Recently I've had the pleasure of working with HUB Consolidated who built the equipment for our completely renovated hot shop at Greenfield Village. I have found my experience with HUB Consolidated and John Chiles to be very positive. The equipment designs made by HUB are well thought out, extremely durable and easy to maintain, as well as extraordinarily efficient.
Prior to our rebuild, we had been using a pair
of HUB MU 100 furnaces that were custom built for our space. We used these furnaces for 5 years. As the studio grew, it became apparent that we needed larger furnaces. When the time came to upgrade, the decision to stay with HUB was easy. Through those 5 years each furnace was charged just about every other day, and though they were both quite literally used and abused in their tenure here, they are still operating, as good as new, at another local production facility; a true testament to the quality and durability of the HUB furnace.
Another point worth mentioning is the excellent tech support that HUB provides. It is clear that John takes pride in his work and is sincerely committed to backing the equipment that he builds, as well
as supporting the people that use it. He is always available to answer my questions and to help trouble shoot if things come up. John was also very good about designing and building custom and unusual equipment to suit our specific functions and specifications. I would strongly recommend the services of HUB Consolidated to anyone considering building or upgrading a glass studio. (May, 2006)
Jeff Mack
Master Glassblower/Glass Shop Manager
Greenfield Village at the Henry Ford Museum
Dearborn, Michigan
John, you are the best! I couldn't be happier with the quality of my equipment and the unbelievable service after the sale. There has not been a question or a problem that you were not able to diagnose and treat over the phone. You have always been available and patient and for that I am truly thankful! Everything has been rock-solid and in working order since HUB built and installed the hot shop at More Fire in 2000. (May, 2006)
Elizabeth Lyons
More Fire Glass Studio
Rochester, New York
I guess this is mostly a thank you note. Thanks for the hood design! I like the furnace door! I like the pipe warmer! I love the furnace! I’m happy with everything you did. Thanks!! Everything works great.
Ed Branson
Ed Branson Blown Glass
Ashfield, Massachusetts
I have a shop full of Hub’s equipment.
It is efficient, practical, rugged and reliable. I couldn’t
make my work without it. Thanks! (May, 2004)
Sam Stang
Augusta Glass Studio
Augusta, Missouri
Outstanding service and support for the furnace installation and first light up. And when I needed to replace the crucible, it was the same story. John Chiles said he’d be available anytime for any questions or advice and he is; this is personal service at its best. The MU 200 glass furnace has been wonderful. Easy to load cullet, easy to gather glass, easy to maintain and the electronics keep the temperature where I want it as long as I want it; running this furnace has really been “automatic”. Also, can’t say enough about the safety controls and the peace of mind they provide. The glory hole was rebuilt by HUB over the summer with a new lining, doors, electronics and safety controls. It lights easily, comes up to temperature rapidly, and performs very well. It’s a dream to use and run.
I can’t say enough about the service and technical
support. I can call at anytime and get the answer I need. John is super patient, offers great advice, and has solved every problem that I have had. I always get a quick response on emails and if I leave a phone message, I know I will get a return call soon after. I can’t imagine using or purchasing any other equipment than HUB's. (May, 2004)
Kevin Pearson
The Prairie School
Racine,Wisconsin
Just wanted to say thanks for the excellent service and products you have provided us with over the past several months. You were all helpful and supportive when we needed it the most. I think we are a great example of how your plans can provide a bunch of rookies with a fantastic studio. We look forward to doing more business with you in the future. Any time I can help convince someone to buy your products, I would be happy to. Thanks again! (October, 2003)
Conor Gavan
Anchor Bend Glassworks
Newport, Rhode Island
This November marks one year of hot glass and many dreams come true. It couldn’t have been possible without your professional expertise and vision. Thanks for the great furnace & G-hole—and everything else. Everything works great. (November, 2003)
