ST. CHARLES, IL — Dukane, a leader in plastic welding, was recognized by the U.S. Embassy in Czech Republic for their efforts to help during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company has also been designated a critical manufacturer.

The Dukane team in Prague, Czech Republic is utilizing Dukane’s ultrasonic equipment to manufacture more than 10,000 masks that are being donated to the most at need organizations. The masks have been donated to hospitals, emergency rooms, first responders, oncology centers, nursing homes and fire stations.

The team is making the masks from medical grade, non-woven material that is being donated by an anonymous source. The Dukane team in Prague are working after their shifts, and on weekends to continue to make these masks to help their community. To ensure there is no spread of the virus, no outside volunteers are able to help, therefore the families of Dukane team members are assisting to try and keep up with demand.

Ambassador King and Foreign Minister Petricek had a virtual visit with Dukane and expressed their appreciation. The Dukane team was honored to be recognized for their contribution to fight COVID-19.

“Our production is only a fraction of what automated machines are capable of, however, we are expanding lines and evolving our process,” says General Manager of Dukane Czech Republic, Brian Yamato. “I work with some very clever and hardworking folks! Now is the time for us all to do what we can for others. I’m really proud of my Dukane family for volunteering.”

Dukane, a worldwide leader in plastic welding, is continuing production of plastic welding and joining equipment as an essential manufacturer.

Dukane is involved in critical manufacturing and is a vital link in the supply chain to other critical manufacturers. This means that Dukane and their employees are recognized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as essential to critical infrastructure during COVID-19 response.

Dukane makes equipment necessary to the manufacturing of personal protective equipment for healthcare workers, medical devices, communication devices, food processing and packaging, and energy storage. Dukane is currently working on multiple projects around the world with manufacturers of personal protective equipment, ventilators and diagnostics kits to support the ongoing fight with COVID-19.