DUNEDIN EXHIBITS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19249, 13 August 1924, Page 4

DUNEDIN EXHIBITS.

BRITISH EMPIRE EXHIBITION, WEMBLEY. [Published bt Arrangement.] N.Z. WAX VESTAS COMPANY, LIMITED. , "Whatever may be said of Now Zealand’s display at the great British Empire Exhibition at Wembley, there is plenty of evidence that the dominion may bo justly proud of some of the individual exhibits, testifying, as they do, that, even as regards our secondary industries, we can manufacture goods, in certain lines, equal to the best produced elsewhere. Throughout New Zealand it is now appreciated as a fact that the wax vestas made by the New Zealand Wax Vesta Company, Lirnitecl (Cavorsham), are not merely equal to, but in every respect, superior to the imported makes; and aware of this recognition by ihe dominion public it should surprise no one that the firm had no hesitation in responding to Ihe invitation of the New Zealand Government to send an exhibit of its wares to England, for, in doing so. it .fears no comparison which may bo made with other makes.

The factory where these renowned vestas are made is situated in David street, at Caversham, near the corner of Forbury road. It is a substantial structure of brick, and the architects. Messrs Goombes and White, have certainly arranged the workrooms. offices, etc., to the best advantage. The building fulfils every modern demand for Iho comfort of Ihe employees, including Beparale dining rooms, cloak-rooms, and lavatories (with hot and cold water laid on) for the women and men. also an. intermediate kitchen equipped with every convenience for cooking, washing-up.- etc. In this connection it may bo mentioned, also, that at Ihe back of the factory is a recreation ground upon part of which it is proposed in the near future to form a lawn tennis court. . .

Before entering the factory a visitor naturally introduces himself at the office, and is shown into the manager’s (Mr Oleawin) room. Here he may ho assured of a courteous reception, and if his credentials ■warrant it, may. as was a r epreuentative of this paper, be shown over the factory. . The factory impresses one, immediately on entrance, with the idea of loftiness and space. Numerous as are the machines occupying the floor, and all in sight, there is no crowding, the lighting and ventilation are perfect, and an air of cleanliness and orderliness pervades uniformly throughout. This is (he box or container makiim department — i.e., the little cylindrical, boxes ■or tubes with which all pipe smokers are familiar. and also the flat boxes in which the “Royal Wax Vestas” are retailed, are made hero. Au automatic machine known .as. a' “stripper” represents the' initial step in the making of containers. It big roll of, strn.wboard amt outs it into 17 cods .of the required width simultaneously. "(These coils, after passing through a damping process, are fed on to a machine which makes the tubes, cuts them into lengths of. about 15in each, and does this at the rate of from 50ft to 60ft, a minute. These 15in leiigths are next dealt with by a succession of machines, which in turn reduce them,, into (he correct length for tubes and lids, furnishes them with the white inner tubes, cuts and fits in the discs which form the lops and bottoms of the boxes, and cuts out and pastes on the sand discs on which the matches are struck. Circular revolving tables perform these last mentioned operations at the rate of 120 boxes a minute.

Just here it may be mentioned that the machines already described —or most of them —as well as others in the factory, were made on the premises by the firm’s own engineers, an efficient; plant for the purpose being installed, and a carpenter's shop adjoins. The economy underlying sueh work is indicated when it is revealed that tho lowest tender for one particular work — ■which actually cost only £10 —-was £203. this being the difference between tho cost of a freezing plant and this novel arrangement for drying the matches in the proscribed time. The discs already referred to are out by a guillotine which is furnished with 11 separate punches, and each sheet of strawboard placed in it produces 500 discs. -What are described as “shouldering” machines make the white inner tubes and do so to such a nicety as regards diameter that they “slide” into the cuter tubes so exattly that tho uninitiated must, find it hard to believe that the one has not been pasted on to the other. However, it was explained that exactness to the extent of 10C0 of an inch is required in work of this kind. The making of the flat boxes for the “Royal Wax Vestas” is just as interesting to watch as is that of tube making, though, whilst awaiting machinery for their more expeditious manufacture, some of tho work is at present done by deft hands. An ingenious machine is employed for the insertion of the inner pink slip. It automatically inserts tho slips, cut them to the correct length, presses them into place, end glues them, all these operations being performed as the boxes progress along a train. This machine also is one of the (firm’s manufacture. A great deal more might bo said anenfc this box-making department and the intricate machinery it contains, but readers will, naturally, bo mote interested in learning about the processes involved in the making of the vestas themselves.

The vesta room is really a largo hall of 84ft, x 40ft dimension. The first process, needless to say, is the making of the tapers. The raw material—i.e., the cotton required for this purpose, is imported in reels of 1200 yards, each containing 100 ends, each end containing 18 strands. The ends are drawn through eyelet boles, which are driven m a metal plate, and drawn through baths of stearine. These baths are made of cast iron and kept perfectly clean so as not to discolour the wax. The stearine. which is a kind of refined tallow, is melted in large steam kettles, and mixed with gurn copal and other things. The taper is wound on to large drums wihch are situated on either side of the pap containing the molten stearine, and passes five times through the stearine bath and another time for polishing, when it is then ready to be cut up into the required lengths for vestas. One bale of cotton absorbs about 7cwt of the stearine mixture. As we have said, each bale contains 100 ends. If these ends were joined they would reach from Dunedin to Oanmru ! Four million vestas are obtained from a bale of cotton, and the tapers are made at the rate of about 60 miles an hour. The tapers, once made, are conveyed on a large drum to the vestamaking machine, which, tp all intents and purposes, is a chain 900 ft long. This (bain consists of links, ouch link holding 100 matches in two rows of 50, and there are throe rows of matches to oaoh inch of length'. On the chain, at one time, are |,SbOiGOO matches, and to a visitor they convey ‘ the idea of an immense bvowncappcd army, in lengthy columns, on the march. As the tapers (50 at a time) are fed into' this machine they are admitted bv the links automatically opening for their accommodation, and are drawn forward to 50' knives, ' which cut them into matchlengths. They now travel on the chain down a slope and over a heated kettle, which’ places the heads on the matches. Thence they pass around drums, which enclose. revolving fans and are dried. Befqre tbs' matches are released from tho chain they have to make an overhead return journey to their starting place, where, by 50 simultaneous punches, they are dropped into carriages each holding the correct number to fill a bqx. A supplementary chain carries these''-carriages still another step, where, tin arrival, they are forced into their ultimate- boxes and thence to tho terminus, where the lids are punched on at the rate of 120 boxes a minute. We have been, describing the filling of the tube containers only, but it is by a similar process that the flat Koval wax vesta boxes are filled. ~ , . . , , , ■’A circular turntable ingeniously enables five girls to overtake the packing of tho dutches into the cases in which they leave the factory. , , The mixing'room, where tho 16 mgrcoifnts which go to the making of the composition which composes the head of each jnfitch are mixed, is quite separate from ♦he departments already described, and here it was explained that phosphorus in the crude form is not now used in vesta making, Sesqui sulphide, a refined form of phosphorus, neither poisonous nor otherwise dangerous to the workers, has taken its place, and as a result the much-dreaded “oh OMV jaw” no longer worries tho workers •in a mafeh factory. In still another building, some distance from the factory, is stored all dangerous—i.e., explosive products. An important department, within tho factory is the pattern room, in which castings, etpj, and-the more valuable fittings are kept. The -New Zealand Wax Vesta Company was established about 30 years ago, when about a dozen bands wore employed, but

the present premises, with its modern machinery, was opened in 1922; but '‘progress’’ being the slogan of the linn, new plant, is being continuously installed, and, no doubt, as it is difficult even now to cope with the ever-increasing demand for their product., the near future will see considerable extensions to buildings and additions to plant. GEO. NEWEY AND CO. Another Ann which is exhibiting at, Wembley is the well-known one of (100. Newcy and Co.. 122 George street, Dunedin, wholesale and retail manufacturers of travelling trunks and bags. This firm has sent a very nice range of suit, cases, Gladstone bags, kit, brief, blouse, and attache cases, wliti.lt for finish and workmanship compare most favourably with any we have- seen, whether of local manufacture or imported. They are large manufacturers of these goods, and as their output meets with a ready sale throughout New Zealand, this fact, should he sufl’icicnt to prove that, quality and price meet with general approval, and that Dunedin manufacturers are able; to hold their own against; all competitors, tfc is necessary to slate that, their manufactures are not conlined to leather, as they have largo ranges in fibre, canvas, and leather cloth covering at prices to suit, all pockets, and in making a specialty of ladies' and gents' fitted dressing cases customers’ own fittings will be used if desired. Travellers' sample cases are also amongst (heir many lines. Wo have seen their well-equipped factory, and anyone interested xvill always be wel comer!. Being large importers of fancy leather goods, such as ladies' handbags, manicure wises. purses, letter wallets, collar boxes, writing cases, etc., fheir show' rooms at 122 George street are well worth a visit.

ANOTHER DUNEDIN EXHIBIT AT WEMBLEY. Included in the leather section at Ihe Wembley Exhibition is a fine showing by Messrs J. Clark, and Son, of Dowling street, Dunedin. It, is interesting to note that the name of ‘’Clark" has been associated with leather and leather goods in Dunedin since 1876. In that, year Mr John Clark, in conjunction with Messrs Reynolds and Hitchcock, established a leather manufacturing business under the title of Messrs ■ Reynolds. . Chirk, and Co. This partnership was suhserpieiiMj dissolved, and Mr Clark, under his own name, continued the manufacture of fancy leather goods as well as art and light leather work. Since ihe retirement of the founder seme years ago this branch of the business has been carried on by bis son. Air J. D. Clark. Among the special lines manufactured are all kinds of blocked leggings, which are universally popular. The process of blocking is a highlv technical one, requiring special knowledge and skill In the hands of a clever craftsman a legging is produced that fits perfectly and is the very acme of comfort.

The exhibit at Wembley, above referred to, included a splendid range of blocked leggings—a credit not only to the firm, _hut to the country of origin. Other lines manufactured by Messrs J. dark and Son are bogs, catles, belts, straps, wristlets, purses, satchels, wallers, document cases, cushions, mo sacs, tramping lings, game bags, scout belt, etc., etc. In addition. to manufacturing Messrs J. Clark ami Son have opened a show coofn at 5-9 Dow Imy street, Dunedin, where they have a large assortment of the above lines, and al=o leather for all purposes and of every description. including the well-known English sole leathers "Western Star” and “Rosohill,” also New Zealand leathers ol all kinds from heavy harness, saddlers', and bootmakers’ leathers, crop and hobble, to light and fancy leathers, Mich as " Nuart ” (Jazz), suede of all colours, roans, basil, liogskins, calfskins, chamois, etc., etc.

BRITISH EMPIRE EXHIBITION. WEMBLEY. LONDON. Messrs R. Brinsley and Co. (Ltd.), of this city, are being greatly complimented or. the excellence of their exhibit of “Champion” gas cookers at the great British Empire Exhibition, and Dunedin citizens will feel great satisfaction in the knowledge that the wares of a local firm of manufacturers can stand comparison with those of the older-established manufacturers throughout the Empire. Tho managing director of Messrs Edward Pennington (Ltd.). London, wrote muter date April 30, 1924:—"May we compliment you on the specimens of your manufactures" which are now on exhibition at the British Empire Exhibition, Wembley. The writer mud© a close examination of these yesterday. and w;as delighted with the excellent work, particularly with tho gas cookers, and this latter was exciting the interest of a number of sightseers. It is our intention to have a number of these New Zealand exhibits photographed individually, including your own, and we will send you a copy of the photograph at an early date, as this will no doubt bn of interest to you. We might add that, there is no line competitive of your own on exhibition iu the New Zealand pavilion. With compliments, etc.” The excellence of this firm’s stoves is well known throughout the dominion, and they are to he found not only in the home.s of the people, but also in largo public institutions. Our representative was shown a certificate, dated Juno 20, 1924, from the Otago Hospital Board, which reads as follow: —“This is to certify that ‘Champion’ gas cookers (large and small) have been Installed in the kitchens at tho Otago Benevolent Institution, and the services rendered bv such have been highly satisfactory in every way. The manager of the -institution reports that the stoves are excellent cookers, most economical and convenient, and a cpnsiderable saving is made in the cost of fuel consumption as compared with coal. There is great saving in labour and iiLo in ■ 'e*uliness bv reason of their use in place of ordinary coal ranges. The board have fell so satisfied with these gas cookers that, similar stoves now have !n?en installed in the Wakari Institution, where it is anticipated the same good services and economy will be obtained. John Jacobs, secretary.” Numerous other testimonials as to the usefulness and economy incidental to the using of the “Champion” stoves and ranges are on tho firm’s files, and the following telegram from Mr J. W. Collins, New Zealand Secretary of (ho Department of Industrie* and Commerce,, relative lo the Messrs T»i-io«lov’a exhibit ut the recent Auckland Exhibition is only on of many indlcn’ive that the firm are prepared to stand comparison at homo as well as abroad. It roads: “Vnnr exhibit does you great credit. Hope a.s result your enterprise will lead io increased business.

THE EMPIRE EXHIBITION. SAMPLES OF DUNEDIN BRASSFO ENDING. At the request of the Board of Trade, Messrs G. Mcthven and Co., Ltd., have prepared a range of domestic brass work and steam brass work for the Empire Exhibition which is to be held at London next year. The idea is to convey to those abroad the class and quality of brassfounding work that can be done in Dunedin The samples, which will be displayed in the New Zealand Pavilion, have been completed, and they present a most creditable display of local industry. There are some 27 pieces altogether, which are artistically arranged and mounted on a bed of plush, the whole being framed in golden oak. It was intended originally to display this exhibit in competition with the foremost English manufacturers, but, though this idea has since been abandoned, it. speaks volumes for tho enterprise and courage of Messrs Mcthven and Co. that they were prepared to send if, all the way to England on such conditions—especially when it is remembered that they are doing so entirely at their own expense and risk. The work is of a representative character, the most prominent pieces being nickelplated taps, of modern design, beautifully finished, nickel-plated towel rail, light find heavy valves used respectively for fitting up hot water cisterns and steam plants, a copper branch pipe for fire brigade use. and a display of the heavier braaswork used for heavv water supplies on farms and in factories. Trie oxhibit is possibly the mesi comprehensive that has over been attempted in New Zealand, and it will convey to those overseas some indication of the rapid progress made in local industries. Messrs G. Mothven and Co., Ltd., are to lie commanded upon their skill in manufacturing such a splendid exhibit, and for their enterprise in sending it abroad to popularise New Zealand progress. Ono expert in the Customs Department remarked when he sa.w tho exhibit, “T did not. think such beautiful work could be done in this country.”

MESSRS W. A. SCOn AND SONS. Perhaps it G justifiable to say that' file rno.4 unique exhibit sent from New Zealand to llie great Bririsli Empire Inhibition at, Wembley is au Anglo Special racing eyeie. ‘•Unique.’' inasmuch tw although inanufaet-ured 14,000 miles away from the celebrated cycle manufacturing centre. Coventry, ils manufacturers are confident that as regards durability, lightness, strength, finish, and general appearance it will compare favourably with the. best the wot Id h.a» so far prod'aeed. This Dunedin exhibit is richly enamelled in geranium red. artistically picked out with fancy blue peaks at lugs, and is gold lined. Experts fail to discern a blemish in (he workmanship of this cycle, and it, is certainly a. credit to New Zealand workmanship,, for it. is hard 10 conceive even in England anything in its line belter turned out. do be :n a position 10 manufacture such a cycle, d follows that, the linn of W. A. Scoit and Sons are equipped to undertake every description of cycle work, and are. probably, entitled to claim, as they do, that theirs is the only factory in Now’ Zealand w.iicn can do so in every detail. Ihe factory is a Iwo-storeved brick building at the- rear of their two well-known George street shop fronts and consists of two floors each 40ft wide and fOft in length. On these floors can he seen at any time an efficient staff turning out by the means of modern machinery and furnaces all the details involved in (he make-up of a bicycle, and it is a, Inn-v scene. Messrs W, A. Scott and Hons have been established in Dunedin since 1895, and arc now well known throughout the dominion lint only as manufacturers and repairers oi cycles, but also as suppliers to the trade of cycle accessories, which arc stocked in large quantities.. The splendid range of rusebikes ami motor cycles of leading makes which may always be seen from ibis lirm » shon windows speaks for itself, demons rating.' as it docs, that in respect to Hie .mes Messrs W. and A. Scott deal in they handle only in what their experience teaches them are the most dependable and efficient ot the world's production.