Case Study: High-Stakes Coating for Auto Glass Tools — Why A.N. Designs Trusts Precision Dip Coating for Long-Term Solutions
Client: Robert Nilsson, Owner, A.N. Designs / UltraWiz Auto Glass
Industry: Auto Glass Tools and Manufacturing
Partnership Length: 15+ Years
The Challenge: Coating Precision Blades Without Compromising Automotive Paint
In the world of auto glass tools, there’s no room for error. When the tools being produced come in contact with high-value surfaces like vehicle paint, even the smallest flaw in the coating can cause costly damage.
That’s the challenge that led Robert Nilsson, owner of A.N. Designs, to partner with Precision Dip Coating.
“We needed to figure out how to coat a blade properly. If they’re coated improperly, they can scratch the paint—and that’s very expensive,” said Robert.
From masking techniques to selecting the right finish, Precision Dip Coating worked side-by-side with UltraWiz to ensure their tools delivered the safety and quality their customers expect.
Why Precision Dip Coating?
Robert has worked with Precision Dip Coating for over 15 years—long before the company moved to its current Waterbury location. And from the very beginning, it’s been more than a service provider relationship. It’s been a true collaboration.
“I wasn’t sure how to do it,” he said. “But I knew they had the ability.”
Robert credits Gary at PDC as an “incredibly smart problem solver” who brings creativity and persistence to every challenge. Rather than offering cookie-cutter solutions, the team works closely with A.N. Designs to troubleshoot, prototype, and adapt until the perfect process is found.
A Relationship Built on Trust and Shared Values
For Robert, Precision Dip Coating stands out in two ways: quality and personal connection.
“Our products are quality-first. We’re not chasing volume—we want to get it right,” he explains. “Of course, we need to be careful with pricing, but PDC is a fair-price place. Quality is more important, and their pricing is fair in comparison to everything that’s out there.”
But what really sets Precision Dip Coating apart?
“Other than my one other big vendor, I’ve never met a company that’s so personal. I walk in and I know everyone. Everyone is super polite, concerned about everything, and they take the time to understand your role,” Robert said.
The team doesn’t just coat parts—they get to know the people and the purpose behind the products. That level of connection builds trust, collaboration, and long-term success.
Looking Ahead: Innovating Together
The relationship between A.N. Designs and Precision Dip Coating isn’t static. As Robert says, “We’re always working on new things and new ways to do the coating. Other companies will look at your job and move on. Gary continues to work with us on new things and find new processes.”
Knowing that the team at Precision Dip Coating is thinking about your project, even when you’re not in the room—that’s something Robert doesn’t take for granted.
If you’re producing high-precision, high-risk components where coatings can make or break performance—or where reputation is on the line—Precision Dip Coating brings the kind of personal, quality-focused, and problem-solving mindset that makes all the difference.
Let’s explore how our Plastisol, Powder, or Halar Coating solutions can protect your next innovation.
