United Performance Metals

We're All That...

2012-02-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

Now a NADCAP/GE approved source for laser cutting!

United Performance Metals is working hard to be 'all that' for you, our valued customer. In addition to our comprehensive inventory of stainless and high temperature alloys, we also have comprehensive processing capabilities including slitting, leveling, edging, shearing, and laser cutting.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

Father and Daughter Make Racing Their Passion

2012-02-03T09:23:00.000-08:00

Racing is an addictively fun hobby. Just ask Scott Fasse, Vice President of Marketing for United Performance Metals. Scott championed the inaugural winter racing league at Full Throttle, an indoor karting track in Fairfield, Ohio.

Full Throttle Indoor Karting was created by avid motorsports enthusiasts as a fun, competitive, and safe place to race. Scott took full advantage of the facilities as he participated in a ten-week adult league and took home the trophy for 1st place!

Racing at Full Throttle was appealing not only on a competitive level, but it also satisfied to his desire to have a place to drive during the cold winter months. “Full Throttle has a very well-thought out course” said Fasse. With 14 turns over a quarter mile track, “It really made me think about the mechanics of driving.” Racing there reminded him of his younger days when he started out road racing go karts at age 12.

Although the race track is typically male-dominated, one female racer has emerged in the junior league. She just happens to be Scott’s daughter, Samantha Fasse, age 15. Samantha finished third in her league. She’s not intimidated by being the only girl on the track. “It’s competitive and fun” she says.

When asked if he sees a future racer in Samantha, Fasse expressed fatherly concern, “It’s nice to have something we like to do together, and I’m proud of her success, but I’ll be too nervous if she continues racing more seriously!” For the rest of us race fans, we’ll just have to wait and see what the future brings for this father-daughter karting duo.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

Still Hunting with Roger Haire

2012-01-26T12:43:00.001-08:00

United Performance Metals Plant Manager, Roger Haire, has enjoyed the sport of hunting since he was 14 years old. “Hunting takes me away from my everyday lifestyle.” He affectionately states “It’s a unique opportunity to gain an understanding of wildlife personalities.”

With more than a few trails under his belt, Roger reminisces about his most recent trip; a western-style hunt in November which involved riding horses in the Big Horn Mountain Region of Wyoming. Despite the bitter evening temperatures “I stayed in a wall tent, roughing it with Mother Nature.” It was in Unit 45 that he connected with an elk; a satisfying end to his journey.

A boyhood friend first peaked Roger’s interest in hunting. Today he enjoys both bow and rifle expeditions across the country. Through Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Montana, New Mexico, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wyoming, Roger has enjoyed taking in the unique beauty of what each state has to offer.

Roger’s family is very supportive of this pastime. His son Dustin, age 20, plans to join his father next winter as the two journey to Big Sky Country, searching for mule deer along the Powder River that runs between Montana and Wyoming.

When asked what his ideal trip would be, Roger answered “Alaska!” The moose, caribou and bears in the region had better be ready for him!

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

United Performance Metals Has Been Granted a Special Process Certification for Laser Machining/Cutting

2012-01-20T07:33:00.000-08:00

Hamilton, Ohio - January 19th, 2012 – United Performance Metals was recently audited and approved to perform laser machining/cutting for General Electric and its sub-tier providers. As a result of the audit, United Performance Metals was awarded a GE Transportation Aviation Special Process Certification for Laser Machining/Cutting (EE02, S-422).

Darryl Staton, Director of Quality Assurance, commented “While the certification is important to our customers, we welcomed the audit as an opportunity to confirm that our processes and procedures support the highest level of quality.”

About United Performance Metals
With a history that dates back to 1982, United Performance Metals has experience servicing an international base of customers in diverse industries including aerospace, automotive, power generation, oil and gas, medical and many others. United Performance Metals is part of the O’Neal High Performance Metals Group (O’Neal HPMG). For more information on United Performance Metals, call us at 1.888.282.3292 or email sales@upmet.com.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

Maintain, Don't Gain: Results

2012-01-17T06:49:00.000-08:00

The results are in: Of the 31 UPM participants in TriHealth’s ‘Maintain, Don’t Gain’ program, 68% or 21 people either maintained or lost weight. Way to Go! Trish Fisher lead the pack with 5.28% lost. What a great way for UPM to begin the New Year!

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

UPM Employees Avoid the Holiday Bulge

2012-01-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

Did you know the average person gains 5-7 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day? The ‘Maintain, Don’t Gain’ program presented by TriHealth will remind UPM employees of healthy behaviors, making it more likely for them to maintain or lose weight over the holidays.

“TriHealth is continually impressed with the involvement and excitement surrounding wellness from UPM employees. ‘Maintain, Don’t Gain is’ a great program to help end the year healthy and get started on the right foot in 2012. We have 31 employees participating and starting the New Year on a healthy note!” said Erin Pauley, Wellness Coordinator.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

Horses Are Part of the Miranda Family

2012-01-16T08:15:00.000-08:00

It all started with not knowing what to get someone for a birthday present. Doesn’t that always seem to be a problem?

Shannon Miranda, a part-time Marketing Intern at United Performance Metals, and daughter of Ray Miranda, UPM’s Nickel and Specialty Product Manager, didn’t know what to get her younger sister, Natalie, for her birthday. Diverting to the gift-card option seemed to be her best bet, but she wanted it to be something different—not just your normal shopping trip to someone’s favorite store in the mall.

Shannon decided to buy Natalie a gift certificate to take riding lessons at Winton Woods. She had no idea what a long-term impact this gift would bring. Four years later, Ray and Natalie have two horses, Babe and Dakota. The horses are treated like family: fed and groomed every day, talked to, hugged, and given presents on Christmas. (They even have their own Facebook pages under Babey Miranda and Dakota Miranda.)

"Having horses isn't like having any other pets; they are like family,” says Natalie. “My horse, Dakota, is the love of my life. He has taught me things beyond my imagination, and I dream about the amazing experiences to come with him."

Her father, Ray agrees. “They are beautiful animals who are very loyal, faithful, and smart. “

Natalie is currently taking riding lesson from Brooke Vaughn, a rodeo barrel racer. Natalie one day hopes to follow in Brooke’s footsteps and barrel race with Dakota.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

Ready to Spin!

2012-01-13T11:45:00.000-08:00

Save time and money with stainless, nickel and cobalt alloy blanks delivered to your exact starting dimensions.

United Performance Metals' comprehensive inventory and processing capabilities allow for the delivery of 'near net shapes' so that you can begin adding value as soon as the metal hits your door.

Put us to the test with your next request for stainless, nickel or cobalt alloys. Call 1.888.282.3292 or visit us on the web at www.upmwt.com

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

West Coast Customers: We've Moved More Metal Closer to You

2012-01-12T08:57:00.000-08:00

United Performance Metals recently relocated to a new, expanded facility in La Mirada, Califronia to improve our service by placing the metals you need within close proximity to your business. A larger space and new processing equipment mean not only more metal, but the ability to shear to your exact specifications. We're not stopping there, stay tuned for more news from our west coast facility.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

UPM Welcomes Back Jessica Fox

2012-01-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

It’s a new year here at United Performance Metals, and we are very happy to have a seasoned employee, Jessica Fox, rejoin our team.

“I’m really happy to be back,” Fox expresses. “It is nice to come back into a company and know people…It feels like home.”

Fox worked in the sheet and export segments for Aerospace International Metals (AIM) in 2007-2008 as the company was merging with Ferguson Metals and becoming what is now known as United Performance Metals (UPM).

Now that she is back, Fox will be working as an account manager in the distribution segment.

Outside of work, Fox is a football fan and a devoted Bengals follower. Keeping with another Cincinnati tradition, Fox is training with Bob Roncker’s to run the 2012 Flying Pig Half Marathon in May.

Welcome back, Jessica! We’ll be rooting for you.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

UPM Reaches Goal of $100 Million in Sales

2012-01-10T05:59:00.000-08:00

Just in time to wrap up 2011, United Performance Metals reached a milestone: $100 million in sales!

To Tom Kennard, President of UPM, reaching $100 million was great, but what was learned along the way was equally important. “Achieving $100 million in sales confirms what is possible when you put your mind to something and work together to achieve your goal.”

Vice President, Annette Tiesman points out the personal triumphs involved in this milestone. “Hitting the $100,000,000 mark in this market is a testament to the strength, commitment and focus of our team. Their efforts have allowed us to improve year over year.”

“In order to reach this goal, the company had to work as a team, across each department, contributing to the final end point.” Jeff Liesch, UPM’s Chief Financial Officer, believes this wholeheartedly. “We can’t do what we do without the entire team.”

The New Year begins with a great big ‘Thank You’ to all employees for their outstanding work, and a special dose of gratitude to all of our customers who supported United Performance Metals over the years!

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

Maintain, Don’t Gain 7 Week Challenge

2012-01-05T08:18:00.000-08:00

One New Year’s resolution tends to be the same for many of us – Lose Weight! UPM employees decided to get a jump start on this idea by taking part in the ‘Maintain, Don’t Gain’ challenge. This 7 week program presented by TriHealth focuses on exercise, healthy eating and stress management. Participants try to get 30 minutes of physical activity 3 times each week while incorporating the following nutrition and stress reduction challenges:

• Five-a-day Fruits and Veggies
• Plan Ahead to Avoid Stress
• Consume 25-35 Grams of Fiber Daily
• Simplify Holiday Plans
• Drink at least 64 Oz. Ounces of Water Per Day
• Laugh!
• Eat Less Than 20 Grams of Saturated Fat Daily

Following this program is one way to ring in the New Year with one less resolution.

Best of luck to all United Performance Metals participants!

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

United Performance Metals Earns Non Conventional Machining NADCAP Approval

2012-01-04T09:07:00.001-08:00

The laser cutting facility installed early in 2011 at United Performance Metals was recently audited and certified in accordance with the stringent requirements of the National Aerospace Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP). NADCAP is an accreditation organization that represents major suppliers, prime contractors and government agencies in primarily the aerospace and defense sectors. United Performance Metals accreditation is in accordance with SAE Aerospace Standard AS7003 for non conventional machining using a laser beam.

John Niehaus, United Performance Metals Vice President of Sales commented, “Laser cutting has become an important service for the companies we supply. The ability to deliver near net shapes is a real savings in time and money to our customers.” While a NADCAP approval is a requirement for some of the segments United Performance Metals serves, all of its customers benefit from the attention to detail and quality imposed by the accreditation process.

Spotlight on Sydney: The 2011 Holiday Card Design Contest Winner

2012-01-03T10:35:00.000-08:00

“I made it my goal to take something ordinary and making it feel like the holidays” said Sydney Stricker, 18, of Butler Tech’s D. Russel Lee Career-Technology Center, and winner of United Performance Metals 2011 holiday card contest.

Her holiday card design was the favorite among UPM employees, granting her a $500 prize.

“I need to save for a car, and $500 would be a big boost in my savings account” Sydney explained.

Growing up with a passion for art, Sydney explored a variety of mediums including interior design and fashion design. Once she toured the facilities at Butler Tech in 2009, Sydney felt strongly that she wanted to become a graphic designer.

“Each time I went to the commercial arts lab, I loved it” Sydney said. When the school year is out, she will miss her fellow classmates and her instructor, Dave Geiser. “I’m dreading graduating and leaving the school and the wonderful people I’ve met – students and teachers” she remarked.

After high school, Sydney plans to continue her design education at the School of Advertising Art in Kettering, Ohio.

All of us at United Performance Metals are grateful to Sydney and every commercial design student who participated in our holiday card contest. Best of luck to all of you in 2012!

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

In Full Flight

2011-12-21T06:13:00.000-08:00

Modern Metals Magazine November issue discusses how a "redefined airline industry is universally positive about future growth."

"In Full Flight"
By Lauren Duensing

November 2011- After years of waiting, it’s finally here. On Sept. 26, The Boeing Co., Chicago, celebrated the delivery of the first 787 Dreamliner to All Nippon Airways. The plane aims to redefine the experience of flying with cleaner cabin air, higher humidity, lower cabin altitude, larger windows, electrochromic shades, bigger onboard luggage bins and LED lighting.

In addition to creature comforts, composite materials, advanced aerodynamics and modern engines work together to make the 787 a dream for airlines’ bottom lines.

Competing with composites for these future aircraft designs has caused metals companies to re-engineer products as well as introduce new alloys.

“While the jury is still out on how dramatic the move to composites will be in single-aisle aircraft, the 787 has already impacted the future of aircraft construction in unexpected ways,” says Tom Kennard, president of United Performance Metals, Hamilton, Ohio, a supplier of specialty stainless steel and high-temperature alloys. “One of the storylines has to be the aluminum companies’ response to the threat of composites. A whole new suite of new, lighter weight, stronger aluminum alloys has emerged.”

To read the full story, click here.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

Butler Tech Student Receives Award for Creating UPM's Holiday Card Design

2011-12-19T10:55:00.000-08:00

With the holidays around the corner, UPM congratulated one Butler Tech student for creating the winning design of the company’s holiday card. Sydney Stricker, a senior at Butler Tech’s D. Russel Lee Career-Technology Center, created the design that was placed on the front of the card sent out to customers of UPM.

For six years, UPM has partnered with Butler Tech’s commercial design students for a holiday card design competition. While the students decide what look would be best for the card, UPM employees wait in anticipation to see the various designs and vote on which one is their favorite.

Congratulations to Sydney and thank you to Butler Tech and the rest of the design students that participated in this year’s competition.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

UPM Exhibits at Power-Gen International

2011-12-15T10:05:00.000-08:00

UPM's Jody Seither, Jeremy Pearson, Doyle Carpenter and John Niehaus exhibited at Power-Gen International in Las Vegas this week.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

UPM Employee Finds Her Fish in the Sea

2011-12-15T08:07:00.001-08:00

Dating websites might not work for everyone. However, for United Performance Metals’ Contract Planner, Trish (Harbert) Fisher, a certain dating website, “Plenty Of Fish,” led her in the right direction: to her new husband, Joe.

According to the website, Plenty Of Fish is far and away the largest free online dating service, and is also one of the most popular social communities in the world by number of visitors. It certainly lived up to its reputation for the new couple.

The two were married on November 26 in Lebanon, Ohio, at the Golden Lamb.

“It was a beautiful day,” Trish recalls. “We couldn’t have asked for anything better.”

Trish picked the theme of the wedding to be pink and hearts, which is something that you can also find all over her desk in the office. You can even see Trish strolling around the office in bright pink Ugg boots if you catch her on a casual Friday.

Joe, who works at Austral Engineering in Athens, Ohio, brought his nine-year-old twin daughters, Alli and Sarah, into the mix. To pay homage to the way they all came together, Trish got a tattoo of four fish representing the four members of her new family.

For others, there are plenty of fish, but Trish has landed hers. Congratulations Trish and Joe!

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

The Real Meaning of the Holiday Season

2011-12-13T11:48:00.000-08:00

During this season of giving, employees at United Performance Metals remember that not everyone will have gifts under their tree this Christmas, and they are stepping forward to help. For seven families who have opened their homes to foster children in Butler County, UPM employees will become Santa for a day.

A tree was set up in the cafeteria with a wish list from the foster children in each of these homes. UPM employees purchased exactly what the children wanted, making things a little brighter for them this time of year. The funds foster families receive from the county help cover the costs of basic needs, so receiving extras at Christmas time is very much appreciated. The employees at UPM are happy to help.

“Sharing our blessings even in a small way like this is part of our purpose on earth,” says Jon Markle, Regional Account Manager.

Lisa Collier, Account Manager, knows the true meaning of Christmas isn’t about presents, but this cause is still very important to her.

“I would hate to think of a little child without something to open,” Collier says. “Kids should believe there is a Santa for as long as possible.”

Tracy Graff, UPM’s Shear/CTL Production Planner has spearheaded the holiday program for the past six years.

“It’s a great feeling when I drop the gifts off at Butler County Children’s Services…It really shows the true meaning of Christmas,” Graff says.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

The Ladies of UPM Get in the Holiday Spirit with a Festive Sweater Day

2011-12-13T07:34:00.000-08:00

From left to right: JoAnne Breehne, Shannon Grathwohl, Lisa Collier, Brenda Evans, Diane Johnston, Arlene Nageleisen, Lynne Kent

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

UPM Exhibits at Fabtech Chicago

2011-11-17T12:45:00.000-08:00

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

In Honor of Veterans Day...

2011-11-11T08:16:00.000-08:00

This year, as we recognized the 10th Anniversary of September 11th, it recaptured our attention and reminded us to be thankful for the freedom so many have fought for us to retain. That freedom has come with great sacrifice and is preserved by those who have served, and continue to serve in the United States Military.

This Veteran’s Day, November 11th, please take time to honor those on active, reserve, or guard duty during times of war and peace, and remember our fellow employees currently serving active duty in our Country’s military.

Below is a list of United Performance Metals veterans:

Anthony Barger
Thomas Bauer
Doyle Carpenter
Jim Fatsy
Fernando Gonzales
Steven Reynolds
Troy Roark
David Smith
Ralph Zimmerman

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

UPM Adds Stainless Steel Sculpture to Their Office Decor

2011-11-11T07:07:00.000-08:00

The latest piece of equipment to arrive at United Performance Metals isn’t just for customers. The addition of the Mazak 4000 Watt Laser has added sparkle to the company’s lobby as well. 304 stainless steel was cut, buffed and welded then hung up to greet customers and employees alike.

“It’s such a beautiful addition to our office. When you can design and cut a piece like this so quickly with materials we have on hand every day, it seems only right to show it off” said Jason Barrial, Laser Cell Business Leader.

Office staffers agree. “We were looking to add something stainless to our front entrance. We’re so pleased we could make it ourselves” added Arlene Nageleisen, Executive Administrative Assistant.

United Performance Metals is a leading provider of specialty stainless steel, high–temperature alloys and cobalt alloys with experience servicing an international base of customers in diverse industries including aerospace, automotive, power generation, oil and gas, medical and many others. United Performance Metals is part of the O’Neal High Performance Metals Group (O’Neal HPMG). For more information on United Performance Metals, call us at 1.800.346.2376 or email sales@upmet.com.

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

United Performance Metals Ranks High in Giving

2011-10-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

The vision of the Butler County United Way is Strengthening Communities One Person at a Time. They focus their efforts on serving local families, specifically concentrating on helping adults become self-sufficient and helping youth become successful adults. Once a year, the United Way reaches out to local businesses and encourages their employees to donate earnings to support their valuable work.

Here at United Performance Metals, we believe in providing muscle to their vision. We have risen to the call with an outstanding team effort. In fact, our charitable efforts over the last year have placed us among the Top Companies supporting the United Way in all of Butler County. “It is a priority for each of us at United Performance Metals to be good corporate citizens, giving our time through community service, or giving our hard-earned dollars to local charities through the United Way” commented Jeff Liesch, Chief Financial Officer.

A feeling of pride is shared among the 99 employees of this Hamilton, Ohio company; Ranking high on giving – and sharing!

Top Companies

Barnes Aeorspace
Butler County Employees
Butler Tech
Cincinnati Financial Corporation
Mercy Health Partners
Ohio Casualty, A Division of Liberty Mutual
The Sheperd Color Company
United Parcel Service
United Performance Metals

Connect with United Performance Metals at www.upmet.com.

UPM FAQ's

2011-10-18T05:17:00.000-07:00

Is stainless steel more resistant to wear than carbon steel?

Stainless steel in many instances is more wear resistant, especially in corrosive environments, than carbon steel. There have been numerous examples of much softer grades of stainless steel outperforming hardened grades of carbon steel. For best results, it is always recommended that you determine the best grade of stainless steel for your specific application.

UPM FAQ's

2011-10-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Can different grades of stainless steel be welded to one another?

For purposes of welding, most grades of stainless steel within the same family (i.e. 300 series to 300 series) are compatible. Welding different families of stainless steel (i.e. 300 series to 400 series) is more problematic. It is important when welding together different grades of stainless steel to ensure that each of the grades is adequately suited for the application. When welding stainless steel a filler rod or electrode made of stainless steel must be used.

UPM FAQ's

2011-10-10T06:17:00.000-07:00

Which grade of stainless steel is right for my application?

Determining the grade of stainless steel that will perform best in a particular application is a difficult one. Careful consideration should be given to the stress levels and thermo-chemical environment in which the metal is required to perform.

UPM FAQ's

2011-10-05T06:29:00.000-07:00

In which situations is an “L-Grade” of stainless steel best suited?

"L-Grade" stainless steels are low carbon grades typically used for parts which can not be annealed after fabrication by welding. The low carbon minimizes sensitization, or chromium depletion at the grain boundaries of the material which would otherwise reduce it's corrosion resistance.

United Performance Metals Increases Specialty Presence With Purchase of Plus Ten Stainless

2011-09-07T05:46:00.000-07:00

United Performance Metals has acquired Plus Ten Stainless, a premier specialty plate distributor in the San Francisco, Bay area. In addition to carrying an inventory of the most common grades of stainless steel plate, Plus Ten Stainless boasts one of the largest inventories of PRODEC® Plate on the West Coast.

The addition of Plus Ten Stainless compliments United Performance Metals’ current focus on specialty stainless and high performance flat products. “The acquisition of Plus Ten Stainless provides another opportunity to bolster our position as a premier distributor of niche oriented grades, while strengthening the presence we have built in the West Coast market over the past several years,” said United Performance Metals President, Tom Kennard. In addition to Plus Ten Stainless operations, United Performance Metals also operates a service center in La Mirada, California.

Plus Ten Stainless will maintain its own identity and continue to operate as an independent business unit that is overseen by Todd Rhodes.

United Performance Metals’ California Facility Relocates

2011-09-06T08:09:00.000-07:00

La Mirada, California – August 1, 2011-- United Performance Metals has relocated its California branch to a new facility in La Mirada in order to accommodate our continued growth in the region. The addition of space will allow us to meet our customer’s needs with even more inventory and processing equipment.

About United Performance Metals
With a history that dates back to 1982, United Performance Metals has experience servicing an international base of customers in diverse industries including aerospace, automotive, power generation, oil and gas, medical and many others. United Performance Metals is part of the O’Neal High Performance Metals Group (O’Neal HPMG). For more information on United Performance Metals, call us at 1.800.346.2376 or email sales@upmet.com.

UPM TV Features New Webcast: The UPM Difference

2011-07-15T06:34:00.000-07:00

Hamilton, Ohio – July 15, 2011-- United Performance Metals sets itself apart with the latest webcast, “The UPM Difference”. Find out what makes United Performance Metals unique to the specialty steel industry. Meet the staff; see our team in action. To view the webcast, visit www.upmet.com.

About United Performance Metals

With a history that dates back to 1982, United Performance Metals has experience servicing an international base of customers in diverse industries including aerospace, automotive, power generation, oil and gas, medical and many others. United Performance Metals is part of the O’Neal High Performance Metals Group (O’Neal HPMG). For more information on United Performance Metals, call us at 1.800.346.2376 or email sales@upmet.com.

United Performance Metals 2011 Scholarship Recipients

2011-07-06T11:24:00.000-07:00

United Performance Metals recently awarded three college students the 2011 UPM scholarship.

Kelsie Davis, daughter of Sherri Davis, HR/Training, will be starting her freshman year this fall at Northern Kentucky University. She plans to major in Psychology and minor in Journalism.

Jamie Binegar, daughter of Michael Binegar, Senior Account Manager, will be a junior at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee this fall. She is majoring in Music with an emphasis in Gospel Vocal Performance.

Natalia Carvalho, daughter of Pumma Carvalho, Assistant Controller, will also be entering her junior year. She is double majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at Duke University.

All recipients were chosen by an independent committee from Miami University. Congratulations and best wishes to all of the applicants!

United Performance Metals 2011 Scholarship Recipients

2011-07-06T11:06:00.000-07:00

United Performance Metals recently awarded three college students the 2011 UPM scholarship. Jamie Binegar, daughter of Michael Binegar, Senior Account Manager, will be a junior at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee this fall. She is majoring in Music with an emphasis in Gospel Vocal Performance. Natalia Carvalho, daughter of Pumma Carvalho, Assistant Controller, will also be entering her junior year. She is double majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at Duke University. Kelsie Davis, daughter of Sherri Davis, HR/Training, will be starting her freshman year this fall at Northern Kentucky University. She plans to major in Psychology and minor in Journalism. All recipients were chosen by an independent committee from Miami University.

Congratulations and best wishes to all of the applicants!

United Performance Metals Named One of Cincinnati’s Top Places to Work

2011-06-28T06:03:00.000-07:00

Hamilton, Ohio -- June 17, 2011 – The Enquirer Media Top Places to Work 2011 includes United Performance Metals among its best. Ranking 28 from a short list of the top 75 in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, United Performance Metals stood out as an organization that operates on strong values and ethics, provides employees with opportunities to learn and grow in their job and are encouraged to balance personal and professional pursuits, and provides great perks and pay.

Surveyed by outside partner, WorkplaceDynamics, 49,000 employees at 130 local companies were polled before ranking United Performance Metals amid the very best. The evaluation for the Top Workplaces program is based upon feedback from an employee survey, ensuring an accurate depiction of each company from across it ranks is portrayed in the survey results.

“It’s such an honor to be named among the top places to work. I want to thank each of our employees for their dedication. We have an outstanding group of individuals that make up a great team.” says Tom Kennard, President.

About United Performance Metals
With a history that dates back to 1982, United Performance Metals has experience servicing an international base of customers in diverse industries including aerospace, automotive, power generation, oil and gas, medical and many others. United Performance Metals is part of the O’Neal High Performance Metals Group (O’Neal HPMG). For more information on United Performance Metals, call us at 1.888.282.3292 or email sales@upmet.com.

Spotlight on Graduating Senior: Jake Binegar

2011-04-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

Michael Binegar, Senior Account Manager at United Performance Metals doesn’t like to boast, but he has so many reasons to be proud of his son, Jake that it’s hard to hold him back. A senior at Hamilton High School, Jake is a member of the National Honor Society and the Hamilton Quiz Team, president of the Senior Senate, a member of the yearbook staff, and he actually loves math class! In fact, Jake received the prestigious Honda-OSU Math Medal award as his school’s top math student in 2011. He is impressively ranked 13th out of 680 in his class. Believe it or not, Jake isn’t all about academics. He holds the position of pitcher for the Hamilton Big Blue varsity baseball team. Jake is also the goalie for Big Blue varsity soccer. With graduation just around the corner, Jake is looking forward to a relaxing summer trip to Florida with 14 of his buddies. He’ll need to squeeze in the fun while he can because the fall will beckon him to Ohio State University where Jake has been accepted into the Honors Engineering Program. He plans to major in Industrial and Systems Engineering. If you’re looking for a senior who’s the complete package, look no further. You’ve found it in Jake Bineger.

Spotlight of Graduating Senior: Nick Seither

2011-03-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

College is just around the corner for a number of graduating seniors. Sons and daughters of United Performance Metals’ employees are making bright plans for their future. One such example is Nick Seither, son of Jody Seither, Marketing Coordinator. Nick is a senior at Stephen T. Badin High School and has been awarded a football scholarship to Georgetown College, Georgetown, KY for the fall of 2011. Covering the positions of Defensive End and Offensive Lineman, Nick continuously outshined the competition and was duly recognized for his outstanding athleticism. Nick’s capabilities ranked him 1st Team in the GCL, 1st Team All District, 1st Team All Butler County, and 2nd Team All Ohio. Nick’s most recent accolades include being named as the Anthony Muňoz Division V Defensive Lineman of the year, GCL Defensive Lineman of the Year, and All Butler County Defensive Player of the Year, all while maintaining a 3.2 GPA. Well done, Nick! We’ll be rooting for the Georgetown Tigers!

Spotlight on Graduating Senior: Kelsie Davis

2011-03-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

Kelsie Davis, daughter of Sherri Davis, HR/Training, is a senior with a song in her heart. Kelsie is a member of the Choraliers, Fairfield High School's male/female show choir. This amazing choral performance group has obtained the title of Grand Champion in five national vocal competitions, making them undefeated in all competitions to date! The Choraliers perform head-to-head against other top-rated vocal performance groups across the nation, and they have consistently earned titles for Best Vocals, Best Choreography, Best Soloists, Best Band, and Best Tech Crew. Kelsie is also a representative of the Choraliers' Student Leadership Committee, where she serves as a role model for other members of the group. In the fall, Kelsie is planning to attend Northern Kentucky University and major in Psychology. Best of luck to you, Kelsie!

Recognizing Warning Signs Saved a Life in Jeopardy

2011-03-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

During a scheduled audit for AS9100 registration, Darryl Stanton, Director of Quality Assurance for United Performance Metals, noticed that our auditor wasn't himself - far from it in fact. Lee Eakin, from AQA International, was unusually lethargic and had little appetite. Thinking he was coming down with the flu, he didn't recognize the seriousness of his condition. It took more that just a client, it took a friend to recognize the difference. Darryl has known Lee for six years, and distinguished immediately that he was more than just a little under the weather. Darryl convinced Lee to pack up his papers and make a trip to urgent care. It didn't take long to diagnose the situation. Eakin was quickly transferred to the hospital where he underwent double by-pass surgery and a heart valve replacement. Today, Lee is back to work, looking and feeling great. Both hospital staff and those of us at United Performance Metals have complimented Darryl on his decisive actions. Darryl received The Extra Mile Award for above and beyond performance. By recognizing the warning signs, Darryl literally saved a life!

United Performance Metals Featured in Modern Metals Magazine

2011-03-23T09:33:00.000-07:00

An article titled "United Performance Metals Takes Advantage of a Niche Market" is featured in the March, 2011 issue of Modern Metals magazine. The article describes UPM's ability to service customers with our light-guage slitting equipment.

You can link directly to this article here:
http://www.modernmetals.com/common/articlesearchdetail.asp?currentpage=10005

Webcast Features Shear Processing Capabilities

2011-03-23T06:42:00.000-07:00

United Performance Metals, Hamilton, OH has posted a new webcast on its website, featuring its in-house Shearing capabilities and touring its Pick and Pack, Receiving and Shipping departments. This latest webcast installment rounds out a multi-part series featuring United Performance Metals’ complete line of in-house processing capabilities, including Cut-to-Length, Pick and Pack, Slitting, Shearing, Leveling, and Edging. To view the webcast, visit www.upmet.com. United Performance Metals is a leading supplier of stainless steel and high temperature alloys.

United Performance Metals Welcomes Three New Members to the Sales Team

2011-01-31T09:58:00.000-08:00

United Performance Metals Welcomes Three New Members to the Sales Team

Hamilton, Ohio – January 27, 2010—United Performance Metals is pleased to welcome three new members to its outside sales team: Yan Lebas—Europe, Mike Moss--California and Brian Schumpp—Midwestern United States.

Selected for their knowledge of the metals industry, each of these new hires extends United Performance Metals’ coverage of domestic and foreign markets and geographies. Mr. Lebas formerly held positions in both sales and marketing for ATI France and Haynes France compiling over twelve years in the metals industry. Mr. Moss has over twenty years in the sheet metal and fabrication industry working with Amada America and Fadal Machining Centers (a division of Thyssenkrupp Metal Cutting Group)among others. Mr. Schumpp has over four years in the metals industry, most recently as an Outside Account Manager with TW Metals and as a ferro alloy trader with the David J. Joseph Company.

About United Performance Metals:
With a history that dates back to 1982, United Performance Metals has experience servicing an international base of customers in diverse industries including aerospace, automotive, power generation, oil and gas, medical and many others. United Performance Metals is part of the O’Neal High Performance Metals Group (O’Neal HPMG).

For more information on United Performance Metals, call us at 1.800.346.2376 or email sales@upmet.com.

2011-01-11T05:40:00.000-08:00

WWII Veteran William Magee Retains A Piece of Wartime History and Transforms It Into A Family Legacy

When Airman William Magee's plane was hit during a bombing run in World War II, he parachuted to safety in the snowy hills of Southern Yugoslavia. Through the generosity of the Serbian partisans, Magee and his fellow crewmembers were able to survive.

The Bosnian women Magee encountered were particularly intrigued with the soldier's parachute. "They marveled over the silk material." After spending nearly three months in their country, Magee tore off a panel of his parachute and gave it to the women as a token of his gratitude for their aid. When he was able to rejoin the allied forces, Magee sent another panel of the parachute home to his wife, Sue. Back in the states, Sue was expecting their first child. She had already been informed that her husband was Missing in Action and had little hope of his safe return. Once the silk panel was in her possession, she quickly had it made into a symbol of her renewed faith; a baptismal gown for their upcoming child.

"I have eight children, twenty-four grandchildren, and twenty-two great-grandchildren. That's a lot of children!" remarked Magee. Each one of them was baptized wearing the gown that was created from his parachute. That list of family members includes his grandson, our own Jeff Magee, Export Sales Account Manager for United Performance Metals. "I was baptized in that gown, and I am very proud to be a part of this family and this great tradition." And it won't stop there. The Smithsonian Institute has asked Magee for a piece of the parachute silk for their WWII memorabilia. Although he's considering it, for now, his family legacy will remain at home where it can be kept safe and ready for the next generation.

Holly Sparks Blazes through Opponents on the Soccer Field & Earns a Scholarship to Indiana State

2010-10-01T07:23:00.000-07:00

UPM’s CTL Operator, Jim Sparks, lights up when he talks about his daughter playing soccer. Jim comments, “It’s so fun to watch Holly play soccer. She pours her heart into everything she does on the field.” Holly, who is 16 and a junior at Fairfield High School, has been kicking around a soccer ball since she was four. When she was just starting out in Say Soccer she would strive to keep up with her sister, Kayla, who is two years older. As they got older and joined select teams, Holly was often asked to step in and play for Kayla’s teams if a player was missing.

Holly currently plays Left Defender for Fairfied High School’s Varsity Women’s Soccer Team (9-3-0), and also for the Cincinnati Soccer Alliance Elite select soccer team “The Blaze”. This team got its nickname by blazing through their opponents, winning the State Tournament the last two years. As State Champions, Holly traveled with the team to South Dakota in 2009 where they took 2nd place in the Midwest Region, and to New Jersey in 2010 where they took 6th.

One of the special highlights for Holly this year was being voted by her coaches and peers as the first ever Junior Captain of her high school team. She has verbally committed to attend Indiana State on scholarship for women's soccer when she graduates from Fairfield in 2012. Holly credits her coaches, Fairfield’s Heather Fischer and Amy Lower, and CSA’s Alex Rawlings, as her mentors. Jim’s pride shows through when he comments, “I’m grateful that Holly is able to continue to play soccer, something she loves to do, while getting a great education.”

UPM's Own Home Run King

2010-09-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

With an early introduction to sports at age five, Trace Thomas, son of United Performance Metals’ Carol Thomas, Senior Account Manager, has had many accomplishments in just five years of playing so far. Most recently, his little league 10-year-old team won districts for the Southwest region of Ohio and went on to compete at the state tournament. (The older 12-year-old team from his club appeared in the Little League World Series featured recently on ESPN.)

Both Carol and her husband, Scott, always have enjoyed sports, Carol having played volleyball, tennis, and golf for years. When Trace turned five, they signed him up for t-ball and he has been playing every since. “When he was little he always ran around with a baseball bat,” Carol recalls. He still loves to hit, and spent a lot of extra time practicing with his dad before games and practices this season.

Trace played for the West Side Indians during regular season this year. He then was selected for the 10-year-old "A" Allstars, which he has made each year since he was eight. This year, the "A" Allstars went undefeated at the district level and won District Nine. During the tournament, Trace played second, third, and left field. He even was able to hit his first homerun during one of the district games. After winning districts, his team progressed to the state tournament.

The state tournament took place in Ironton, Ohio and Trace played second, third, and pitcher. Although his team lost two out of three games, which sent them home, Trace hit another homerun during one of the games. Hitting homeruns at both districts and state has been Trace’s greatest baseball accomplishment thus far.

In addition to playing baseball, Trace also plays basketball for his school on Team Hamilton-Blue in the CYO League. He is taking a year off from football to work on his golf game as well.

Carol really enjoyed seeing her son play at districts and state this year. She was especially proud after he hit one of his homeruns. “He saw me jumping up and down and yelling as he was rounding second,” she remembers with a laugh. Trace finished the season with a .545 batting average, hitting 6-11 at state. Trace Thomas is 10 years old and a fifth grader at Ridgeway Elementary.

UPM Employees Lead the Way in Community Involvement

2010-09-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

In the community of Hamilton, a program dedicated to creating leadership among individuals and area companies has been in place since 1990. Leadership Hamilton, developed by the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, is a nine-month course in which participants explore and engage in a range of public issues including economic development, education, criminal justice, city government, healthcare, and social services. At the end of the year, each Leadership Hamilton Class votes on and completes a community project.

Several UPM employees have participated in Leadership Hamilton, including Supply Chain Manager Tim Baxter, HR Manager Pam McAlpin, and Marketing Manager Sherri Davis.

Tim Baxter recalls his experience with Leadership Hamilton as a 2006 graduate of the program. Baxter’s Class 16 raised money to support artistic benches being displayed across the city. Because Hamilton is the county seat, the class felt the bench project was an appropriate way to illustrate Hamilton’s position in the county while simultaneously promoting the wonderful art talent found in the city.

“I certainly encourage anyone to participate [in the program],” says Baxter. “You are able to see it [the city of Hamilton] instead of just listening to stories, and you become aware of how the Chamber works closely with the programs of the city and how they benefit each other.”

Class 17, from which Pam McAlpin graduated in 2007, assisted the Hamilton School District with a levy campaign. They helped to get the district levy passed for that year, which provided funding for Hamilton public schools. “I learned a lot about the city of Hamilton by participating in this program,” notes McAlpin.

Sherri Davis’ Class 18 focused on healthcare by helping to spruce up the Bever Community Health Center, a community clinic on the east side of Hamilton, and organizing the grand opening of Primary Health Solutions’ new pediatric clinic located on the west side. These clinics provide healthcare and treatment to all patients, including those who may otherwise go without due to lack of employment or insurance. This was particularly relevant to Class 18, as the recession was in full swing at that time in 2008. Davis comments, “Through Leadership Hamilton I learned about so many great things happening in our community and ways that I can be involved to make a difference.”

Dawn Clark and Family- Down on the Farm

2010-08-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

By Shannon Miranda

Like most other high school students, Katie Clark, 15, daughter of United Performance Metals' Senior Account Manager Dawn Clark, is involved in multiple activities. Being a junior at Talawanda High School, Katie is a varsity cheerleader for the school's football and basketball teams; however, she is also involved in 4-H and Future Farmers of America and recently won multiple awards at the Butler County Fair.

Katie became interested with 4-H and FFA when she was seven years old. Her two older sisters, who are now 22 and 24, had also been involved. Since her family lives on a small farm, Katie keeps her animals close to home and cares for them with the help of her parents. Most recently, she had been taking care of two sheep and two pigs for the 2010 Butler County Fair. Katie's family also has lambs and goats on their farm. "It teaches her responsibility and taking care of her projects," says Dawn.

At the recent Butler County Fair, Katie showed her four animals in multiple classes that are separated by the weight of the animal. After she gets herself ready for the day, dressed in jeans, a special button down shirt, and a special belt, Katie must get her animals ready for the day as well. She prepares her animals by feeding, washing, and brushing them. This year, Katie did not name her animals. After each fair, the animals go to the packer. Dawn explains, "She used to name her animals, but when you name them, then you become personally attached to them. Then they leave, and it's really hard. [This past year] she cried when her sheep left. Even though she's been doing it so many years, it's still hard."

This year's fair was a big win for Katie. Her greatest accomplishment was being named the Reserved Champion for her lamb at the Butler County Junior Fair Born and Raised Sheep Show. She also won Swine Showmanship, first place in age group, and second in Sheep Showmanship in her age group. Dawn especially enjoys memories of her daughters winning awards over the years. "They work so hard during the summer that it is nice to see them win. Then, their hard work pays off."

Jeff Liesch and Father Biking Across Ohio

2010-08-20T06:58:00.000-07:00

By Shannon Miranda

Taking a week long bike ride may not seem like your typical summer vacation, but for Jeff Liesch, Chief Financial Officer at United Performance Metals, this week long adventure has become an annual vacation, and a family tradition. After being roped in by his father, who retired ten years ago and is an avid cyclist, Jeff has been on each of the last three cycling trips that take place around Father's Day each June.

The Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure (GOBA) has been hosting these excursions for 22 years. These trips last for seven days and riders of all ages bike approximately 50 miles each day. About 2,500-3,000 people join in on these long, moving vacations each summer, looping through small-town Ohio. Participants bike during the day and camp at night. "Ride, Eat, Sleep" is one of the slogans you see on this tour.

Jeff's 71-year-old father rode in his tenth consecutive GOBA this past June. When Jeff half-heartedly mentioned interest three years ago, he suddenly found himself participating. "This is my dad's thing," says Jeff. Jeff's dad calls it his "annual Alzheimer's test." If he can be organized enough to pack for a week's trip, set up, tear down, bike, and deal with the heat, then he's good to go for another year.

On a typical day, Jeff and his dad get up at 5:30 in the morning, eat breakfast, break camp, and are on their bikes by 7:30. Some people rush to get going and beat the crowd, but not Jeff and his father who see it more as a leisure activity. "Look, we're on vacation. This is not a race or a mission," states Jeff. GOBA provides trucks to carry participants' luggage to each stop and semi-truck shower stations are provided to help cool down and clean up the cyclists. Some of the small-town stops allow the bikers to pay money to stay in their facilities. For example, in Marietta, Ohio, participants had the choice of camping in tents or sleeping at the College of Marietta.

Most participants involved are avid cyclists who spend anywhere from $1,000-$5,000 on gear and light-weight bikes. At first, Jeff explained that he wasn't anything like the other cyclists. He recalls the first day of his first bike ride, "A guy came up to me and asked me if I had been to the 'such and such' bike museum. I said, recognizing his point, 'Why? Is my bike in the front window?'" Jeff had been using a 30-year-old Schwinn Continental that was steel framed and very heavy. He upgraded his "gear" this past year when he found out the trip would be in the Hocking Hills of southeastern Ohio. Jeff now rides a 27-speed bike instead of a ten-speed bike.

Jeff has been staying fit throughout his life. In his 20's he played golf and softball and was a casual runner. When he was 30, he joined an over 30 baseball team and continued to play for 15 years. "Not softball, we are talking overhand baseball. I am a pitcher," he explains. He says he was in the best shape of his life when he helped his brother-in-law run a boot camp fitness program for two years after his youngest son was born.

Jeff considers himself more of a runner than a biker, having run 13 marathons over seven years. There is a category for runners that are not the typical small or shorter athlete. It is called the "Clydesdale," which is the category that Jeff ran. In addition to keeping himself fit, he also coached his boy's sports team in baseball, basketball, football and soccer. With his daughter, "Try as I might, I was not much of a cheerleading and dance coach," jokes Jeff.

Jeff and his wife have been married for nearly 24 years. They have four children, two in college, one in high school, and one in grade school. "I am trying to coerce one of my kids to go [in the GOBA], but they aren't buying it yet. I may need to just tell one of them that they have to go, because my dad would really like to see three generations on the road," concludes Jeff.

United Performance Metals 2010 Scholarship Recipients

2010-08-13T06:10:00.000-07:00

By Shannon Miranda

United Performance Metals recently awarded Natalia Carvalho and Megan Freeman with the annual UPM Scholarship. United Performance Metals awards two recipients with the scholarship each year as part of its commitment to continued education and higher learning. The scholarships are based on academic achievement and applicant's responses to a written essay.

Natalia Carvalho, daughter of Pumma Carvalho, Assistant Controller, is entering her sophomore year at Duke University. She is majoring in Electrical Computer Engineering. Megan Freeman, stepdaughter of Jeff Allen, Account Manager, will be a freshman at the University of Kentucky, majoring in Biology. Congratulations to both recipients!

Golf- A Game for Life

2010-08-11T08:35:00.001-07:00

By Shannon Miranda

If it's true that golf is a game you can enjoy for life, then Sammi Blackburn, daughter of United Performance Metals' Assistance Foreman Chris Blackburn, certainly has a head start on the rest of us. Although just 11 years old, Sammi has already been playing for years and has even won championships in area junior events.

While Sammi first got involved with golfing by being taken along to the course when she was very young, Chris admits that she does not get her skill from him, or anyone else in his family for that matter. At about the age of eight, she started golfing by herself. Chris recalls the time when Sammi really began to enjoy golfing. "You could tell that when she started getting good and hitting the ball well, she really liked it," he remembers.

Sammi is currently in the sixth grade at Monroe, but she does not play golf for them. The junior gold tournaments that she enters take place all over the country. This year, Sammi was in the Southern Ohio PGA. This association holds 15 tournaments a year with age groups ranging from 9-17. Some of the locations include Middletown and Columbus. Just recently, Sammi won the Hamilton County Park District Championship. Also, she qualified to play in the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

As with any sport, much of Sammi's time is consumed with her golfing. In the summer alone, she plays in about 25 tournaments. She has come to find more friends within her golfing than at school. These friends are from all over the country, and she has kept in touch with them through e-mail throughout the years. Just recently, Sammi was able to attend the U.S. Women's Open and meet one of her favorite players, Paula Creamer. She also looks up to professional women's golfers Natalie Gulbis and Michelle Wui. Chris says that he believes his daughter will continue to play golf in the upcoming years and even into college. Chris comments, "As parents, we are really proud of what she has done."

Binegar's Salsa Spices Up Local Restaurants

2010-07-26T05:41:00.000-07:00

By Shannon Miranda

Everyone loves chips and salsa. It's a snack-time favorite that anyone can enjoy. Most people buy the typical, store-bought brand salsa, but Mike Binegar, Senior Account Manager at United Performance Metals, out of Hamilton, Ohio, prefers to make his own. About ten years ago, after being dissatisfied with store-bought salsa, Binegar created his own recipe.

Binegar has always enjoyed cooking and even does about 90% of the cooking at his house. He especially enjoys summer-time cooking where he can grill out and experiment with new marinades. When he first started making batches of salsa, it was just for personal use; however, employees of UPM, customers, and even local restaurants have come to love his recipe.

What is it that makes Binegar's salsa so good? "The secret is in the mix," he says. His recipe includes tomatoes, tomato sauce, onions, cilantro, and a mix of peppers. The amount and selection of peppers depends on how spicy the salsa batch is being made. There are jalepenos, chiles, super chiles, cayans, and habaneros if it is a hot batch. Binegar makes mild, medium, and hot salsa selections.

Around the UPM office, mostly everyone wants mild, but some can't even stand that much heat. Others, like Pumma Carvalho, Assistant Controller, and Ray Miranda, Nickel and Specialty Product Manager, enjoy the spice. Binegar says that Justin Spoerl, Regional Account Manager, begs for more heat, saying that the salsa can't be made "too hot."

As for the best tortilla chips to go with Binegar's salsa, most people say Tostito's Scoops; however, Binegar says that for added flavor, Cosco sells tortilla strips that are great. "They gave great texture and aren't too heavy," he explains. Also, the perfect meal to use this salsa in is Binegar's version of "Mexican meatloaf." This recipe is very similar to regular meatloaf, but instead of adding onions, put the salsa in instead and smother the meatloaf in the salsa as well.

Binegar's salsa has not solely become famous around the UPM office. A few years back, the company decided to professionally can 55 gallons of salsa and send it to 350 customers for Christmas. This is when Binegar began to mass produce his salsa. He now makes about ten gallons a week and six gallons are used for general sales. Also, his salsa is used at two local restaurants, Wings and Rings and Gina's, an Italian restaurant, in Hamilton.

UPM Unites to Join Earthquake Relief Efforts

2010-07-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

By Shannon Miranda

Although many have seen the tremendous amount of recent support and restoration efforts for the victims of the Haitian earthquake this past year, support effort recently took on a more personal meaning for employees of United Performance Metals, out of Hamilton, Ohio. Senior Account Manager, Dawn Clark, received news that a manager at a customer's location had lost a daughter in the earthquake. She had been doing missionary work in Haiti when the tragedy occurred.

Molly Hightower, 22, had been volunteering and working in Haiti with the "Friends of the Orphans" organization. She created the idea of a shoe drive just six months before the earthquake occurred. Her family and friends decided to keep her idea alive and help out the relief effort by carrying on the shoe drive that such a caring and passionate woman had started.

Once word got out, UPM and many other companies sent information out to employees. Clark asked her co-workers at UPM to help this cause. Soon enough, pairs of shoes were rolling into the office. "My family and relatives donated shoes. We normally would throw our worn-out shoes away, so it felt nice to not throw something into the trash and instead have it put to good use, almost like recycling," said Tracy Graff, Supply Chain Sheet Planner. Dawn Haire, Distribution Segment Manager, along with her family, also donated shoes. "It was great to be able to help, though it didn't nearly offset the pity and concern we felt for those individuals. I wish we could have done more," stated Haire. UPM estimates that 500 pairs of shoes were donated to the shoe drive altogether.

Highlighted Alloy: 17-4 Stainless Steel

2010-02-18T07:53:00.000-08:00

Focus on 17-4PH Stainless Steel

While most of the world believes stainless steel is en vogue because of its aesthetic properties, it is actually its strength and durability that makes it a popular choice in most applications. There are many different grades of stainless steel that are categorized based upon their chemistry and method of manufacture. One grade of stainless that is increasing in popularity and use is 17-4 PH also generically known as precipitation hardened stainless steel.
There are three important properties that make 17-4PH such an attractive grade for a variety of applications including aerospace, petro-chemical, food and dairy and medical. They include resistance to corrosion, durability and price.

Corrosion Resistance – As you might guess, the applications noted above represent highly corrosive environments. The surfaces of the metal used in these applications are under constant attack. 17-4PH is particulary well suited because it is designed to fight off detoriation—quite simply it doesn’t break down and continues to work for long periods of time.

Durability – 17-4PH is martensitic grade of steel. Precipitation hardening of the steel is achieved by a simple short time low temperature treatment. The result is an alloy that is both tough and durable. It also produces an alloy that is more easily fabricated and welded than other martensitic grades. This makes the grade an excellent choice in applications where the metal is subjected to day-after-day stresses.

Price – While there might be other grades of steel that are capable of doing the job of 17-4PH, it is difficult to find any that do it as cost effectively. 17-4PH is a strong candidate for projects that require an alloy with strong corrosion resistance, durability, but requiring economy.

United Performance Metals stocks a complete range of 17-4PH and 17-7PH thicknesses and can be contacted at 1.888.282.3292 or visited on the web at www.upmet.com.

United Performance Metals Jim Garitson Customizes A Harley Davidson Wide Glide

2010-01-15T13:31:00.000-08:00

In retrospect, Jim Garitson (United Performance Metals, Slitter Operator) recognizes that his love of metalworking started when he was young, and was solely out of necessity. Growing up modestly in the small Midwestern town of Trenton, OH, Jim comments, “I didn’t always have the money to buy new things, so I had to learn to fix up what I had.” What began as repairing bicycle fenders and replacing wheel spokes developed over the years into full-out overhauls of cars and trucks, and most recently included the complete customization of a Harley Davidson stock bike. Garitson’s experience in metal processing at United Performance Metals, as well as his machining and engine building experience at previous employers, gave him the confidence to tackle these more challenging projects. After completing work on a Chevrolet K1500 pickup in 2007, Jim sold the truck and purchased a Harley Wide Glide (pictured). Jim has spent the last two years customizing nearly every part of the motorcycle. “Nothing on the bike is original,” he notes, from the CAM, carburetor, ignition, and exhaust system to the body, including rims and even the handlebars. Several new parts of the Harley are of particular interest to Garitson because of his day job. His new Vance & Hines exhaust system, as well as the clutch cables, brake line, throttle cable, and fuel lines, are made out of stainless steel which Jim is quite familiar with. “I’ve been a Slitter Operator at UPM for 11 years,” comments Garitson. “It makes me feel good to know that the stainless that I work with everyday is used to make some of the parts for my cars and bikes.”

Garitson's Harley Davidson Wide Glide prior to customization.