SCB Expands, Renovates R&D

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. – Specialty Construction Brands (SCB),recently completed a major renovation and expansion to its research and development laboratory in Palatine, Ill.
Completed in March, the yearlong expansion and renovation of the Research and New Product Development Laboratory continues the manufacturer of TEC® brands’ long-standing commitment to innovation, said Jim Griffin, SCB president and general manager.
Griffin said the project also signifies SCB’s dedication to supporting the industry through a variety of R&D-led programs, including product training seminars and ongoing workshops.
“We made this investment in people and equipment because we believe in the value of technology to address our customers’ needs.” Griffin said. “We’re committed to helping customers understand how to capitalize on the technology behind the solutions that will ultimately contribute to their success.”
The ISO 9001 certified laboratory is the company’s focal point for researching new technologies and making improvements to existing brands as dictated by the evolving marketplace. It is now one of the few laboratories in the industry that meets both global (ISO) and American National Standards Institute specifications for formulating and testing of grout and tile setting material.
The project involved a complete remodeling of the existing facility. It also doubled the bench-testing space, and further developed an area used to apply tile-setting products under simulated on-site project conditions. The renovation also expanded the temperature and humidity-controlled environment throughout the laboratory.
“This facility’s equipment and highly skilled and experienced staff ensures that our brands continue to lead the industry. When we introduce a product, it’s thoroughly tested to deliver superior performance,” said Gregory Schad, SCB technical director.
Schad added that SCB has doubled its technical support staff during the past three years.