In the latest episode of “Road to AAPEX,” WIX Filters gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at its manufacturing process and highlights the brand’s rich history in oil filtration. Filmed at WIX’s Gastonia, North Carolina, facility, the episode dives into the evolution of oil filters from the early 20th Century to modern times. Prior to 1923, engines either had no oil filters or used ineffective mesh screens. The introduction of canister-type filters in the 1920s and the development of the spin-on oil filter in the 1950s revolutionized engine maintenance.
WIX Filters, the pioneer behind the spin-on oil filter, now produces a wide range of filtration products, from lawnmower filters to those used in locomotives. This episode features a tour of WIX’s manufacturing plant, where the intricate process of creating oil filters is detailed, from pleating the filter media to assembling and testing the final product. The facility employs around 600 people and emphasizes quality control at every step to ensure the filters meet industry standards.
Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Daryl Benton, discusses WIX’s commitment to innovation, particularly in response to the evolving automotive landscape, including electric vehicles (EVs). WIX is adapting by developing products for the unique needs of EVs, such as cabin air filters and transmission fluid filters.
The episode also touches on WIX’s commitment to sustainability, with efforts to make its plants zero-landfill.
The company’s legacy in motorsports, particularly NASCAR and IndyCar, is also highlighted, showcasing WIX’s role in pushing the boundaries of filtration technology in high-performance environments. This glimpse into WIX’s operations underscores its role as a leader in the automotive aftermarket industry.
Read More: A Look at Oil Filtration