SilcoTek Coating Blog

Reflecting on a Year of Innovation and Growth at SilcoTek in 2024

Written by Kayla DeSoto | December 20 2024

SilcoTek accomplished quite a lot this year! As we approach the end of 2024, we’re taking a moment to reflect on a year full of innovation, collaboration, and growth here at SilcoTek. From expanding our coating technologies and services to making a difference in our community, we’re grateful for the milestones achieved and the relationships strengthened over the past twelve months. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights that defined our year:

 

Expanding Coating Solutions

This year marked significant advancements in our coating technologies. We introduced citric acid passivation and cleanroom services, which has opened doors to many of the industries we serve. Our passivation service follows ASTM A967 standards to offer even better corrosion resistance. ISO 6 Class 1000 cleanroom services include post-coating precision rinsing, drying, helium leak check, vacuum packaging, and custom labeling. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re proud to see these solutions making an impact.

In 2024, we launched a new campaign aimed at replacing PFAS materials, known as "forever chemicals," that plague several of the industries we support. As those of you in these fields know, the regulations surrounding these materials are becoming more stringent, which has everyone looking for a different solution. By replacing PFAS with SilcoTek coatings, together, we are creating an environmentally-friendly solution. 

We've seen several new life sciences applications emerge this year. From bioprocessing equipment to pharmaceutical applications, SilcoTek has grown stronger in this market this year. We saw continued success and adoption of Dursan and Siltride coatings this year in HPLC applications. Several of our partners launched new inert hardware lines, promoting reduced metal ion interactions, improved sensitivity and reliability, and extended component lifespan. We've also made process improvements at SilcoTek to allow for expanded narrow-bore instrumentation capabilities with Dursan to increasingly service the HPLC industry. We hope to see increased acceptance in this industry moving forward. 

There has been steady growth in our other core industries as well. We continue to serve the semiconductor, analytical and energy sectors as a game-changing solution to meet their needs. 

In addition, we’ve continued to enhance our existing portfolio, ensuring our coatings remain at the forefront of innovation. From corrosion resistance to eco-friendly options, our team is committed to providing the best solutions for our customers.

We frequently work with customers to find a custom solution to their applications if one of our "out-of-the-box" coating solutions doesn't quite fit the bill. Please reach out to our very knowledgeable staff to learn more about our coatings. 

 

 

Strengthening Customer Connections

We also participated in key industry trade shows, where we had the opportunity to showcase our products and connect with industry leaders. Our sales, marketing, and quotes teams traveled the globe to attend shows, participate in technical talks, provide in-person training, and meet with current and new customers. 

Pittcon 2024: SilcoTek's Dr. Jesse Bischof, Luke Patterson, Ashley Barlett, and Patrick Dick pose with Pete Con, the Pittcon mascot.

This year, we gained several new team members, bringing our head count up to 67! We're so proud of the hard-working team we've built here at SilcoTek. 

We also added another international representative to our roster this year, SilcoTek GK, based in Tokyo, Japan. In addition to our main office located in central Pennsylvania, USA, we now have 7 international sales representatives. With the help of our international representatives, we're able to provide Plus1 service to customers near and far. 

 

Sustainability and Community Impact

Sustainability continues to be a guiding principle for SilcoTek. With improvements on our processes, the introduction of the eco-friendly citric acid passivation line, and PFAS replacement initiatives, SilcoTek continues to keep environmental safety at the forefront of our processes.

On the community front, we’re proud to have supported several local initiatives. Whether through volunteering, donations, or partnerships, our team has embraced opportunities to give back and make a difference.

 

Clean up crew: Mark E, Steve, Dan, Mark R, Casie, and Luke helped to clean up SilcoTek's nearby adopted road! 

 

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we set our sights on the new year, we’re excited about what lies ahead. Plans for 2025 include collaboration with our customers and partners, research and development of new products and services, and continued process improvements to make ordering with SilcoTek as pain-free as possible.

On the horizon, we are looking forward to the launch of 2 new game-changing coatings and a "big" capability enhancement! More details will be shared as we prepare to unveil these exciting new products and services in 2025! As always, we are committed to fostering innovation, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to serve our customers with the Plus1 customer service you have come to expect from SilcoTek. 

 

Thank You

None of this would be possible without the dedication of our team, the trust of our customers, and the support of our partners. Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to an even brighter 2025!

 

 

What were your highlights of 2024? Share your experiences and connect with us!