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Petrolab
Fast facts
- Formed in 1991 and based in Redruth to undertake testing of ‘Mundic’ concrete used in local construction
- Company now specialising in mineral investigation and analysis
- Won Plymouth University and Western Morning News Growth Fund award (PWGF – part of the GAIN network)
- Invested into high-tech equipment to improve efficiency and reduce the need for outsourcing
Background
Petrolab was created in 1991 by Dr Alan Bromley primarily to undertake a new form of testing ‘mundic’ concrete, which had the potential to cause structural problems in housing across Cornwall and parts of Devon.
When Co-director John Fletcher joined in 2007, the company began to expand its mineral investigation business, supporting feasibility studies for mining projects to confirm the existence of minerals such as copper, zinc or gold etc.
GAIN – the benefits
Mineral samples from prospective mines have to be made into ultra-thin slides, so that light can be shone through the sample and the minerals identified. This process was outsourced by Petrolab, which was costly and time consuming.
Petrolab won a PWGF award for just over £35,600 to purchase the necessary technology to produce the sample slides in-house.
John Fletcher said: “Having to outsource this essential part of the process meant that it took longer to complete jobs and we had no certainty over the timing”.
“With the equipment purchased via the PWGF award we will able to increase our workload and improve turn-a-round for our clients. We will also be in a position to take on external 3rd party work, opening up a new revenue stream through the offering of this commercial service.”
The PWGF award will enable Petrolab to increase capacity, develop the company through the creation of new jobs and expand its client base within the UK and internationally.
Results and the future
- Created two new jobs
- Increased efficiency and productivity
- Cut time and costs
- Created new commercial service
- Expanding into new global markets and 3rd party outsourcing
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