The Client

Millennium Forms specializes in creating stunning architectural facades using stainless steel interlocking wall panel systems and tiles for commercial buildings. Their innovative electromechanical coloring process — which uses no dyes or pigments — produces remarkable visual effects that shift with changing light, weather, and viewing angles.

The Challenge

When Millennium Forms planned to expand beyond their standard stamped tiles into custom panel systems, they faced multiple complex challenges:

• Transitioning from uniform tiles to variable-profile panels in diverse sizes and gauges
• Scaling production runs from hundreds to potentially 10,000 parts while maintaining precise quality standards
• Meeting unique specifications, custom engineering, and exacting fabrication requirements for each project

Through a fortuitous recommendation from their accountant, they discovered Mathison Manufacturing. From the initial plant tour, Millennium Forms recognized Mathison's meticulous attention to detail — exactly what they needed for their architectural panels.

The Solution

Collaborative Engineering

The partnership began with hands-on collaboration. Engineers from both companies worked side-by-side at the brake press, creating mockups that would later prove invaluable in Millennium Forms' sales process with architects. This collaborative approach led to Mathison becoming Millenium Forms’ trusted source for all their fabrication drawings.

Precision Manufacturing

Each project showcases Mathison's expertise through unique challenges:

• Complex Color Patterns: For a Chicago community center, panels were laser-cut and arranged like playing cards to create seemingly random patterns with colors ranging from gold to burgundy
• Custom Angular Work: Projects often require "freehanding" or "air bending" techniques where operators must manually calculate, scribe, and form panels to precise angles — sometimes as specific as 15 or 30 degrees
• Position-Specific Manufacturing: For certain projects, each panel is engineered for a single location on the building, requiring meticulous organization and labeling systems

Quality Assurance and Innovation

The partnership thrives through:

• Comprehensive quality control throughout the manufacturing process
• Thoughtful packaging design to protect panels during transport and outdoor storage
• Clear labeling systems that facilitate efficient installation
• Regular post-manufacturing reviews to optimize processes
• Cross-team collaboration at multiple organizational levels
• On-site visits during production to enhance understanding

The result? Mathison Manufacturing has become Millennium Forms' exclusive panel system provider, a partnership built on unwavering quality delivery, safeguarded intellectual property, dependably-met deadlines, and complete commitment to continuous process improvement.

Ready to elevate your architectural manufacturing capabilities? Contact our specialized team at 262-542-7296 to discuss your unique requirements.