Gateway Technical College (GTC) is helping shape the workforce of tomorrow with its Smart Factory lab located at the SC Johnson Integrated Manufacturing and Engineering Technology (iMET) Center in Sturtevant, Wisconsin. As the first publicly funded technical college in the United States, GTC continues to lead by preparing students with the skills needed for Industry 4.0.

This advanced lab simulates a real-world production line where students gain hands-on experience in “lights out” manufacturing, automation, and data analytics. Learners work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), industrial controllers, and smart sensors to understand how modern factories operate. By integrating connectivity and data analysis, the lab demonstrates how to unlock siloed information and apply it to real-world decision-making.

One of the lab’s most exciting features is its development of a digital twin—a virtual replica of the physical environment that collects and processes real-time data from robotics, machinery, and sensors. This allows students to explore artificial intelligence, advanced automation, and smart technologies that are rapidly transforming the manufacturing industry. By engaging with this innovative environment, students are better prepared to become the highly skilled employees industry partners need today and in the future.

Solid–Fluid Adsorption Principles for Engineering Labs

Hands-On Solid–Fluid Interaction Experiments

Adsorption plays a vital role in chemical engineering and industrial applications, from gas purification and pollution control to water treatment and chemical recovery. Pignat’s adsorption training units enable students to study surface phenomena, adsorption isotherms, and regeneration techniques.

These versatile systems demonstrate the behavior of gases and liquids when interacting with solid surfaces, offering real-world insight into adsorption processes that industries rely on daily.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Understand adsorption isotherms and kinetics
• Examine breakthrough curves and column design
• Study regeneration and reuse of adsorbents
• Apply adsorption theory to environmental and industrial challenges

Train Students in Industrial-Scale Distillation Concepts

From Classroom to Industry: Distillation Education

Distillation is one of the most common and important separation methods in the chemical process industry. Pignat’s distillation training systems bring industrial operations into the classroom, teaching fractional distillation, column efficiency, and reflux control.

These systems allow students to analyze mixtures, understand boiling point differences, and optimize process conditions—all while reinforcing real-world chemical engineering skills.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Perform simple and fractional distillation experiments
• Examine column efficiency and operating parameters
• Understand reflux and product purity control
• Apply separation principles to multi-component systems

Teach Industrial Evaporation in the Lab

Evaporation Experiments for Chemical Engineering Education

Evaporation is widely used in chemical, food, and environmental industries to concentrate solutions and recover solvents. Pignat’s evaporation training units provide hands-on learning of heat transfer, phase change, and energy efficiency.

These systems allow students to evaluate operating conditions and optimize processes, preparing them for practical applications in industrial environments.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Understand evaporation principles and heat transfer
• Study concentration and solvent recovery techniques
• Explore the role of energy efficiency in evaporation systems
• Connect theoretical concepts with real-world industrial practice