How a PCL Coupling is made: A journey from precision machining to quality assurance
At PCL, we take pride in every coupling we produce, ensuring it meets the highest standards of quality and performance. From the initial machining of components to the final testing before shipment, every step is carefully crafted in our factory in Sheffield, UK. In this post, we’ll take you through the process of how a PCL coupling is made - from the machine shop to your hands.
Step 1: Machining the components
The journey begins in our state-of-the-art machine shop, right here in Sheffield. Each component of the coupling is carefully machined to the highest standards. Our skilled machinists use precision equipment to create the essential parts of each coupling. This attention to detail ensures that every component is made to fit perfectly and function reliably.
Step 2: Roll marking the coupling body
Once machined, the coupling body is roll marked to ensure authenticity and indicate its manufacture date. Introduced in 2020, this marking also supports our 5-year warranty, offering customers confidence in product quality. Read more on how to read a marking on a PCL Coupling here.
Step 3: Quality checks for precision
Before the components proceed to the assembly line, they undergo a rigorous quality control process to ensure that each part meets our high standards. Every component is carefully inspected for any defects or irregularities. This step is vital to ensure that only the highest-quality parts make it to the next stage of production.
Step 4: Hand assembled
Once the components have passed our strict quality checks, they are moved to the assembly line. Here, our highly skilled assemblers step in. The assembly of a PCL coupling is a delicate process - each coupling features up to 14 small components that must be precisely put together by hand.
It’s not as easy as it looks! To demonstrate the intricacy required, we’ve set up a “Build a Coupling Challenge,” where we challenge our team and visitors to assemble a coupling as quickly and accurately as possible. Watch as our colleagues take on the challenge and showcase why we leave this task to our experts assemblers who can do it in 20 seconds.
Step 5: Testing each Coupling individually
Once assembled, each coupling is individually tested, making sure that it meets all performance standards before it moves to the final stage. This testing process is part of our commitment to providing products that our customers can trust.
Step 6: Storing and shipping worldwide
Once each coupling has been tested and passed, it’s carefully stored in our warehouse, ready to be shipped to our distributors around the globe.
Experience it for yourself
Interested in seeing how a PCL coupling is made? We invite our customers to visit our factory and experience the process firsthand. Speak to your Sales Manager to arrange a visit, and try assembling a coupling for yourself. We’re confident that after seeing the process in action, you’ll have an even greater appreciation for the quality and precision that goes into every PCL coupling.
Watch the video
