Employees started complaining about the dust laying around and that it was impossible to clean. Sweeping had to be done again and again constantly. The machines in the plant had to also be proactively cleaned on a regular basis to not cause failure due to dust and metal particles. That was keeping the people at Lars excessively occupied with cleaning activities.

That coupled with the new WEL-level standards (Workplace Exposure Limits set on the amount of a substance that can be present in workplace air[1]) imposed by the HSE for up to 5 mg/m³ of air of harmful fumes and gases over the span of an 8-hour working day, had raised the need of an effective air cleaning solution for the plant.

The Solution

Before choosing the 7XE Extractor & Clear02 200 Pro hi-vac solution, Mark Lightfoot, Workshop Manager, and Julian Cooper, Business Development Manager, at Lars, explored the two most suitable for them options – on-torch fume extraction versus self-supporting welding fume extraction arms.

The use of welding fume extraction arms proved to be ineffective for the fabricators at the plant because the harmful smoke was still passing through the face of welder. At the same time, Mark Lightfoot and Julian Cooper were impressed by the extraction power of the 7XE Extractor with the high-vacuum central Clear02 Pro filtration unit. The fumes were going directly into the torch, without even coming close to the face of the welder.

“The amount of fumes the torch took away was impressive” – Mark Lightfoot, Workshop Manager at Lars Communications

The quick installation of the high-vac solution saved a lot of time to Lars. “We have a massive workshop of 240 m2 but the installation was quite quick”.

The Result

Right after the implementation of the 7XE Extractor & Clear02 Pro unit, significant changes have happened. It is now easier to clean the large workshop and fumes cannot be seen since all dust is filtered and cleaned air is returned into the workplace via clean air monitoring device installed on the exhaust of the system. Only 4 weeks after the installation, the rise in the productivity has been noticed since welders are not constantly busy with sweeping the workshop. Welders report that they breath in significantly fewer welding fumes.

“It used to be quite foggy when you walked into the workshop before and now it is quite clear. You see no fumes there.” – Mark Lightfoot

Benefits for Lars Communications:

• Time savings from cleaning up the workshop
• Welding pool is much more visible
• Welding masks are significantly cleaner & last much longer
• Welders don’t breathe in almost any fumes compared to before
• Good USP for job advertisement
• Clear air in the whole workshop
• Great post-service
• Consumables last between 5 & 10 longer due to the cooling of the 7XE welding torch

https://www.hse.gov.uk/aboutus/occupational-disease/cancer/welding.htm

On-torch fume extraction is the best solution for capturing welding fumes

Thanks to the recent developments in the welding torch technology, welding fumes can now be eliminated to almost 100%. This is possible with special nozzle which extracts the fumes at the source and with a connection to a high-vacuum extraction unit. What does that mean for the welder? Welders can now weld safely, without a risk for various pulmonary and other diseases.

The on-torch fume extraction is suitable for various applications. A fume extraction torch can be used on its own at any location. For larger welding areas, such as workshops, it can be connected to a ducted extraction system. The advantage of the on-torch fume extraction, when compared to traditional systems, is that the operator is easily mobile, not needing to consider the extraction hood.

Many researches and tests have shown that the extraction at source is the most efficient way for minimizing the risk of welding-fume related diseases. The welder can safely work over large areas as well as closed off or confined spaces.

The efficiency of the fume extraction can range from 70-98%. With the 7XE Extractor the value is always above 90%.

On-torch needs ‘high vacuum’

Extraction at source needs high speed extraction and low air volumes to efficiently remove the fumes. This means that it needs to be connected to a high-vac unit, such as the ClearO2 W200.

MIG fume extraction torches are now available in air- and water-cooled versions, as well as with a highly flexible hose which makes them even more manoeuvrable than a regular MIG torch.

Translas offers a complete high-vac filtration solution, including the 7XE Extractor welding torch and the W200 high-vac unit. This high-end solution includes advanced design features that enable maximum fume suction, while easing the work of the operator who does not need to adjust the flow-rate of the shielding gas and can effortlessly transport the system to the location needed.

If you have a company, it means you have processes to optimize, even if your company consists only of you. The only difference is that the more people you have, the more complicated the work flow becomes and there is always a part of the process that can be done better. Good companies want to do what they do excellently, not just well. Excellency is what Translas is going for and, in order to achieve it, you first have another major task – to connect your team with the idea of change. This is not an easy task. Marcel Hamoen, who is responsible for the implementation of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) at Translas, has outlined the steps of the process below.

What Are The Customer Benefits?

As a company that always looks for improvements, we have noticed a few significant benefits.

Customer benefits – by using the new ERP add-ons, we are expecting to achieve shorter delivery times by the end of the year. The other benefit for the customer is that ERP is one of the main reasons Translas can maintain its price range while still delivering high-quality torches.

Internally, we are happy to notice a shift in attitude. People within all of our departments are now more open to change. This will make it much easier to implement future improvements and to achieve additional customer benefits. “First we started with ‘Lean’ but now we realize that the more you think of improvements, the more you see improvements.” This change in attitude is what keeps us on top.

How To Make Your Team Use Erp?

First of all, there are initial steps to be taken. Before anything else, you need to convince yourself how badly the change is needed. If you’re not convinced, you have no chance of convincing others. This is how it works at Translas:

1) Make a clear flow line – the first step is about analysing. You need to make a clear and detailed line of a process flow within your company. Only after you have this down in black and white can you say whether there are any steps that are unnecessary or repetitive. Very often two departments repeat the same step. It is a shame to be wasting your time in such a way. This step will define what kind of ERP solution your company needs.

2) Don’t just jump into a solution – after understanding which ERP solution you need, don’t just jump in and start implementing it. It is very important that the solution you find fits the workflow within your company. ERP can provide add-ons that are a good fit for one company but may not be the right fit for your company. This can have a tremendous effect on your Return on Investment (ROI). Technology is an expensive investment that can also earn you a lot, but only if used intelligently. Don’t blindly trust any one, particular ERP adviser.

3) Be honest about it – after the analysis is completed is the best moment to discuss your findings with the team. Don’t stress them out. Explain to them what the potential benefits would be and make it clear that there will be testing before any final decision is taken. Otherwise, you might find resistance from the other side straight from the beginning.

4) Create a demo environment – a demo environment consists of copying your database into the particular ERP solution you want to try. Most of the time this solution is an add-on to your software. Then, start testing it with the people who will be using it the most.

5) Implement (after a successful demo) – the last step is, of course, to implement the add-on. In this step, you need to provide further training for those who took part in the demo. After they have the hang of it, it will be much easier to transfer the knowledge to the rest of the department.

“The Most Critical Moment Is When You Hear, ‘But Is It Necessary?’” – Tips And Tricks For Employee Engagement

It is human nature to avoid change. Therefore, it is very unlikely that you’ll NOT hear questions, such as: “But is it really necessary?” For the same reason, there is no best time to introduce a change in the workflow. You just have to know how to get people’s commitment.

Know Your Numbers

As mentioned before, there are two important questions to answer before you share anything with the team: The first question is – “Is it really necessary to have this?” The second question is – “What does the business case show? Do I get the ROI I am looking for?” After you have this information and you have convinced yourself, you can back up your words.
Involve The Influencers.

Start with the demo in order to interact with those who will be using it eventually. Always pick people that are respected and have formal or informal influence on the rest of their department. If they’re convinced, then it will be much easier to implement the solution down the line; the need for this increases when you have conservative eyes observing you.

Ask For Feedback, And Especially Negative Feedback.

Why is negative feedback so important? Everyone gets used to the things they like much quicker than to the things they do not like. If you can eliminate or modify the process so that it best suits your team, you will see less resistance from them.

Take Your Time.

“If it takes a long time, that doesn’t matter. I have to see in their eyes that they’re ready for it. Because you can have the greatest software, but it’s the people who make it work.”- Marcel Hamoen.

What is the difference between Industrial marketing and marketing? Industrial marketing is part of the overall marketing. Industrial marketing marks the relation between businesses (and that is why it falls into B2B marketing) rather than between businesses and end consumers. The basics between B2B and B2C marketing are the same, but there are some differences in the strategies of both. Communicating to a business is different than communicating to a consumer. Normally, when communicating with a company, many people are involved in the process and decision-making is slower.

The term ‘Industrial marketing’ has started being actively used from communication professionals in the past 2 to 3 years. One can even say that industrials are still opening to the online way of communication. Most of the companies now have websites, but they rarely succeed in using it in a way that it will generate high amount of leads. How do prospects/clients find you? Does your website introduce you in a proper way? Many B2B businesses are still trying to answer these questions. This is why, in this article, we have provided some strategic tips that you might find quite handy.

When It Comes To Online: Which Channels To Use?

Internet marketing is an ocean of things by itself. There are many channels available to reach the desired audience. Here comes also the main difference between B2C and B2B – in the channels used and the way these channels are used.
Online marketing channels and tools suitable for B2B communication are:
Email
E-newsletter
Website
Blog
Social networks
Videos
E-books
Webinars

4 Strategic Tips To Succeed In The Online World

Create a website, which is a content hub
Your website should be nothing like “Come here. This is my product. Are you buying?”. In our times where nothing on the market is new anymore, it is hard to surprise a customer or a prospect with an amazing product. Let alone if we are talking about B2B where – as we mentioned before – there are many opinions coming into play before the close of the deal.
What you should have on your website is useful for your customer information. (By the way, this is also something for the B2C businesses). The content that you have on your website should be answering questions, such as “Why do we sell/make these certain products?”, “What do we believe in?”, “How do we make them?” etc. In this way, it is easier to create a unique selling point (USP).
So, make your content useful and creative via articles, e-books, corporate videos, team presentations, whitepapers, etc.

Make your customers identify themselves
In order to be able to perfectly target your content, it will be great to have some more information about your customers. How do you do that? By including a section with content which is accessible only after registration. (This is again a tip for B2C too) Usually with the B2B businesses, these will be their partners, retailers and other parties.
You can also hear the term ‘gated content’, which is basically content accessible only after providing more information about yourself. In this case, this information can include number of employees, position in the company, annual turnover, etc. This is a very smart strategy employed by many websites. Such a strategy will help you pinpoint your customer and easily create your buyer persona. And ones you can envision the person across, is it not going to be easier to offer the content they need?
In our case of industrial, or simply B2B, communication, the (gated) content provided should include things like video explanations of how the product works, manuals, visuals, any kind of material a retailer might need to promote your product, 3D visualisations, latest product and company updates, etc. Pay a lot of attention to the visuals and video content. These can make a very big difference in your professional look.

Generate leads from social media
As mentioned above, your website is your content HUB. This means more or less every channels should be leading to your website. And this is how you create leads.
Therefore, social media should be used for lead generation. Yes, but which of the many social networks available out there should you use? Well, with B2B this is much simple than with B2C. When it comes to industrials – even more! Industrials are not that open yet to social networks (according to the research made by Translas throughout businesses around the world). They mostly like to use LinkedIn and YouTube! These are the top two. They really like to see videos and almost all managers, sales representatives, directors, CEOs, etc. are findable on LinkedIn. Therefore, as a manager or sales representative, you should definitely extend your LinkedIn network and join various groups over there.
Another useful channel is Twitter. This channel is mainly used by those who are either very keen on social media (and are small companies) or those who can allow to hire staff or an agency to do their online/social media marketing.
What about Facebook? Yes, Facebook you can also use. However, in the B2B world Facebook is good for putting your name out there and getting closer to the end consumer and see what they like. This can also be useful in maybe developing your next product or just to see the reactions of the end user on your existing or newest products. But, then act like you are a person and not a business.

Use actively email marketing
This seems quite obvious, does not it? But do you do it the right way? Your email marketing can also generate leads to your website. The tailored content you have already created and placed on your website can be disseminated also through an e-newsletter sent out to your existing database. Show off with what you’ve got! There is always something you can write about. The only trick here is to make it both look and sound interesting.
To make it simple, this is how your strategy should look like:

This is, of course, oversimplification of the online marketing. As we said before, there are many things to consider, also referral traffic is very important (where leads come from other websites). Anyhow, it is a good base to understand the big picture.

Resources:

http://www.toptensocialmedia.com
http://www.marketing-schools.org
http://jordanleahy.wordpress.com/
http://core-el.com/

“Online marketing in the B2B Industrial business” by Lora Zayn, Bachelor research for the Utrecht University of Applied Sciences, the Netherlands, 2013

In order to be known for what you want to be known, you must constantly prove your strength in the chosen field. Especially if this is product development and improvement. Then, you must pay close attention to what you do if you want to stay ahead of competition. The market dynamics are very high in the industry of metalworking. Therefore, Jeroen Boer sheds light on the best practices in product development that work for Translas.

How does the idea for a product arise?

An idea gets created mainly by talking to OEMs. It is very important to know what their needs are. Together we sit down to brainstorm and talk about the latest developments in their machine technology. OEMs are using newly and more advanced machinery all the time. This is why we have to check with them what is it that they exactly need and expect from us. Of course, experience is very important as well. Translas has over 50 years of experience in the welding marker. This helps the company tremendously in knowing the market, where is it going, what is missing from it, etc.

The 9 steps in product development

The cycle of starting from scratch to launching a product takes minimum two years, but most of the time, it takes two to three years. For instance, Translas wants to exhibit a new 7XM MIG line at the exhibition in Essen in 2017. For this process to be completed, the development of the new MIG line will start this summer 2015. Although new, the torches must still be in line with the rest of the product range. This might sound as an easy task, but it is certainly not.

There are basically nine steps, you need to go through:

• Brainstorm
• 3D Design
• Prototyping
• Testing
• Repeating steps 2), 3) and 4) until needed
• Creating definite molding tools
• Marketing
• Launch
• Sales

This process is, in fact, similar to the formally developed Stage-Gate process by Doctor Robert G. Cooper.

Who is involved in the process

Many people are involved in a product development process. Assigning a cross-team on a project is what makes the interaction between the departments much more open and flowing. People tend to be more motivated and show more creativity when they are involved in the overall process rather than simply do their part of the job, related to their own department. A cross-team normally consists of partners, R&D, management and technical department. Partners for Translas are OEMs but also independent knowledge organization, such as iTanks andTNO in the Netherlands. They help us with upgrading our technology according to the latest technological and machine developments.

In the whole process, R&D is definitely the most important player in the game. We cannot skip the fact, though, that it is the management who lays down the basis of a project and leads it to the end.

However, just as mentioned in the Stage-Gate process, the close synchronization of the team is what ensures a successful launch of a product.

Where does it happen

Geographically, the product development process happens mainly in-house. Development and production are entirely accommodate in Nieuwegein, in the Netherlands, where is Translas’ office located. Of course, when partnering with others, such as iTanks and TNO, part of the process – such as testing and prototyping, happens at their site – also in the Netherlands. However, most product development projects happen on an international level. In the case of Translas, TA Pacific is also involved to some extent in the 3D Design step.

Critical points in the process

There are two main aspects that are very critical for the success of a new product. First of all, the technical aspects have to combine well with the design. “They have to fit in it”. The second thing is that it has to be usable for the welder. You can have an amazing product but if it does not fit the need of the user, it is worth nothing.

“We have been through that already. It [a product] can be as high tech as an iPhone but if you cannot weld with a glove with it, what do you need it for. ” – Jeroen Boer.

Obstacles

What is also something Translas has in mind when developing a new product is how to make it universal, suitable for most of the customers and, ideally, for all customers. A product is not going to be successful if you only have one person that can make use of it. That is tackled during the steps of brainstorming and testing.

Recent developments

Our most recent and significant project is the Extractor, which was very recently launched. It took three years from beginning of the project to launch. Collaborating with partners, such as iTanks and TNO, was of a great advantage. Translas shared the long years of experience in welding and knowledge of the market and TNO – with their modern tech knowledge – helped to upgrade the technology we already had.

A critical moment in this project was creating a handle that is the same size as the handle of a normal MIG torch, but with 65 m³/hr flow. “This is what I mean by fitting the technical aspects into the design. This was the most difficult part in the process.”

From the beginning, it was important that the development is as effective as to deserve the patent. The fumes had to be caught right at the source, so they are not allowed to get even close to the face of the welder. Achieving the value of 90% – 95% less fumes, thus, making the fume extraction highly effective, is a huge technological development. Therefore, the Extractor is now deservedly getting its patent.

As mentioned above, the knowledge sharing is vital for technological developments to be given birth. Translas is open to participating in the development of other welding-related products. Therefore, if you have an idea that is worth sharing, please, approach us freely.

We have been capitalizing on being a ‘lean’ company for more or less three years now. This has turned into quite a winning strategy. However, becoming ‘lean’ and efficient is never a one-time project. It is an ongoing thing, as the technical director Edwin Boer pointed out in the previous article “What are the benefits you get from Lean? 3 practical tips how to apply it.”. Our new team member Roel Noordhoek firmly confirmed this statement. Roel is now part of Translas and his specialty is quality management and cost control. Read more about what he has to say about Quality Management inside your company.

Roel Noordhoek – Head of Quality Management in Translas – has been in project management, sales and cost management in the plastics, injection moulding and machinery for more than 25 years. At the moment, Roel is working on raising the quality level for ISO 9001 certification in 2015.

Quality Control And Quality Management

“Quality control and Quality management are two totally different things” – says Roel Noordhoek. “Quality control is checking the result of a product or process.” Quality management is much broader. It includes implementation of the right processes within the company, customers and suppliers. It starts from simple communication processes on one level to intra-departmental communication and setting clear guidelines for the working process. “One may say it is policy making.” Put in simple words, it tries to eliminate any mistake in order to optimize the workflow and reach higher customer satisfaction.

Practical example:

It might happen that parts produced according to the agreements still get complaints. How can that be possible? Searching for the root cause, it can be found that the agreement is written in such a way that it could be dubious. After supplying the customer with the right products, the documentation needs to be updated. Instructions need to be set down more clearly in order to prevent recurrence of similar problems. Moreover, such clearance in documentation normally results in higher productivity.

The job of a quality manager requires setting down clear guidelines which will help decreasing the lead times and satisfying customer expectations.

ISO 9001

ISO 9001 is a management tool focussing on customer satisfaction in which attention is paid to the quality assurance and continual improvement of processes of the organization. The benefits for a company that is ISO 9001 certified are numerous. Mainly they revolve around optimized customer relationship, lower failure costs and higher process efficiency; combined or individually they improve the competitive position of the company.

“ISO 9001 is no longer a competitive advantage. It is a standard and Translas will be very soon part of it, which will be pleasing for our customers”, says Roel.

Internal Quality Management Vs Outsourced?

Starting a quality improvement project can be done in two ways: letting it in the hands of an external consultant or hiring someone internally on a Quality Management position. Even if your decision is to outsource, never forget that quality improvement is not just a project with a start and an end date; but a continuous process. For Translas, hiring in a person has proven beneficial to the company. From the point of view of a Quality Manager, Roel points out that working as part of the company is much more interactive and involving. This is what makes it more efficient and effective.

In the past years Translas has been undergoing a lot of changes in the way we work in order to become a better company and be able to satisfy our customers in a quicker manner. Involving ‘lean thinking’ in our manufacturing process has helped us big time. Therefore, we wanted to share what ‘lean’ is and how can it be applied at your company too. It works for manufacturers as it does for retailers and, basically, all kinds of companies. Not to mention that once you start seeing the benefits of the ‘lean’ way, you might start the principle into your everyday life too.

What Does ‘Lean’ Mean?

Literally the meaning of ‘lean’ (when reffered to a company or an organization) means ‘efficient and with no wastage’. So, this means going through a process as quick as possible and utilizing your resources smartly so there is no waste created. Waste of what? Waste of time, waste of money, waste of material, environmental waste, etc. When you get down to the core of ‘lean’, one can say it uses a lot of common sense in a structured way.
“Simply, lean means creating more value for customers with fewer resources.”
Lean Enterprise Institute

The Concept Of ‘Lean’

The concept of ‘lean’ by itself implies delivering customer value by optimizing processes in the company in order to increase company prosperity. How can you deliver faster the product to the customer? How can you provide the best service to the customer? Therefore, lean focuses on the customer needes; thus, is a customer-centric approach.
The concept is not applicable only to manufacturing, but also to services and many other aspects of daily activities, as we mentioned earlier.

The ‘House Of Lean’

The picture of the House of Lean aims to visualize the sequence in which the processes are applied. The idea is that first a stable base needs to be created before the tools are applied. After applying those ‘lean tools’ the goal of creating value for the customer is reached.
After the base is stably laid, the optimization continues in two directions (the two pillars) – optimizing the production and the quality. These steps lead to decrease in costs and better service or product delivery, which makes it more beneficial for the customer.
In later articles we will explain the different tools used by lean to achieve optimization in cost and delivery such as Kanban, which focuses on creating a smooth assembly process.
house of lean orange

How Translas Applies ‘Lean’? 3 Practical Tips

For more than 3 years now Translas has been succesfully applying ‘lean’ into the production process. And, we would like to show you how we do that.

The reason why we started off the lean project was because we wanted to deliver better products as well as better service to our customers.

Our production manager – Edwin Boer – is the head of the project who is responsible for its physical implementation. “It took one year to completely introduce the lean system into our working process but ‘lean’ is not just a project you start and you are done with in a certain period; ‘lean’ is a continuous process.”

1.Outsource: If you want to implement ‘lean’, the first step is to ask for an external advice. This is what Translas did. This is neccessary to make sure someone gives the right tips and advice and training to the staff. Having a person from the outside who is especially brought in to follow the process, makes sure that the implementation has been carefully followed and people are constantly reminded and motivated to follow the lean principles of work.

2.Engage all departments: ‘Lean’ is most of the time associated with process improvement in the production part of an organization. However, ‘lean’ is a way of thinking and it can be introduced in every department of an organization – marketing, finance, etc. Translas started with the production and assembly department and it went off to the rest of the departments; all of them are situated in our headquarter in the Netherlands. After fully implementing it in the production department, now we are focusing more on the rest of the organisation and hoping to improve significantly the working process in these areas by the end of this year.

3.Visualize: As mentioned before, part of the project includes staff training into how lean works. The staff should get a very clear picture of it. This is why in our education, we used Lego games to visualize the whole process. Another physical tools that we implemented because of ‘lean’ were molds and callibration tools to improve the precision of the production and, therefore, the quality of the products. But, also, to reduce significantly the waste by cutting down on producing parts that are not suitable for use. In this way, we make sure that every part we produce is ready to use without any deffects.
The results. After the succesful implementation of ‘lean’ the results came immediately. We shortened the delivery times to our customers. Now we have a smoothly running production and assembly processes and stock levels are under control.

“Everything is produced on demand according to the just-on-time phylosophy we have embraced” – says the director Jeroen Boer.
After three years of working on ‘lean’, Translas has achieved tremendous improvements that have positively affected the relationships with our customers and we are planning to keep on implementing this way of thinking throughout the whole organization.

Sources:

http://www.lean.org/whatslean/
http://www.graphicproducts.com/articles/house-of-lean.php