Our annual R&D; Directory is a buyers’ resource that provides supplier* details for equipment, instruments, and services targeted for research and development applications. Use this guide as a handy way to find suppliers throughout the year

Research and development (R&D;) is a key driver for growth in the ceramic, glass, refractories, brick and related industries. Any company that does not innovate is almost sure to stagnate and eventually lose ground to more forward-thinking competitors. This issue includes our annual R&D; Directory to help manufacturers find the best supplier partners for their specific research and development efforts.

In April 2016, Kyocera International Inc. began a $10 million expansion project for its Vancouver, Wash., manufacturing facility, increasing the existing 40,000-sq-ft space by 45% to 58,000 sq ft. Originally built in 1992 as a R&D; center for advanced ceramic materials, the location now produces high-value-added engineered ceramic components for structural, functional and mechanical applications on a custom order basis.

The new 50,000-sq-ft plant reportedly houses four overhead cranes with capacities ranging from 10-25 tons.

The sector’s turnover is expected to pass the €2 billion (approximately $2.1 billion) mark for the first time in its history.

Brocklehurst retires after 25 years as a sales engineer, territory sales manager, and general counsel for thermal processing.

The reactor reportedly will be used for drying and calcining Prayon’s advanced iron phosphate powder.

Thermcraft manufactures rotary tube furnaces for use in many different applications.

Follow up with the suppliers listed in the Equipment Digest to request more information about the equipment and machinery you need to help your business succeed.