Author: Nedjine Doreus

In an example of creativity and resourcefulness, one of our teams at Iridian Spectral Technologies – a unit of IDEX specializing in designing and manufacturing thin-film, multi-layer high-performance filter optics – recently completed a remarkable rebuild of a Blanchard rotary surface grinder—transforming a decades-old, non-functional machine into a modern, production-ready asset.

The project began quietly in late 2022 when the control system of an early- ‘90s Blanchard unit failed. With no immediate need to bring it back online, the team initiated a low-priority effort to explore the feasibility of a full control system rebuild. The team drafted a preliminary design and ordered core components. They made initial progress, but soon paused the project. It remained that way until a second Blanchard unit failed earlier this year, prompting a shift in priorities.

What followed was a two-week sprint of innovation to refurbish the polishing machine. The team removed the outdated control system and servo, replacing them with a modern setup featuring a new servo, Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), and touch panel. Custom mounting plates and a replacement timing gear were fabricated to integrate the new components seamlessly. By the end of the second week, the machine was running a fully automatic grind cycle.

However, the journey didn’t stop there. A failed bearing in the main grinding motor posed another challenge. Historically, these specialized conical bearings were costly and slow to source. Demonstrating true ingenuity, the team located an identical alternative for a fraction of the cost—and had them delivered within 24 hours. After a careful motor rebuild, the machine passed testing and completed its first successful grind.

A particularly exciting discovery during the rebuild was a plate indicating the machine originally belonged to Semrock now part of IDEX Health & Science—adding a layer of history to this upcycling success story.

Fine-tuning continued with precision shimming of the cutting head and magnetic chuck, reducing part wedge from 130μm to just 5μm. The machine was released to production shortly after and has since been running reliably, producing high-quality parts with minimal variation.

Beyond restoring a pivotal machine, this project has broader benefits. A new grinder is about $250-300K USD. This upcycling project took three weeks and cost $5K USD. Additionally, the team now has a flexible, in-house control system compatible with most Blanchard 8AD-12 units. This opens the door to future upgrades and salvaging efforts, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new equipment while enhancing customization and workflow efficiency.

Based in Ottawa, Canada, Iridian Spectral Technologies is a global leader in designing and manufacturing thin-film, multi-layer high-performance filter optics.

In 1975, a vision was born to manufacture high performance sealing materials for the most demanding applications in the most critical industries. Today, Precision Polymer Engineering (PPE) proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Earlier this month, PPE hosted a 50^th Birthday Family Festival at Brockholes Nature Reserve in Preston, UK. This celebration was an opportunity for people from PPE’s past and present, and their families, to get together and enjoy a day of food and festivities.

Founded by Peter Cummings in a garage in Blackburn, PPE has grown to over 300 people working across cutting-edge manufacturing facilities in the United Kingdom, Texas, and Saudi Arabia. From those early days of experimentation in a small garage shop, PPE has evolved into a trusted name in sealing across aerospace, semiconductors, energy, and life sciences. They have pioneered materials like Perlast®, earned industry certifications, and expanded their reach across continents.

“Reaching our 50th year of operation is an incredible achievement, and it’s all thanks to the hard work and dedication of employees past and present, as well as the loyalty and trust of our valued customers and partners around the world,” said Carlos Uribe, President of Precision Polymer Engineering.

Eric Ashleman, CEO and President of IDEX Corporation, gave the following comments:

“Today we celebrate an incredible milestone—50 years of Precision Polymer Engineering. Like many great companies, the PPE story didn’t begin in a boardroom. What started as a small operation has grown into a global leader in high-performance sealing solutions.”

What’s next for Precision Polymer Engineering?

As Precision Polymer Engineering begins its next chapter, the company remains committed to identifying new ways to impact the sealing landscape in energy, life sciences, semiconductor manufacturing, and industrial applications. The team will also continue to be at the forefront of material innovation, improving performance and supporting our customers with reaching their sustainability goals as part of a more environmentally responsible future.

It was all paws on deck at Summit Assistance Dogs this week for Health & Science employees in Oak Harbor, Washington, U.S.A.

The Oak Harbor team rolled up their sleeves to help prepare for the grand opening of the brand-new Canine Condo!

Here’s what they accomplished:

• Cleaned 150 windows
• Vacuumed & mopped 4,800 sq ft of flooring
• Assembled 8 cozy doggie beds
• Walked and socialized service dogs

Summit Assistance Dogs provides highly skilled mobility service dogs to people living with disabilities, creating life-changing partnerships. The new Canine Condo will serve as a kennel facility for their resident pups—and it’s already making tails wag! 

The grand opening drew over 200 guests (plus lots of four-legged attendees), and everyone was impressed by the new space. THANK YOU to our volunteers and to the IDEX Foundation for their generous $60,000 donation to install specialized, long-lasting non-slip flooring in time for the big event.

IDEX Health & Science Fluidics innovates and manufactures fluidic components and assemblies that work within a broad range of performance parameters to support customer instrument development from concept, to prototype, and then to final production.

The programs and offerings of our IDEX Academy, led by the Global Talent Development Team, provide a transformative journey designed to unlock leaders’ potential worldwide.

In May, The IDEX Academy hosting three consecutive weeks of leadership development experiences.

While many leaders have additional sessions remaining to finish their program, they have accomplished a lot. Highlights include the MEP cohort touring the Hale Products facility in Ocala, FL; the BLE cohort diving into the new IDEX Strategic Advantage through an insightful panel featuring Hilary Bryant and Eric Berg; and the LEP cohort celebrating their achievements with a memorable graduation dinner.

Key Program Details

Business Leader Excellence Program (BLE) – Equips leaders for scalable growth and operational excellence as a General Manager.

Leadership Excellence Program (LEP) – Designed to accelerate senior leaders for impactful roles. Over ten months, participants dive into advanced decision-making and cultural stewardship, preparing them for substantial impact.

Management Excellence Program (MEP) – Targets high-potential talent, preparing them for future global leadership roles, ensuring a robust pipeline of capable leaders.

The small but mighty team leading the Academy were joined by 51 leaders from across the globe, each program purpose-built for the challenges of today and the needs of tomorrow.

Kids who have experienced burn injuries can face self-esteem challenges as the world around them judges their physical appearance. That’s why Hale Products, a unit of IDEX Fire & Safety, is proudly partnering with Embers of Hope to sponsor their 2025 Burn Survivor Camp, providing young burn survivors with a life-changing experience filled with healing, support, and fun.

In March, Hale presented an IDEX Foundation donation of $28,000 to the Marion County Firefighters Benevolence Fund to support the 2025 Embers of Hope Burn Survivor Camp. Throughout camp, Hale also contributed their time by setting up activities, serving meals and filling back-to-school backpacks. This camp offers young burn survivors from across Florida a safe space for healing, support, and unforgettable experiences. 

For many of the young survivors, the camp is not just a vacation. It is an opportunity to heal and bond with others who share similar experiences. 

“By supporting Embers of Hope camp, Hale Products allows the children and young adults an opportunity to feel a sense of belonging, that they are not alone in this tough road they are facing,” Hale customer service lead Susan Bartlett said. “At the same time offering family members time of respite, while the kids learn coping skills and develop friendships with other youth facing the same challenges.” 

The Power of the Burn Survivors Camp 

The Embers of Hope Burn Survivor Camp is a free 4-day, 3-night camp held at Lake Swan Camp in Melrose, Florida, for children ages 6 through 17 who have sustained a burn injury. The camp’s mission is clear: “empower children to embrace their burns while fostering a sense of community among peers.” 

The camp provides an environment where children not only engage in traditional summer camp activities like swimming, canoeing, and arts and crafts, but also attend workshops on self-esteem, body image, and coping strategies, led by experienced counselors and professionals from the burn community. By offering these unique experiences, the camp helps children develop a healthy self-image and equips them with the emotional tools needed for their journey as survivors.

“Embers of Hope demonstrates that our efforts save lives daily,” said Hale customer service manager Stephen Santa Fe, who worked closely with Ember of Hope founder Rebekah Johnson and the IDEX Foundation to secure funding for the camp. “Providing this camp for children and witnessing the positive impact it has on their lives fills me with pride and joy. The support from IDEX and Hale further strengthens my belief in the value of our work and the product we offer.” 

A Vital Partnership 

Hale’s commitment to safety and innovation in the fire industry aligns seamlessly with their partnership with the Marion County Firefighters and Embers of Hope. 

“The Hale team, renowned for its expertise in world-class fire and safety equipment, is committed to delivering high-quality, comprehensive solutions that address mission-critical problems, save lives, and enhance global safety,” Hale site leader Palmer Pendleton said. “Our partnership with Marion County Fire and Embers of Hope underscores Hale’s steadfast dedication to our values of Trust, Team, and Excellence not only in the industry we serve but also in our community.” 

A Symbol of Hope 

As the 2025 camp prepares for its transformative experiences, the partnership between Hale and Embers of Hope stands as a powerful example of what can be accomplished when businesses and nonprofits come together for the greater good. This donation is not just a financial contribution—it is an investment in the future of burn survivors, their families, and the broader community. It is a symbol of hope, resilience, and unwavering support. 

“We are grateful to the Marion County Fire Department and Embers of Hope for allowing Hale Products to be part of their story,” Pendleton said. 

To enhance career development opportunities for their production workforce, Advanced Flow Solutions (AFS) hosted their first Career Day event. Initiated by HR Leaders Aubrey and Brittany, the event reinforced employee benefits, current advancement opportunities and more.

AFS President Mike Brown opened the event by reaffirming his dedication to investing in career development for his team. He shared a brief overview of his own professional journey, highlighting how he began as an engineer at Flow Management Devices (FMD) and progressed to become a General Manager at IDEX businesses such as FMD and STC Material Solutions.

Following the kick-off, Software and Electrical Engineer Manager Marty and Quality Engineer Tanner welcomed attendees as the event’s co-hosts with insights on their personal growth journeys, setting the stage for a day of learning. The agenda covered topics like the company’s tuition reimbursement policy, applying for internal positions, and attending local technical schools, emphasizing diverse career paths.

A standout moment was when an attendee asked if advancement was possible without a degree, sparking a discussion around on-the-job training and certifications. Leaders highlighted that success isn’t solely dependent on a degree, with growth opportunities available through cross-training and skill development.

The event ended with employees feeling empowered and inspired to explore various career paths. The HR team was thrilled with the event’s success and plans to host similar future events. Career Day was a catalyst for change, encouraging employees to take charge of their professional journeys!

Based on Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.A, AFS is a group of IDEX Fluid and Metering Technologies (FMT) businesses that provide the refined fuels, LPG, and aviation fuels markets with mission critical fluid measurement and movement devices such as flow meters, pumps, compressors and integrated flow systems.