Devoted to fulfilling the need for PPE among the medical field, Gilman Gear has re-purposed one of their facilities to make surgical and isolation gowns. Over the span of two weeks, the Gilman team designed, manufactured, and began supply of surgical and isolation gowns for the Yale New Haven Hospital.

Gilman Gear has been domestically sourcing raw materials for the past 91 years to produce sporting equipment. During the pandemic, the company is proud to be using their logistics network, skilled labor force, and machinery to assist in keeping supply and fabrication of PPE in America.

“The Eastman cutting machine is our workhorse to cut all gowns,” said Gilman Gear President, Neil Gilman.

The sporting equipment manufacturer uses an Eagle C125 conveyor system to aid in its production. The automated machine continuously conveys multiple layers of material with consistent speed and control, while exceeding industry standards for accuracy. The C125 boasts supreme capabilities for single- to low-ply cutting requirements at up to 60 in. (1.52 m) per second and has proven itself as the go-to cutting solution for various industries. Gilman mentioned how substantial the productivity gains are with the automated Eastman conveyor system. “It cuts 280 gowns per hour and over 12,000 yards of material per week.”

To keep up with the demand, Gilman hired 12 new sewing machine operators and the whole team is working six, 10-hour days a week. “We are also committed to keeping our employees working and on the job during these tough times.”

Much like Gilman Gear, Eastman Machine Company is a family business and has been innovating for over 130 years. Robert Stevenson, fourth-generation owner of Eastman Machine, applauded Gilman’s earnest efforts. “The key to success is to be adaptive and to respond quickly to crisis,” said Stevenson. “Gilman Gear is a prime example of such success.”

Hundreds of cutting solutions are proudly designed and manufactured at Eastman Machine Company’s headquarters in Buffalo, New York. Complimentary test cut evaluations to capture the machine’s speed and recommended configuration are available by contacting the Eastman headquarters at +1-716-856-2200.