Prior to making a change, the company ran a series of long-term tests with Kremlin A-28 automatic spray guns, from Kremlin Inc. (West Chicago, IL, U.S.). The guns, for use with solvent-free coatings, have stainless steel fluid passages and a patented diaphragm. These reportedly contribute to the guns having four-times more life than other guns.

During the tests, says Heath M. Hale, lead kiln supervisor, "We realized this gun has the spray pattern that we desired, and very low maintenance." Better yet, he adds, adapting the new guns to the A.B.M. simply involved using some different mounting brackets.

The guns were added in February 2002. "The system itself has not changed, but our ability to cover our product in a more consistent manner has increased considerably," observes Mr. Hale. "Quality has always been a number one priority for us. I would venture to say that the new gun has allowed us to make a high-quality piece of vitreous china, with very little maintenance to our new guns, and with a very large long-term cost savings."