Contract chemical processing and packaging with Andrew Neuschaefer

Key takeaways

NBN Powder Packaging addresses diverse needs in the chemical industry, providing essential toll processing and packaging services.
The company boasts advanced capabilities, with 13 operational lines and a focus on long-term client relationships.
Current industry trends post-COVID-19 reveal a growing preference for domestic sourcing, adapting to challenges while maintaining efficiency.
Innovative problem-solving techniques are crucial for handling complex processing issues, highlighting the company's value.
Safety measures and sustainability initiatives are increasingly important aspects of processing and packaging operations.

Summary

Introduction to NBN Powder Packaging

In this episode, host Nate Todd is joined by Andrew Newshaper, co-founder and managing partner at NBN Powder Packaging, to discuss the company’s services and the environment of contract processing in the chemical industry. NBN serves a diverse range of clients from small distributors to major chemical companies, helping them with bottleneck issues and providing capabilities like blending, screening, and repackaging materials.

Capabilities and Operations of NBN

Andrew shares insights about NBN's facilities, boasting 13 operational lines ranging from blending to bagging. Although they handle around 80 million pounds annually, the company is not yet at full capacity. NBN’s business model leans heavily towards long-term partnerships, addressing around 80% of their work as ongoing projects, while 20% is focused on one-off problem-solving assignments.

Trends and Challenges in Contract Chemical Processing

The conversation shifts to the current trends in the industry, particularly how companies are adapting following COVID-19 and tariffs. Andrew notes a growing creativity among businesses in sourcing domestic materials to mitigate costs. The discussion also touches on specific challenges faced, such as handling materials that arrive overseas in compromised conditions, leading to agglomeration, which requires unique solutions.

Innovative Solutions to Processing Challenges

Andrew elaborates on some of the more difficult challenges NBN has tackled, including instances of heavily agglomerated materials that required customized machinery and manual labor to resolve. These scenarios emphasize the value NBN adds by salvaging materials that would otherwise be wasted, demonstrating their ingenuity in problem-solving.

Automation, Safety and Sustainability in Processing

Finally, Andrew discusses how automation and data analytics play a role in their operations, emphasizing a semi-automated process to maintain flexibility. Safety remains a priority, especially in dealing with powders and chemicals, with structured protocols in place. Sustainability trends in customer expectations for packaging are also highlighted, signaling a shift toward more environmentally friendly approaches.

Show notes

The co-founder and managing partner of NBN Powder Packaging talks with senior editor Nate Todd about trends and challenges in chemical toll processing.