Monday, October 13, 2025
Con-Vey, a leader in automated systems for the engineered wood products industry, has been honoured with the prestigious Engineered Wood Technology Association (EWTA) Innovation of the Year Award for its groundbreaking patent-pending Edge-Damming System. This innovation, developed in collaboration with RoyOMartin and Argos Solutions, was announced on October 6 at the EWTA Info Fair held in Phoenix, Arizona.
The Edge-Damming System marks a significant advancement in automated panel repair, specifically in the plywood production sector. This innovative technology is the first to offer a solution capable of repairing cut-to-size plywood panels in continuous flow, transforming the industry’s approach to production efficiency. Unlike traditional methods, Con-Vey’s Edge-Damming System uses a Teflon-coated steel belt to precisely seal routed edges and employs inductive heating to cure repairs in-line. This cutting-edge system not only minimizes waste and reduces labour costs but also maintains high production speeds while ensuring cleaner and more consistent results.
“This system has enabled us to reduce costs, lower turnover, and improve product grades,” said Jeremy Burford, Vice President of Plywood at RoyOMartin, whose team worked closely with Con-Vey throughout the development process. “The project has been an enormous success, and the results speak for themselves.”
The EWTA Innovation of the Year Award is a recognition of Con-Vey’s relentless drive for technological advancement and the company’s continuous efforts to push the boundaries of innovation in the engineered wood industry. The success of the Edge-Damming System represents a triumph of creative problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance—a philosophy deeply ingrained in Con-Vey’s culture since its founding in 1946.
Jeremy Goebel, Con-Vey’s President, shared his thoughts on the project: “At first, this project seemed almost impossible. But that’s the essence of innovation—taking on a challenge no one has tackled before, and pushing through setbacks until success is achieved. Our team embraced that challenge, and together we created something truly unique.”
The impact of the Edge-Damming System has already inspired further investment, with RoyOMartin placing an order for a second edge-damming line, which is currently undergoing final testing. This investment highlights the system’s effectiveness and the growing demand for such innovative solutions in the engineered wood products industry.
Con-Vey’s success with the Edge-Damming System is a testament to the company’s commitment to collaboration and curiosity. Dave Larecy, CEO of Con-Vey, expressed his gratitude for the recognition: “We are honoured by this award, which is a testament not only to our talented engineers and partners but to the incredible possibilities that emerge when innovation is driven by teamwork and perseverance.”
As the engineered wood products industry continues to evolve, Con-Vey remains at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of automated systems and advancing sustainable production methods. With a history of continuous improvement and technological breakthroughs, the company is well-positioned to drive future advancements in the industry.
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Tags: automated systems, Con-Vey, Edge-Damming System, EWTA Innovation of the Year, plywood repair
