Comprehensive Product Portfolio

At the heart of Our Place in Paper’s offerings lies a diverse array of colorants spanning various platforms. Whether you’re in search of direct dyes, basic dyes, or pigment dispersions, we have you covered. Our extensive product range ensures that you’ll find the perfect solution to meet your specific coloration requirements.

Superior Performance and Quality Assurance

Quality is paramount in everything we do. Our pigments boast excellent lightfastness properties and are free from granulation issues, guaranteeing consistent and long-lasting coloration. Furthermore, our ISO 9001 certified manufacturing and laboratory facilities serve as a testament to our commitment to quality assurance and customer satisfaction.

Tailored Solutions and Technical Expertise

Navigating the world of colorants can be daunting, which is why our dedicated team of lab technicians is here to assist you every step of the way. Whether you need help selecting the optimal dye for your papermaking needs or require assistance with testing and execution, our experts are on hand to provide personalized guidance and support.

Innovative Packaging Solutions

In addition to our cutting-edge colorants, we offer innovative packaging solutions designed to streamline your manufacturing processes and minimize waste. Our pulpable bag packaging options not only facilitate easy integration into your production workflow but also help maintain a clean and efficient working environment.

10 Point Advantages of Partnering with Us

1. Broad Product Range: Across various colorant platforms.
2. Dedicated Color Laboratories: Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
3. Laboratory Scale Papermaking Capability: Ensuring accurate color and strength verification.
4. Expert Technical Support: Access to knowledgeable color analysts and technical sales staff.
5. Flexible Packaging Options: Tailored to your specific requirements.
6. Supply Chain Redundancy: Multiple production sites for enhanced reliability.
7. Scalable Production Capabilities: Catering to small to large-scale operations.
8. Comprehensive Chemical Solutions: Including fixing agents, optical brighteners, resins, coatings, and more.
9. Advanced Water Treatment Chemistries: Ensuring environmental sustainability.
10. Extensive Industry Experience: Across paper, wood, composites, nonwovens, and cellulosic fibers.

Conclusion

At First Source Worldwide, we understand the pivotal role that colorants play in the papermaking process. With our comprehensive product range, unwavering commitment to quality, and dedicated technical support, we aim to empower paper manufacturers to unlock new possibilities in coloration and enhance the appeal of their products. Join us on the journey to elevate your paper quality and leave a lasting impression with every sheet produced.

The post Our Place in Paper first appeared on First Source Worldwide.

This philosophy of 5S extends beyond mere production floors; it permeates every corner of our organization, from visual control to lean production areas. Recognizing that the condition of our workspaces speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence, we prioritize maintaining impeccable 5S standards. After all, these standards not only shape our employees’ experiences but also serve as the bedrock of our customers’ initial impressions.

Goal = “Best In Class” for Performance, Safety & Customer Image!

The 5S quality tool is derived from five Japanese terms beginning with the letter “S” used to create a workplace suited for visual control and lean production. The English language pillars of 5S are simple to learn and important to implement:

• SORT: To separate needed tools, parts, and instructions from unneeded materials and to remove the unneeded ones.
• SET: To neatly arrange and identify parts and tools for ease of use.
• SHINE: To conduct a cleanup campaign.
• STANDARDIZE: To develop daily routines to maintain a workplace in perfect condition.
• SUSTAIN: To form the habit of always following the first four S’s, by auditing: “Inspect what you Expect.”

SORT

The Sort step separates items in your workspace that you know you need from those that you do not need or may

not need by moving the “un-needed” to a “red tag” holding area (place for people to browse latter or dispose). 

Why Do You Need Sort?

• Sort enables you to have a more productive workspace by removing unneeded clutter (and eliminating distractions). It also is a first step towards opening up the space to be used for other things.

How Do You Implement Sort?

• Separate necessary items (e.g., tools, parts, and materials) from unnecessary items. Recommend sorting items into four categories:

1. Items needed in this work area. These are items you know that you regularly use in the context of this work area and thus will stay in this work area.
2. Items needed in another work area. Essentially, these are misplaced items. If an item is used in another work area, “sort” it into that area by delivering it to whomever is responsible for that work area.
3. Items you may need. For items you are unsure about, use the 5S “red tag” system. Mark such items with tags, which at a minimum, should include the name of who tagged the item, why it is thought to no longer be needed, a proposed review date, and the name of the manager who must approve of disposal. Move the item to a red tag holding area, which should be organized by review month to make it easy to manage the area.
4. Items you do not need. These are items that you are 100% confident are not needed. They should be immediately discarded.

SET

The Set step thoroughly organizes the items that remain after sorting, such that frequently used items are easy to access and every item has a clear and easy-to-find home.

Why Do You Need to Set?

• Set enables every item to have a specific home where it can be easily found and to which it can be easily returned. It reduces the waste from excess motion as items are placed in more ergonomic locations. It is also the second step towards opening up space to be used for other things.

How Do You Implement Set?

After you’ve sorted items, it’s time to decide how you want to organize them. Recommend the following methodology:

1. Provide easy access to frequently used items. The key to reducing waste from excess motion is to place frequently used items within easy reach.
2. Group like items. Group the remaining items into logical categories and brainstorm the best way to organize and store each of these categories.
3. Visualize item homes. For each group, decide on the best way to make it clear when an item is missing or misplaced. A classic example is creating a shadow board for tools.
4. Use containers. If it is appropriate for the type of item, consider organizing it within a container.
5. Label items. If an item is too big to put into a container, find a place to store it and put a label on the item / area.
6. Be agile. Your initial set pass will likely deliver a significant improvement – but you are also likely to overlook some potential improvements. Meet with your team after one week and again after two weeks to brainstorm further improvements as part of your initial implementation.

SHINE

The Shine step improves the work area by thoroughly cleaning and inspecting tools, equipment, and other items.

Why Do You Need to Shine?

• Shine creates a work environment that engages and empowers operators by giving them more responsibility over their work area. It also helps them to identify problems before they interfere with production. For example, in a clean work environment, it is much easier to spot emerging issues such as fluid leaks, material spills, metal shavings from unexpected wear, hairline cracks in mechanisms, etc.

How Do You Implement Shine?

After you’ve set items, it’s time to elevate the work area by cleaning, inspecting, and in some cases performing routine maintenance. Recommend the following:

1. Clean…Clean…Clean. Using appropriate cleaners and cleaning tools, make the work area sparkle. With every sweep, mop, brush, wipe, wash, and wax, strive to return your workspace to its former glory.
2. Find the source. The guiding principle of this step is “clean to understand.” If there are any signs of leaks, spills, or unexpected debris, strive to understand the source. It is likely an early warning of a future problem.
3. Inspect. After cleaning each item, take a moment to look it over and examine its condition. Does it need updating, maintenance, or repair.

STANDARDIZE

The Standardize step is a bridge between the first three steps (Sort, Set, Shine) and the last step (Sustain).

In this step, your goal is to capture best practices for 5S as standardized (pictures & checklists) work for your team.

Why Do You Need to Standardize?

• Standardize makes 5S repeatable. It transforms 5S from a one-off project to a reproducible set of activities.

How Do You Implement Standardize?

It’s time to make sure all your hard work continues to pay dividends into the future. Set expectations for the future with a documented 5S process. To do so, we recommend that you:

1. Capture the essence. Focus on the important things! Capture the essence of each task and no more. Otherwise, your documentation will very likely not be maintained.
2. Prefer checklists. Checklists feel easy. Short checklists feel even easier. A great format is to have a name for each task that serves as a quick reminder and a more detailed description for training.
3. Organize to simplify. Organize your checklists by role, by shift, and by frequency (daily, weekly, monthly). This will make the 5S process much less intimidating to your team.
4. Final Picture of Standard: Post a picture of how the area is to look (clean, organized, labeled, etc.).

SUSTAIN

The Sustain step assures that 5S is applied on an ongoing basis. It transforms your standardized 5S processes into regularly completed tasks through Empowerment & Accountability.

Why Do You Need to Sustain?

• “Inspect What You Expect” on 5S processes to lock in your gains and ensure further and continued progress.

How Do You Implement Sustain?

Once you’ve standardized, it’s time to continually act upon those standards.

1. Create a schedule. Develop 5S practices as scheduled tasks (by role (production & supervision), shift, and frequency).
2. Teach through demonstration. Instruct employees on how to conduct 5S tasks through demonstration and training. Showing employees what is expected of them will prepare them to complete tasks on their own.
3. Supervise to solo. After initial 5S training for employees, gently supervise while they continue to form habits. It is easy to make mistakes or fall off the wagon, so patiently and helpfully offer corrections when necessary.
4. Adapt as necessary. When giving or receiving feedback on tasks, see where changes can be made to make the tasks easier and more efficient. Standardized work is intended to be living documentation.

Presentation Case – in each common area

• Area Standard Pictures (what is it supposed to look like)
• Weekly Champion Checklist (daily sign off)
• Management Audit (12-month retention)

Low Cost – High Visual Impact

• Selection of proper cleaning tools (brooms, dust pans, scrappers, floor dry, etc.)
  • Labeled area (tool bar to hang up items), tool shadow boards, or containers
• Paint: Floor markings, Aisle lines, Aisle locations
  • Items in area marked out on floor / wall (garbage, equip, etc.)
• Broken pallet replacement, Small pallet replacement
• Broken powder bag repack into drums for internal use
• Drums need pallet straps
• Boxes higher than 2, need shrink wrapping
• Presentation Display Cases – hung in local area (can combine some areas)

In conclusion, at First Source Worldwide, our steadfast dedication to excellence is the driving force behind all our endeavors. This commitment is vividly demonstrated through the comprehensive implementation of 5S methodology across our sites. 5S is not merely a set of principles but a philosophy deeply ingrained in our culture.

As outlined in the 5S methodology, each step—Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain—plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficacy and longevity of our efforts. Through meticulous sorting, thoughtful organization, rigorous cleanliness, standardized processes, and ongoing commitment to sustainability, we create an environment conducive to continuous improvement and success.

Moreover, our approach emphasizes low-cost solutions with high visual impact, ensuring that even the smallest details contribute to a workspace that is both efficient and aesthetically pleasing. From proper cleaning tools to presentation display cases, every element is carefully considered to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.

In essence, the integration of 5S methodology at First Source Worldwide is not just about improving our physical workspaces; it’s about fostering a culture of excellence, empowerment, and accountability. By embracing these principles wholeheartedly, we pave the way for sustained success and unparalleled customer satisfaction.

The post Streamlining Success: Implementing the 5S Program Across our Facilities first appeared on First Source Worldwide.

The focus of the Business Systems Internship lies in the optimization of our ERP System Deacom, ensuring Data Integrity, and harnessing innovative tools like macro automation and AI to streamline repetitive tasks.

During her tenure as an intern, Shanticia has seamlessly navigated the domain of Information Technology, acquiring proficiencies in data management, SQL programming, data security, among other valuable skills. In her own words, Shanticia aptly summarizes her experience:

“Working at First Source Worldwide has been a remarkable experience, allowing me to gain real-world experience in my field while also learning content that I would not have learned in a school setting. I have had the opportunity to work on individual and collaborative projects for many different IT topics. I have gained so many new skills that I can apply in the rest of my career, even after college. Working alongside Macy has been inspirational and motivating as my goal for my career is to have a leadership role in the IT field. I was initially hired as a seasonal intern, but towards the end of the program, I was offered to stay on during the school year. I look forward to continuing to grow and learn with First Source Worldwide, as they have supported my goals and provided many learning opportunities.”

Currently in her junior year, Shanticia is enrolled at the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh, majoring in Information Systems with an emphasis on Data Analytics. Her anticipated graduation date is 2025. Shanticia’s contributions have been invaluable to FSW, and her promising future is undeniably bright.

Are you interested in real-world experiences like what Shanticia experienced? See our internship opportunities and contact us!

The post Intern Spotlight – Business Systems Edition first appeared on First Source Worldwide.

In the world of alchemy or modern day chemistry, how many times have you encountered problems ranging from unexpected results in your formulations to securing a supply source and had to spend countless hours, days, weeks or months, piling up costs and jeopardizing your products performance, complicating and compounding the problems only to find yourself coming full circle back to the most simple solution?

Granted there are times when complicated issues require complicated answers, yet if we can step outside that box, we can often find the solution in an easier fashion and sometimes several solutions in that same place. Industry in general as we have all learned has good intentions to address problems that arise, building bigger, ever more complicated & sophisticated systems and platforms to make getting the solutions easier, yet that system in itself becomes a monumental endeavor and the answers customers seek to their problem has now manifest itself 1,000 fold, combine this with fewer options via mergers and acquisitions in supply chains, this is where the law of parsimony can be very useful.

It is said no one can be everything to everybody but one can be many things to many people, this is an inherent philosophy of First Source Worldwide, LLC. From our four quality control, application and testing laboratories, to our coating and colorant experts and technicians, to our eight manufacturing and distribution facilities, many answers can be found in one place:

• Water and solvent borne resin products & technical coatings.
• Organic and inorganic pigment powders and dispersions.
• Powder and liquid dye colorants for numerous platforms.
• Performance additives.
• Specialty chemistries.
• Fillers and extenders.
• Specialty packaging.
• Custom and spectrophotometer color matching.

An ISO 9001:2015 company, First Source Worldwide is big enough to handle the important conversations yet flexible enough to serve the clients needs, do you have an Occam’s Razor?

The post Occam’s Razor & Chemistry first appeared on First Source Worldwide.

First Source Worldwide and Subsidiaries have signed an agreement to be the exclusive distribution partner for North, Central, and Latin America with Endo Enterprises of the UK for Endo’s Endosan Silver Stabilized Hydrogen Peroxide product line.  

EndoSan is a solution of Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂) which is stabilized using a proprietary ionic silvery based chemistry. 

EndoSan is a powerful, highly effective, broad spectrum disinfectant that is both stable and safe. 

When correctly applied to water, air or any surface EndoSan will disinfect through an oxidation process and continue to safely provide unrivalled residual performance. 

Areas of Application 

• Legionella Control 
• Commercial Livestock 
• Horticulture 

• Maritime and Shipping 
• Food and Beverage 
• Healthcare 
• Sports and Leisure 

Key Benefits 

• Highly effective biofilm remover. 
• Conforms to EN13623 and EN13626. 
• Unrivalled stability. 
• Forms no harmful by-products. 
• pH neutral when dosed. 

• Proven efficacy & globally approved. 
• Effective between 0°C and 95°C. 
• Odour, colour and taste free. 
• Three-year shelf-life. 
• NSF ANSI/CAN 60 Certified 

• DEFRA Approved Disinfectant 

Product Use 

Water Treatment 

EndoSan is a highly effective water treatment solution which is a truly credible alternative to traditional chlorine disinfection methods. It will totally remove biofilms whilst being non-corrosive at dose rates. Maintaining its efficacy at a wide range of temperatures and pH values, EndoSan is odourless, colourless and tasteless, lending itself to many applications in the field of water treatment. 

Fogging 

Fogging EndoSan (H2O2) provides a highly effective solution for disinfecting entire rooms with minimal downtime. Ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging devices can be used to generate a dry mist of tiny EndoSan droplets that can combat airborne pathogens as well as settling on and disinfecting every surface in a room (including the underside). 

Electrostatic Fogging Disinfection 

Fogging is the process of using large volumes of air at low pressure to transform liquids into tiny droplets that are dispersed into the atmosphere. These Ultra Low Volume (ULV) droplets are perfect for the application of a disinfectant like EndoSan. 

Electrostatic fogging gives the EndoSan droplets a positive electrical charge when they pass an electrode positioned at the nozzle of the device*. 

Electrostatically charged droplets repel each other giving better dispersion of the EndoSan solution. They make strong and quick contact with surfaces providing consistent coverage. These benefits improve optimal disinfection economy and fast turnaround of disinfected spaces. 

Over the coming weeks and months, we will do a deep dive into specific applications to demonstrate the true value of the increased efficacy of Endosan in comparison to standard Hydrogen Peroxide and other incumbent chemistries in common applications.  

Sources 

The post Endo Enterprises Exclusive Distribution Partner first appeared on First Source Worldwide.

The Triplex® Technology advantage:

• Triple Seam– At the heart of Triplex® is a stronger top and bottom seam. This seam is created by adding two additional wraps of steel to form a triple seam with a total of 7 complete layers of steel versus 5 layers.
• Compound Curl- The Triplex® pail design offers a unique compound top curl on an open-head pail. The curl is the potential failure point of any steel pail. A compound curl allows a much better crimp when using the CSC Hi-Performance UN lug cover. This combination has been fully approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation and delivers consistent UN performance.
• Weld Seam- The Triplex design features an improved weld seam. By using a new computer-controlled feedback loop welder, the seam is smoother and stronger. This enhances the exterior appearance. A cleaner weld also reduces the possibility of sharp burrs or feathers that may be dangerous or that might interfere with the integrity of the interior lining.
• Body Profile- The improved body profile of the Triplex open-head pail design allows for increased labeling area. This is extremely helpful when complying with all of the government regulations, directions for use and warning statements that are now required to be included on your labeled pails. The added room permits a larger label to properly fit on the pail body without wrinkling or tearing.

Choose from both open head nested, straight sided or closed head pails using Triplex® technology:

• Open Head Pail-Nested –Tapered body design allows pails to be nested to maximize storage space and freight costs. This is the most versatile and durable design for a wide range of products as well as the most cost-effective design depending on configuration. Open head pails offer three different cover options and will hold a variety of products including hazardous materials. Strong wire bail handle with grip allows for ease of handling and pouring. All open head pails are made with Triplex® technology which allows for the highest valid UN rating available.
• Open Head Pail-Straight Sided– Straight body design which is Ideal for products that require a follower plate for dispensing products such as adhesives, lubricants and greases. Three different cover options are available and these pails feature a strong wire bail handle with grip allowing for ease of handling and pouring. Open head pails offer a stackable design using Triplex® technology along with a compound curl allowing for a high UN rating.
• Closed Head Pail-Tighthead-Non-removable top ideal for products that need a higher UN rating. A variety of fittings are available for dispensing. The closed head pail boasts the highest UN rating available of any pail design and is approved for air shipments. This stackable design features a galvanized steel handle and offers Triplex® technology throughout the top and bottom seams.

Commerce Industrial Chemicals offers a full array of products for your packaging needs. All steel pails are designed in accordance with ANSI standards. Gallon sizes range from 2.5 gallons to 7.5 gallons. A full range of UN-rated pails is available to meet the hazardous materials transportation requirements of each customer’s filled package.

The post Discover Triplex Technology from Cleveland Steel Container first appeared on First Source Worldwide.