The Utah company makes a variety of protective coatings through a molecule-by- molecule process called nanotechnology. But it was the coverings and lubricants made for NASCAR engines that largely drove a decision to open a plant in Whitsett, N.C., a Raleigh suburb, in October.
High Performance Coatings CEO Paul Clayson confirmed Thursday that his company will create more than 200 jobs through a $3.5 million investment over the next three years in a 55,000-square-foot facility in Whitsett.
"North Carolina is rich with manufacturing and distribution facilities for all of these industries and their proximity to many of our key customers is perfect," Clayson said. "In addition, the state's focus on nanotech development will help create the critical partnerships we need for future product enhancement."
While the company's nanotechnology formulas have applications in many industries besides NASCAR, it chose North Carolina primarily for its proximity to professional racing teams and parts suppliers for the automotive and diesel truck industries.
Once the new plant is on line, HPC's work force will double to about 400 companywide. Initially, the North Carolina plant will hire 60 workers, a number that will triple as more facilities become operational, Clayson said.
In addition to Bluffdale, where about 100 are employed, HPC has another 100 workers in Oklahoma City and Chandler, Ariz.
Racing teams value HPC products for their ability to extend engine life and performance through heat reduction and tough, longer-lasting lubricants. "Our thermal barrier coatings go on engine headers and exhaust systems to keep ambient temperatures under the hood lower. If it's cooler, there's more dense air and that increases engine performance," Clayton said.
Living by the motto, "If you ain't first, you're last," Ricky Bobby would love those features.
HPC coatings also reduce heat by lessening friction in a race car's hard-working pistons and internal parts. The company also is developing an exterior car body coating that would reflect heat better than current paint compounds.
Those are things real NASCAR drivers and their teams can appreciate. But Clayton admits it might be impossible to explain all that to the fictional Ricky Bobby.
"I imagine Ricky Bobby would probably just drink the stuff," Clayton, a fan of the movie, said with a chuckle.
bims@sltrib.com
High Performance Coatings Inc.
* The Bluffdale company makes protective coatings that guard against heat and friction. It was founded in 1982.
* Advanced coverings are manufactured through nanotechnology, a patented molecule-by-molecule process with applications in car racing and aerospace, trucking, petroleum and natural gas industries.
* The new plant opens in October in Whitsett, N.C., and eventually will employ 200, doubling HPC's companywide work force.
