A Visit to the Carpenter Enameling Center: Honoring the Legacy of Vitreous Enamel
Recently, James Lakeman visited The Carpenter Enameling Center in Bellevue, KY. This center showcases the rich history of enameling, with artifacts dating back as far as 200 AD. It was an incredible experience to see how this art form has stood the test of time, evolving into industrial applications that shape modern manufacturing.
James' connection to the enameling world goes back many years, thanks to his relationship with Woody Carpenter. In the early days of Glasslined Technologies Inc. (GTI), they frequently worked with Ceramic Coating Company (CCC) for new parts and reglazing projects. Woody was always generous with his knowledge, spending countless hours sharing insights about the enameling process.
As time went on, Woody approached James with a unique proposition—to acquire CCC. Eventually, they moved forward with the purchase, relocating the facility to Greensboro, GA. While some large furnaces remained in Bellevue, they transferred all intellectual property, most fixtures, and machining to the new location. This transition allowed them to expand their capabilities while preserving the legacy and expertise CCC had built over the years.
Glasslined Technologies piece on display at the Carpenter Enameling Center in KY.
Vitreous enamel has existed for thousands of years as an art form, with its industrial applications emerging in the 1800s. Interestingly, these two worlds—artistic enameling and industrial enameling—rarely intersect, despite their shared foundation in fusing glass to metal. To help bridge this gap, and as a tribute to Woody, Glasslined Technologies has a piece on display at the museum. The small reactor drive system serves as a testament to how glass-lined steel is used in industries spanning cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, plastics, food processing, explosives, and chemicals, among many others.
Reflecting on this visit, James is reminded of how enameling continues to shape our world in both artistic and practical ways. Glass-lined steel remains a crucial material in countless industries, and GTI is proud to be part of this enduring legacy. Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures that vitreous enamel will continue to play a vital role in modern manufacturing for years to come.
