Madisonville, KY - Ruby Concrete is 140 years old and the oldest continuous business in Hopkins County.  Began as Ruby Lumber, the company has transformed itself over the years; but, the company is prepared to make a 50 year leap in technology.  Ruby Lumber began making concrete blocks when Clyde Ruby returned home after WWII and bought a used block making machine.  Over the years Ruby Concrete has perfected the art and science of making concrete blocks. 

 

The tough and durable concrete block is still used by the mining industry and is a steadfast building product for residential, commercial and industrial construction. 

Technology has entered the block manufacturing industry offering increased flexibility and productivity.  Entire new product lines have emerged over the past several years including improved pavers and landscaping products.  Color options and improved quality control are the result of technology.

 

 

Kent Waide, president of Ruby Concrete, rolled out the new plant at the Madisonville Rotary Club meeting on Wednesday.  Ruby Concrete is in its final testing of its new 20,000 square foot manufacturing facility.  All new equipment and freshly trained employees will be several times more efficient producing up to 1,800 concrete blocks per hour from the new Besser Block Machine.  The automated equipment takes over, stacking and transporting the green blocks to the kiln for an overnight bake.  The finished block or other concrete products will be stacked on pallets for shipment all by automation.

Amazingly, the new facility is not build of concrete block .  It is a translucent fabric over truss arches - creating a obstruction free manufacturing floor with abundant light.  The facility is located behind Kroger and will continue to employ about 15 employees.

 

Ron Sanders

iSurf Local News and Information affecting Madisonville and Hopkins County Kentucky.  Make us your homepage at http://www.isurfhopkinsco.com/.

 

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