Quality Issues Slowing Growth 

Rudco, a New Jersey-based manufacturer of waste handling equipment, depends on coatings that do more than protect – they represent their customers’ brands in the field. 

But inconsistent performance was slowing them down, creating rework, delaying production and limiting their ability to scale.  

Challenges included:  

• Inconsistent coating quality 
• Long dry and recoat times (24-48 hours) delaying shipment 
• Frequent defects including drips, runs, pinholing and dry spray
• High rework rates, with up to 10-20% of certain colors needing correction
• Limited production capacity, restricting growth 

Simpler Application, Smarter Chemistry 

Sherwin-Williams took a discovery-led approach, working to understand Rudco’s processes, challenges and goals before delivering a tailored solution. 

What changed: 

• Introduced a more user-friendly alkyd coating optimized for application consistency
• Streamlined custom color lead times to 1-2 days with FastTrack
• Provided hands-on training to standardize application processes
• Delivered ongoing technical support to ensure long-term success 

Faster Throughput, & Higher Confidence 

The impact was immediate – and measurable. 

• Recoat time reduced by up to 90% (from 24-48 hours to ~4 hours)
• Next-day shipping enabled with overnight dry times 
• Production increased ~33% (from ~30 to 40 units per week)
• Rework reduced by up to 50%, with defects nearly eliminated 
• $190,000 in annual cost savings from reduced downtime and rework 
• 2+ days saved in pack-and ship timelines 
• Faster custom job turnaround, unlocking new revenue opportunities