Inside Our Custom Paint Project with Jaylew Engineering
A bespoke industrial paint approach for Jaylew Engineering
Specialising in heavy industry and the rail sector, Jaylew Engineering Ltd is perhaps best known for a critical piece of infrastructure: large-scale train brake discs. These high-precision components are manufactured in Grantham before being shipped to clients across the UK, Ireland, and as far afield as Africa.
Recently, we went to visit Jaylew Engineering at their manufacturing site who have been a staple of the subcontract precision machining and fabrication sector since 1970. The paint finish on their products is of the utmost importance and we met up with Andrew Fletcher, MD, to discuss their changing needs and how Witham Group have helped them develop bespoke industrial paint solutions for their growing business.
The Challenge: Fumes and Finish
When shipping heavy-duty cast iron components across continents, protection is everything. To ensure their brake discs arrive in peak condition, Jaylew applies a coating of Woco Red Oxide primer to prevent rust and oxidation during transit. However, finding the right formula proved to be a significant challenge.
For years, the team used a solvent-based primer. While effective, it created a difficult working environment. Without a dedicated, closed-off spray booth, solvent fumes would fill the factory floor. Naturally, Managing Director Andrew Fletcher wanted to switch to a water-based alternative to improve air quality and safety for his staff.
The transition wasn’t simple he explains.
“In the past, we tried water-based paints, but they just didn’t work with our process.In precision machining, there is always a residue of coolants or fluids left on the metal. The previous water-based paints would react with those residues, leading to poor adhesion and low-quality results.”
The Witham Solution: A Custom Formula
Witham Group was able to offer specialist technical support and advice to help solve this problem. Rather than offering a “one-size-fits-all” product, Witham’s technical paint expert, Dave Lagden, worked closely with the Jaylew team to develop a bespoke water-based formula.
By introducing a specific additive designed to neutralise the effects of production residues, we created a primer that bonds perfectly to the cast iron, straight at the end of the machining process. This resulted in a high-quality, professional finish that protects the product without the harsh fumes of traditional solvents.
Andrew Fletcher commented “The paint product is very easy to use, and we’ve had no problems at all. But beyond the paint, it’s the personal relationship with the sales team that stands out. It’s a simple, competitive process, and we value the ease of dealing with another local business that understands our needs.”
Whether it’s improving factory conditions or solving a complex technical coating issue, we are honoured to support Jaylew Engineering as they keep the world’s railways and other machinery parts moving. We are proud that our partnership has been established for over 8 years and look forward to working with them over the years ahead.
Witham’s Dave Lagden (Right) on hand with a paint sprayer from Jaylew.
For more information about our range of industrial paints and coatings, contact Dave Lagden on 07793 722015, your local depot or visit our website: withamgroup.co.uk
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