Pad Steaming Group

Problem statement

The current steaming process for Lake Country Manufacturing is inefficient and does not meet the company’s desired production needs. Steaming of wool pads is essential in the manufacturing process because it induces swelling in the fibers, and thus prevents shedding [1]. Following the tufting phase, where the pads are sewn together, wool pads are placed on racks individually. One by one, the pads are lifted from the sewing machine and laid on a wire rack. The process requires a person to stand and repeat the following motions: lift, turn, release, life turn release, all day long wasting precious time. After the rack is covered in pads, it is wheeled across the room. Once again a person must stand and insert the racks individually into the steamer. The steaming portion of the process requires manpower that takes away time and energy from other work that could be done. The pad steaming system can be innovated to improve overall productivity in order to accomplish that increase in efficiency. Our team plans to first work on the steaming cabinet and rack system to improve the quantity and quality of the pads. From there, we will be able to implement a new steaming system, and then branch out to improve the drying system as well.

[1] ‘The Secrets of Wool Pads: Sourcing Materials and Fabrication,’ Lake Country Manufacturing, Web Team, accessed Sep. 18, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://lakecountrymfg.com/detailbay/the-secrets-of-wool-pads-sourcing-materials-and-fabrication

Team members

Alexander Lewin – communicator
Jacob Mcconnell – facilitator
Quinn Pyka – accountant
Thatcher Lecaire – admin

Client

Chuck Kendall
Lake County Manufacturing