Thoughts from the CEO
I recently had a chance to ask our CEO Steve Byrnes some questions about his experience with the evolution of the blasting industry. Here’s what he had to say:
Question: What drew you to Guyson Corp USA and what has your journey been like with the company?
Answer: When I joined Guyson in 2005, the company had about 30 employees. I was intrigued by the blasting and finishing industry since I had never been involved in it during my previous careers. Guyson was a machine builder, albeit with some fairly crude designs compared to what I was used to, but they sold equipment to very large and prestigious companies across various industries. Additionally, Guyson’s location was just a few miles from where I grew up.
Question: In your opinion, what have been the most significant milestones in the evolution of industrial blasting technology?
Answer: Many companies today still use manual hand-blast cabinets. It amazes me that even critical parts for medical and aerospace applications are sometimes hand-blasted, which leads to inconsistent quality. When we inspect sample parts given to us, the quality varies greatly.
One significant milestone was when I introduced robots into Troy-Bilt tillers in 1980. At that time, as a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, I was involved in launching a new rear tine tiller. The GM/Fanuc robots loaded CNC lathes and Gleason gear-cutting machines, replacing manual operations done by humans. They worked very well.
In 2008, I introduced robots into Guyson’s operations. This innovation was a highlight of the IMTS 2008 show, as no company had ever integrated robots into a blast machine before. This advancement marked a significant step forward in automating and improving the precision of blasting technology.
Question: What are some of the most innovative advancements in blasting media and equipment you’ve seen during your career?
CEO Steve Byrnes in 2013. Bringing robotics to the forefront of blasting.
Answer: Guyson was the first company to develop a tool changer for use on our robotic machines. We have several designs tailored to different applications. The first tool changer, which has been in operation at Asco Aerospace since 2012, is still going strong.
Additionally, we have invested heavily in the coating industry, focusing on sectors such as cutting tools, medical devices, aerospace, and firearms. Guyson is the leading supplier of blasting machines to the firearms industry. We’ve developed a special stainless steel media called Firearms Blend, which is superior for preparing surfaces for anodizing or applying Cerakote.
Question: What current trends do you see shaping the future of industrial blasting technology?
Answer: Our Guyson machines are highly energy-efficient. Our blast guns outperform competitors, achieving more work with the same amount of air or energy. I foresee an increased use of robots with simpler programming languages, reminiscent of the trend in the 1970s with the introduction of CNC machines.
Question:Where do you see the industry headed in the next 5-10 years?
Answer: In the next 5 years, I don’t foresee a lot of innovation or movement occurring. The blasting and finishing industry plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance of many products currently in use. However, there seems to be a prevailing notion among manufacturing companies that manual operations are sufficient, and this mindset may hinder significant advancements in the near term.
Question: How can businesses ensure they are staying ahead of the curve in terms of technology and innovation?
Answer: EDUCATION. Education is key. Decision-makers in manufacturing companies must thoroughly understand the intricacies of various processes. This knowledge empowers them to steer the company in the right direction, preventing quality failures and avoiding lost profits.
Question: How do you envision your legacy in the field of industrial blasting technology?
Answer: In my 20 years with Guyson, we have achieved numerous breakthroughs. We hold two patents, have constructed over 140 robot machines, pioneered the introduction of a tool changer, and developed our own robot suits and curtains. We leverage 3D printing for fixtures, EOAT, and masks, and expanded with a new Cerakote line for firearms customers. Our commitment extends to investing in cutting-edge testing equipment for our lab and providing extensive training in robot programming, machine assembly, and machining for our team.
Since 2005, Guyson has experienced nearly 300% growth and is widely recognized as a leader in robotics and automation machines.
