Through recent tax reforms, manufacturers have been able to create more jobs with higher wages and, in turn, have reported the highest positive outlook on record in recent years. With all of this positive change, it is important for industry players to stay abreast in the field. Networking is a critical way to meet and advance with potential clients and business partners alike. Together, we can experience the latest trends and find best practices to move manufacturing forward.
The 2019 NPCA Precast Show will take place February 28 to March 2 at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville, Kentucky. This is the largest trade show of its kind in North America, showcasing a wide range of industry suppliers, experts, and brand names. With hundreds of companies exhibiting, industry leaders will be there to show off their latest innovations.
Mid-American Truck Show
The 2019 Mid-American Truck Show is widely hailed as the must-attend trucking event of the year for carriers and industry stakeholders alike. This conference is where the industry comes together to see the latest innovations in trucking firsthand.
Attendees will be able to observe the newest technologies, learn about news and trends from industry experts and keynote speakers, and connect with industry peers and vendors. The event is from March 28 to 30 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
ACPA Annual Convention
The American Concrete Pipe Association Annual Convention will be held from March 23 to March 26 in Indian Wells, California. Here, industry experts will share the technological advancements that are driving the industry. This event is filled with panels and planning sessions that will be of interest to any industry stakeholders, not to mention, the perfect opportunity to network.
Sharing Industry Innovations
These shows are attended by buyers, suppliers, and manufacturing businesses serving a variety of industries including transportation, automotive, distribution and freight, construction, pipe manufacturing, and a range of other general industry attendees. We are excited to share our latest in rubber and polymer extrusions and moldings, and answer any questions our fellow attendees may have about our product line.
Stay in Touch
You don’t have to wait for a trade show to get current industry news and trends from Universal Polymer & Rubber. Follow us on our blog, Twitter, and LinkedIn. For more information on our products and services, contact us today.
Manufacturing is often the art of managing the unpredictable. Whether it’s producing rubber and plastic extrusions, molded parts, or die-cut components, every process faces challenges. Success depends on preparation, reliable suppliers, and consistent materials. Below are some of the most common factors that can disrupt production—and how to minimize their impact.
Material Inconsistency in Manufacturing
When working with multiple suppliers, it can be difficult to maintain consistency across all materials. Even small changes in compounds or specifications can affect how parts perform. That’s why coordination and quality control are essential. Reliable suppliers ensure uniformity, helping manufacturers avoid setbacks and costly rework.
Weather and Supply Chain Disruptions
Unpredictable weather often brings manufacturing to a halt, with snow, ice, heavy rain, and road closures delaying shipments or pausing production altogether. Even short disruptions can create ripple effects that slow schedules and increase costs, making flexibility in the supply chain essential. One way companies reduce this risk is by working with domestic manufacturers, where shorter shipping routes and closer proximity improve communication, responsiveness, and reliability—helping ensure critical parts and materials arrive when needed, even when the forecast doesn’t cooperate.
The Human Element on the Production Floor
No matter how advanced the process, people still play a central role in manufacturing. From operating machinery to monitoring quality, human factors influence production. Preparation and training help reduce errors, but understanding that people are part of the process is equally important.
Reducing Risks Through Preparation
Preventative and Predictive Maintenance
Keeping equipment in top condition significantly lowers the chance of sudden breakdowns. Preventative maintenance ensures machines continue to perform reliably, while predictive approaches use data to identify issues before they become problems.
Strong Supplier Relationships
Trustworthy suppliers make a world of difference. When you know a supplier stands behind their work, you can rely on consistent quality and responsive service. If an issue arises, a dependable partner will help resolve it quickly.
How UP&R Helps Manage Manufacturing Challenges
At Universal Polymer & Rubber, we know that preparation and reliability are key to overcoming unpredictability. As trusted domestic manufacturers, our rubber extrusion, rubber molding, and die cutting capabilities are backed by strict quality standards and responsive customer support. From gaskets and seals to straps and tubes, we deliver products you can count on.
Ready to Start Your Next Project?
UP&R manufactures high-quality polymer parts through molding, extrusion, and die-cutting. With decades of experience, we provide dependable service and consistent results every time.
Request a quote and let us put our expertise to work for your next project.
Ready to Get to Work?
Let UP&R roll up our sleeves and tackle your rubber and sponge challenges head-on.
