Supply Chain Efficiency and a Precision Partnership

The Challenge

Time, labor, and inefficiency.

Eljen Corporation, a leader in onsite wastewater treatment systems, faced a persistent production challenge with the metal hoops used in its Geotextile Sand Filter (GSF) system. Lightweight and compact, the GSF system offers a reliable alternative to traditional septic leach fields. Integral to each unit are metal hoops that secure the distribution pipe, which allows the effluent to flow through the system.

For years, Eljen received pre-cut wire from a supplier in the southwest. However, the supplier was unable to provide the angled end cuts or the bent shape required for the final product. This left Eljen with the burden of completing the remaining process manually in-house.

Eljen developed an innovative solution, but the process remained slow and labor-intensive. Two employees, balancing other responsibilities, managed the cutting and bending operations in between primary duties. Output was limited to just 500-1,000 hoops per day, and the setup was prone to scrap and inefficiencies. As demand for the GSF system grew, Eljen required more than a workaround. They needed a manufacturing partner that could deliver a complete product and scalable solution.

The Solution

A lean, scalable system built for quality, consistency, and growth.

Eljen connected with Novo Precision through a manufacturing event hosted by the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing, which facilitates supplier partnerships through its CONNEX Marketplace. Novo Precision’s team quickly identified areas where they could assist Eljen in addressing their manufacturing and supply chain challenges.

Novo Precision designed a custom engineered system that consolidates every step of Eljen’s hoop production into a single, seamless, integrated process. Starting with wire fed from a reel, the system first straightens the material to eliminate coil memory. It then advances to a precision cutter that trims both ends at a 45-degree angle. The angled edge ensures easy installation in the field.

Next, the wire is bent to the exact radius needed to secure the pipe. Once formed, each hoop glides down a rail and is grouped into bundles of 50. Watch the video of the process here.

With this fully integrated solution, Novo now supplies Eljen with 25,000 to 30,000 finished hoops per month, pre-packaged and ready to ship from Eljen. The streamlined process has freed Eljen’s team to focus on their core operations and fulfill growing demand across the United States, Canada, and Australia.

The Result

Eljen gained more than just a supplier-they gained a manufacturing partner with:

• Precision-Engineered Solutions
  Decades of experience in designing custom machines have eliminated the need for manual cutting and bending, thereby increasing operator safety and productivity.
• Scalable Production for Growth
  From 500 to 1,000 hoops per day to 30,000 per month, Novo Precision’s system meets Eljen’s growing demand.
• Labor Optimization
  By eliminating manual burdens, Eljen’s employees can now focus on their core responsibilities instead of secondary fabrication tasks.
• Waste Reduction
  In-line machining minimizes scrap and ensures uniformity throughout the process.
• Supply Chain Optimization
  Production consolidated into a single, trusted source provides consistency and reliability.
• Operator Safety
  By automating the process, Eljen has improved workplace safety for its associates.

From Problem to Partnership

Novo Precision didn’t just solve a manufacturing challenge-they reimagined the process. Eljen now benefits from a reliable, high-volume supply of precision hoops that arrive ready to ship. The partnership demonstrates how innovative engineering and local collaboration can transform traditional workflows into efficient, high-performance operations.

“Partnering with Novo Precision allowed us to eliminate a longstanding production bottleneck. Their engineered solution enabled us to eliminate inefficiencies, streamline operations, and scale production to meet rising market demand.” – Melissa Sanchez, Marketing Manager, Eljen Corporation         

About Eljen Corporation

Eljen Corporation is a Veteran-owned company based in Windsor, Connecticut. They are a pioneering manufacturer in the onsite wastewater treatment industry, known for its commitment to environmental protection and public health. Their philosophy is to advance the onsite industry through the continuous development of innovative new products, delivering high-quality products and services at the best price, and building lasting partnerships with employees, suppliers, and customers.