The Star SR-38 type B, Star SR-20RIV type B, and three other existing Star SR-20 Swiss machines will be dedicated to the USPS project. (Image courtesy SDP-SDI)
SDP/SI said it will manufacture specialized precision components for a new locking system in support of the U.S. Postal Service’s initiative to prevent theft of mail.
HICKSVILLE, N.Y.—Stock Drive Products/Sterling Instrument (SDP/SI), a Designatronics company, will be manufacturing specialized precision components for a new locking system in support of the U.S. Postal Service’s initiative to prevent the theft of mail, the company said in a release.
According to SDP/SI, the USPS reported “an increase in high-volume mail theft incidents from mail receptacles, including blue collection boxes,” citing a total of 38,500 in fiscal year 2022 and more than 25,000 in the first half of fiscal year 2023. The USPS has taken action to upgrade the blue collection boxes with a superior locking system, the company said.
“We’re collaborating on this initiative with our sister company, McGard (https://mcgard.com/), located in Orchard Park, New York, which is spearheading this project with its proprietary bolt-head lock design,” said Robert Kufner, president and CEO of Designatronics, Inc., in a statement.
In response to the urgent need, two Star Swiss-type lathes, equipped with chip conveyors and magazine bar feeders, have been purchased and installed at the SDP/SI manufacturing facility in Hicksville. The Star SR-38 type B, Star SR-20RIV type B, and three other existing Star SR-20 Swiss machines will be dedicated to the USPS project, producing 35,000 precision parts per month for the new locking system, according to the release.
“SDP/SI has a long history of producing high-precision components for medical, aerospace, and defense industries, and [we] are proud of the confidence in us as the most qualified provider,” said Kufner. “Utilizing the latest technologies, our skilled team will deliver these essential components at a rapid rate in support of the U.S. Postal Services crime prevention initiative.”
Established in 1950 as a comprehensive source for small mechanical and electromechanical components, SDP/SI concentrates on the design and manufacture of precision gears, high-performing mechanical components, and customized products for motion control and small power transmission applications. The company manufactures and assembles components at the company’s ISO 9001 and AS9100 certified facility in Hicksville.
McGard manufactures mechanical anti-theft devices, including Wheel Locks, which are recognized by automobile companies and car owners worldwide. The company’s standard products include locks to secure manhole covers, fire hydrants, and industrial and residential water and gas shutoffs. McGard also provides a variety of security solutions for the U.S. Postal Service, according to the release.