In Spanaway, Washington, adaptability is the driving force behind Rainier Veneer’s success. Known for its peel-to-order model and customer-first philosophy, Rainier Veneer has built a strong reputation for precision and responsiveness. The recent upgrade to its lathe line, in collaboration with USNR, further strengthens this reputation, allowing the plant to produce custom veneer orders with even greater efficiency.

“We don’t peel ahead,” says Steve Shriver, Plant Manager at Rainier Veneer. “Every order is customized, and we adjust production every two and a half hours. That flexibility is what sets us apart.”

Rainier Veneer’s Spanaway plant serves a diverse range of markets, from Canada to Central Oregon, providing both softwood and hardwood plywood. The plant’s ability to quickly adjust production to meet customer needs has made it a trusted partner in the veneer industry. The upgrades to the lathe line further bolster this adaptability, ensuring that every order meets the exact specifications of clients, even when last-minute changes are required.

From Patchwork to High-Performance Lathe Line

Before the upgrade, Rainier’s lathe setup consisted of a mix of salvaged and retrofitted equipment. Operators worked tirelessly to keep production moving, often relying on ingenuity to overcome mechanical challenges. While the team managed to maintain production, the equipment’s limitations hindered efficiency.
 

That all changed with the installation of USNR’s Model 790 Charger system. This major upgrade included several key components:
Block Step Feeder: The new feeder unscrambles and geometrically centers the veneer blocks before feeding them into the lathe charger. With a 7-step, single-acting design and a 29” stroke, the system ensures consistent block presentation and flow.

Model 790 Charger with BlockLogix Optimization: The upgraded system integrates block rotation, scanning, and positioning using four GigE 3D laser sensors. This allows the system to capture up to 500,000 measurement points per block, optimizing alignment and maximizing recovery. A precision pendulum then delivers each block to the lathe spindles with pinpoint accuracy.

Lathe Control System: The new control system, featuring Allen Bradley ControlLogix® PLCs and touchscreen HMIs, improves operator visibility and streamlines control and diagnostics. This system interfaces with all major lathe components, enabling faster issue resolution and reducing downtime.

Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU): The HPU, with a 2,000-gallon reservoir and pressure-compensated pumps, ensures consistent hydraulic performance across the lathe line. Dual-stage vane-style recirculation pumps deliver 90 GPM each, supporting smooth operations even under heavy use.

The difference was immediate,” says David Fields, Plant Superintendent. “The new system is intuitive, easier to maintain, and far more reliable. We’re diagnosing issues faster and reducing downtime.”

Operator Ownership Drives Excellence

At Rainier Veneer, operator ownership plays a crucial role in maintaining high standards of performance. Lathe operators are responsible for performing their own maintenance, which gives them a deeper understanding of the equipment and allows them to identify issues early. This hands-on approach not only keeps machines running smoothly but also fosters a sense of pride among the team.

“We don’t have a dedicated greaser,” Fields explains. “Operators handle it themselves. It builds pride and keeps the machines running smoothly.”

The company’s culture of operator ownership has proven effective in both training and promoting from within. Employees with diverse skill sets are stepping confidently into operator roles, supported by user-friendly systems and strong mentorship. This approach has resulted in a more versatile workforce, capable of adapting to changing operating conditions and contributing to the plant’s overall success.

A Strong Partnership with USNR

Rainier’s relationship with USNR dates back decades, and the recent lathe line upgrade was a collaborative effort between the two companies. The project was completed on schedule, thanks to the involvement of Rainier staff, contractors, and the USNR team.

“We had ownership from day one,” Shriver says. “USNR listened, adapted, and delivered. Their support has been outstanding.”

This ongoing partnership is a testament to the value of collaboration and mutual trust. It’s through this long-standing relationship that Rainier has been able to continue evolving its operations, ensuring that it remains a leader in the veneer industry.

Looking to the Future

With the 8-foot lathe line now optimized, Rainier Veneer is focusing on further improvements across the entire plant. The goal is to bring all operations up to the same level of performance and consistency.

“We’re simplifying processes and improving consistency,” says Shriver. “It’s about staying ahead of market demands and building long-term resilience.”

By continuing to invest in cutting-edge technology and nurturing a skilled, adaptable workforce, Rainier Veneer is positioning itself for ongoing success in the ever-evolving veneer industry.
 
Source:  woodandpanel.us