GE’s new production line will use robotics and other advanced manufacturing techniques to produce a redesigned platform of extra-large capacity dishwashers.
By Alan Wolf, YSN
GE Appliances has committed $80 million to building a new dishwasher manufacturing line at its sprawling Appliance Park production facilities in Louisville, Ky.
The new line will produce a completely redesigned, extra-large capacity dishwasher platform featuring an updated appearance, electronic controls and true flush installation, which also appeals to builders and property managers, the company said.
In designing the production line, engineering and manufacturing teams worked on actual assembly lines to determine how the production process could be made easier for GE’s factory workers. As a result, the new line will employ robotic and other advanced manufacturing equipment to “eliminate difficult jobs, improve ergonomics and enhance the manufacturing environment,” GE said, resulting in improved manufacturability and a high-quality product designed with consumers in mind.
“We’re on a mission to become the leading appliance company in the United States, and our $80 million investment to add a new dishwasher line at Appliance Park is our latest leap forward on that journey,” said Cinthy Fanning, GEA’s VP for dishwasher products. “At a time when our research has shown families are using their dishwashers more than ever, we’re excited to expand our product offerings — and our U.S. manufacturing capabilities — to give consumers access to more of the appliances they want and need.”
The $80 million commitment follows a $19 million outlay, announced in June, to expand the company’s dishwasher production to meet rising demand. Over the last two years GE has enhanced its U.S. manufacturing footprint by investing over $740 million at its nine domestic factories and adding more than 2,000 employees to serve its customers faster and better, the vendor said.
