The Cornwell Tools Customization Project allows storage unit customers to go online to configure their toolbox to exact specifications, including their choice of colors. They can choose their favorite sports team, college or other color preferences with a click of a mouse. More than 500,000 combinations are possible.
Hydro’s ability to accommodate customization by supplying components sized for a wide variety of toolboxes was a primary reason Waterloo chose us. Another reason was our ability to achieve the high quality finish required for the storage units.
We extrude the profiles through one of the seven-inch presses at our Monett, Missouri, plant using a standard 6063 aluminum alloy with 75 percent recycled stock. This alloy is particularly suited for anodizing and holding a highly polished finish. Since we source the aluminum from our own Monett cast house operations, we were able to assure Waterloo of a consistent raw material supply.
Wide range of parts
The project includes 10 to 15 profiles fabricated into between 100 and 150 SKUs. The wide range of parts results from the different component lengths and profile combinations necessary for the toolbox options available to the end customer.
The aluminum trim pieces require a Class 1 surface finish because they are exposed on the storage unit. A Class 1 surface finish demands special handling by the team at Monett along with packaging designed to protect surface quality during shipping and handling.
In addition to extruding the trim components, Hydro performs cut-to-length, deburr, drill countersink, and notch operations. We partner with a high end supplier for polishing, anodizing and powder coating. The finish meets automotive quality standards. We send the components to Nogales, Mexico for assembly by Waterloo.
With customization, Waterloo orders bulk parts based on customer buying patterns. Their sales volume requires a continuing pipeline of orders with a turn around time from order placement to delivery ranging from six to eight weeks.
Waterloo Industries, Inc., an operating division of Fortune Brands, Inc., is the world's largest supplier of tool storage products with over 80 years of manufacturing excellence. The company excels in producing quality customized tools for industry.
More information is available at www.waterlooindustries.com.
