The Legacy Machine: The Manual Lathe in Our Lobby

At K&B Industries, we celebrate the people and tools that shaped our journey.

Displayed proudly in our lobby, the Clausing Colchester 15 manual "engine" lathe is more than a machine, it’s a symbol of our humble beginnings and enduring commitment to excellence. 

A Humble Beginning 

In 1972, our founder, Kenny Sr., purchased the Clausing Colchester 15 as a "tinker" tool to craft prototypes for customers. Using a borrowed winch truck, he hauled it into his garage, unaware it would spark a legacy. By 1974, seeing its potential, Kenny Sr. partnered with a colleague to establish K&B Machine Works, moving the lathe to a small facility alongside other equipment. This modest machine laid the foundation for what would become K&B Industries. 

"Without this lathe, I couldn’t have met our customers’ needs," Kenny Sr. recalls. "I handled everything, accounting, sales, management, even deliveries. This machine was the heart of our growth." 

Shaping a Culture of Service 

In the early days of the oil and gas industry in Houma, Louisiana, competition was scarce, but customer expectations were high. Kenny Sr.’s relentless dedication to on-time delivery and quality service defined K&B’s culture. Long hours and hands-on effort ensured customers’ needs were met, forging a commitment to excellence that remains our cornerstone today. 

Operation and Craftsmanship 

Unlike modern CNC machines, the Clausing Colchester 15 demanded skilled operators and daily maintenance, including lubrication and cleaning. Capable of producing 40–50 parts per shift, it required machinists to master its manual processes. Doug Hemstreet, VP of Operations, who began as a machinist in 1993, remembers it fondly: "This was one of the first machines I worked on. It was reliable, built to last, and I crafted thousands of parts on it." 

Evolution of Technology 

While today’s CNC lathes rely on software and precision programming, the Clausing Colchester 15 represents a bygone era of manual craftsmanship. "This machine embodies the ‘Plus Factor’ we cherish at K&B," Doug explains. "Though retired since 1995, it could still produce quality parts if powered up today." Modern machines now incorporate advanced safety features and rigorous quality controls to meet the oil and gas industry’s stringent standards, a far cry from the gravity-held parts of the past. 

A Tribute to Legacy 

Kenny Sr. marvels at the ingenuity the lathe inspired, recalling how he crafted custom tools and parts, often without blueprints, to meet customer demands. As technology advanced, the lathe was retired to a corner of the shop. In a heartfelt tribute, Kenny Jr. had it refurbished by the original manufacturer and placed it in our lobby as a surprise for his father. Today, it stands as a testament to K&B’s roots. 

"Anyone can use a tool, but it’s what you create with it that matters," Doug reflects. "Kenny Sr.’s unwavering commitment to exceptional service and quality continues to guide our daily pursuit of excellence." 

The Machine That Started It All

Kenny Sr. calls it “the machine that shaped K&B Industries.” The Clausing Colchester 15 lathe may seem like a common tool in the oil and gas industry, but for him, it was much more. This small, affordable machine enabled him to build a loyal customer base, establish a culture of service, and ultimately launch a thriving company. 

Its true significance lies not just in the work it performed, but in the dedication and innovation it inspired.

As Kenny Sr. reflects: “Behind every successful businessman is a hard-working woman. To Kate, my wife, I want to thank you for all of the meals on wheels you brought to me day after day as I worked long hours to build the business. “ 

Today, displayed in our lobby, the Clausing Colchester 15 stands as more than just a relic. It is a symbol of ingenuity, perseverance, and the legacy of building something extraordinary from humble beginnings.