Apricus, a designer and manufacturer of solar hot water and hydronic heating products, was looking to form a partnership with an American company to produce a solar collector that could absorb thermal energy from the sun and convert it into heat for hot water, heating, and industrial processes.  Apricus contacted a number of large companies, but was initially unable to find a firm that could manufacture their design.

Then, Apricus contacted Engineering Specialties Inc., a manufacturer of metal stamping, mechanical assemblies, and other custom component parts.  Located in North Branford, Connecticut, the company launched in 1990 and now has 20 employees.  “We jumped at the opportunity,” said Ronald Delfini, the company's president.

Nigel Ruddell, vice president of Apricus, said, "We wanted someone local so we could grow the product together."  Engineering Specialties proved an excellent fit, and the two companies formed a joint venture.

Ruddell and Delfini say the result is their AP-30C solar collector.  61% of it is made in North Branford, including all the stainless steel parts.

To qualify under the “Buy American” act, at least 50 percent of the product must be made in the U.S.  Thus, the AP-30C is now an option under Buy America preferences, and, according to Ruddell, has already been awarded several government contracts.

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