From concept to final product, the process of designing high performing, efficient cookstoves involves a complicated dance between many industries, techniques, and resources. Partnerships with industry experts are an essential component to BDL’s R&D model, and we are so grateful for the long working relationships we have with individuals, organizations and companies around the world. Our first feature example is Kevin Biller of the Powder Coating Research Group.

            In 2012, as Burn Design Lab was developing our flagship cookstove designs, our team of engineers needed help incorporating a technique called Powder Coating into the stove manufacturing process. The main body of the stove is plain carbon steel that needs painting to prevent it from rusting. Powder coating is the preferred method for both aesthetics and durability. Unfortunately, no one in-house was knowledgeable about the process at the time.

            Through an association called the Powder Coating Institute, Paul Means (then BDL’s Research & Testing Manager) connected with Kevin Biller, owner and CEO of Powder Coating Research Group. Kevin’s technical expertise and consultations during the development of the early stove designs were invaluable to the team. Kevin even spent a week in Kenya to assist the BURN Manufacturing team members with commissioning an initial operation of powder coating in the Kenya factory. Kevin has continued to provide technical support to both BDL and BURN Manufacturing over the past 8 year. In addition to the technical support, Kevin’s company, the Powder Coating Research Group, recently became monthly financial supporters of Burn Design Lab.  We are so grateful for his support, and for his contributions to life-saving clean cookstoves.