The Company
The Problem
The Solution
Since both companies are located in the Wichita, Kansas area, Bill and Chris were familiar with Hornet Cutting Systems, and had seen Hornet products at several trade shows. “It’s a benefit to have them local,” Bill says.
In February 2020, ESi purchased a Hornet HD 5’x12’ plasma cutting machine. Bill was pleased with how quickly ESi was able to get the Hornet machine fully operational. “Quite frankly, it hit the ground running,” he says. “By day 2, we were cutting finished parts.”
The Benefits
Purchasing the Hornet HD has given ESi control of their quality and their delivery. Thanks to the new machine, 95% of the projects they formerly had to hire out have now been brought back in-house. “We can go from design to finished product much faster than before,” Bill tells us. That leads to quicker turnaround times, happier customers, and a boost to ESi’s bottom line.
In addition, the Hornet machine improves ESi’s flexibility. “In the past, our installers would have to modify a part in the field,” Bill explains. “But now they can make those parts on-site at the shop, so our customers get a first-order part, rather than a modified one.” ESi is also able to cut a part and try it when designing other products, leading to all-around improvements in efficiency and productivity.
ESi is thrilled with their purchase and their partnership with Hornet Cutting Systems. “Hornet’s done a really good job,” Bill says. “We’re very happy with the machine and very happy with the service. It’s been a good experience.”
