ASC Process Systems, Inc.

Today, Angel was welding some 8 Schedule-40 pipe sections in the shop. Welding pipe is a multi-stage process that includes beveling the pipe (grinding the end of each pipe to have a 60 degree included angle), fit-up (positioning pipe sections together with a small gap), root pass (the first weld that fills the gap and ensures full metal penetration), multiple fill (or cover) passes (additional welding to fill up beveled area to the thickness of the pipe), and then a final cap pass (what you see when it’s all done). Let’s also not forget that after each weld pass, the slag and surface deformities are chipped or removed with a grinder. This can be a lengthy process, but if you’re a good pipe welder like Angel, it happens seamlessly. Fun stuff! #ASCCool #ASCWelding #ASCMechanic #ASCEducate

A good paint job starts with good preparation. We caught Ramon today sanding, filling, and buffing the autoclave door to remove small nicks and scratches that are common during the head forming process. After prep, Ramon will apply primer and then two coats of machinery enamel paint. Did you know that ASC’s standard color is called Blue Jean? #ASCMechanic

ASC is getting SCARRRYYYY! Over the weekend, our entire office was decorated with skeletons, witches, spiders, and spooky knickknacks for all to enjoy. Even though we won’t be doing our annual Halloween party, it doesn’t mean we can’t dress up things better than ever and enjoy the scary festivities. Happy Halloween! #ASCHalloween #ASCTrickorTreat

Today, Brian (Lead Mechanical Fabricator) was building a vacuum source rack assembly for his Econoclave EC3x5 project. Although other companies save some money by using copper and plastic tubing for vacuum lines, ASC has always standardized on the more robust stainless-steel materials for this critical assembly. The tubing is used not only to connect valves and traps together on the rack, but it is also used for connecting the through-vessel feed through pipes on the autoclave to the vacuum rack. #ASCMechanic #ASCEngineering #ASCEducate

We won’t let Covid get us down. Although we usually have baskets of candy placed around the company during Halloween month, Covid has made that practice a bit too risky. So, we decided to make personal candy bags for every employee instead. Maricela and Mario are busy stuffing and arranging bags and will be handing them out to all employees in the next couple of days. With over 7000 pieces and 660 bags available, everyone will have the opportunity to feel like they had a night of trick-or-treating. Who says the kids get to have all the fun? #ASCHalloween #ASCTrickorTreat

Look who showed up at the photo-shoot today - a brand new Econoclave EC3.7mx10.6m. This unit is a custom gas-heated autoclave which utilizes two rear-mounted burners to provide heating during the cure cycle. After final inspections, it will be delivered and installed at a major UK aerospace company. Also pictured are the team members who helped make it happen, including (Back) Chuy, Lupe, Kevin, Jon, Oswaldo, (Front) Nestor, Marcos, Andrew, Javier. Well done gentlemen! #Autoclave #Econoclave #ASCCool

Jaime sure spiced things up at ASC today when he brought in bags of Ghost Peppers and Carolina Reepers for his coworkers to sample. The results were as expected watering eyes, red faces, and lots of water drinking. If you haven’t already guessed, Jaime likes to grow hot pepper plants. Tonight, after work, he plans on bringing more to a family get-together, where he will see who is able to take the heat. We can only hope that his family has a relatively pain-free experience. Have fun. #ASCFamily

Most of the work we do entails building new equipment, but every now and then we refurbish some old stuff? Today, Gus (Manufacturing Engineering Manager) was doing a quick run-through analysis on this vintage 1980 Baron Blakeslee autoclave that will soon be upgraded with new valves, components, instrumentation, power panel, and control system. #ASCRetrofit

Ben Brody is back with another Coronavirus video detailing how you can stay safe while working or traveling in the field. If you’re working or traveling in the field for any reason, this video is a must-watch! It could save your life. #ASCCovid19 #ASCSafety https://youtu.be/AdKLanBZHoo

Today we came across Henry hooking up and testing incoming power on a new 3.7m x 10.6m Econoclave. This Econoclave is being tested in our shop and then will hop on a boat to our aerospace customer in the UK. When autoclaves are used in the United States, the are designed for 460 volt / 3 phase power, however because this will be operating in the UK, it is designed for 415 volts. That means changes to all motors and transformers. When we test a 415V unit, we connect a large step-down transformer in between our plant power connection and the Econoclave to drop our normal 480V power to 415V. Fortunately, everything is done safely and by-the-book. #ASCElectrical #FunFact

Another ASC baby is on the way! This time a little girl. Daisy is expecting and her due date is right around the corner. Daisy has been with us just over 6 years and this will be her firstborn so, today we held a lovely ASC baby shower for her with gifts, cupcakes, and urban café. We are very excited for her and the new little addition to her family. Congratulations Daisy! #ASCBabyShower #ASCFamily

Look who is celebrating his 15 year ASC anniversary! Ethan Sales Manager Extraordinaire!!! Over 15 years, Ethan has sold over $150 Million in autoclaves and ovens, has brought in over 350 projects, has gotten married, has become a father, has purchased a home, has gained 30 pounds, has lost 30 pounds, and has cut (or lost) most of his hair. When Ethan started with ASC, we had fewer than 50 employees, and today we are creeping close to 250. Thanks, Ethan for being such a huge part of the ASC family. Happy 15th!! #ASCFamily #ASCAnniversary

Albert (Mech Engineer II/Project manager) is showing off two custom steam diffusers that he designed for his large concrete autoclave project. The diffusers are used to dissipate huge amounts of steam when the autoclave curing cycle is completed. #ASCCool #ASCFunFact #ASCEngineering