The founders and employees of Mazzei Injector Company celebrated the organization's 40th anniversary with a look at the evolution from its humble beginnings in Angelo and Mary Mazzei's Bakersfield garage to its maturation into a world-renowned leader in fluid processing technology. Today, the company--still headed by Angelo Mazzei, who has been joined by his daughter Celia "Cece" Cobar as head of research and development--employs more than 28 people and manufactures venturi injectors and other specialized fluid handling equipment in Bakersfield.
"I think the single best attribute of Mazzei Injector, which has helped the company succeed for all these years, is the passion for excellence that Angelo has, and that has permeated throughout the company," said Geoff Whynot, president of Mazzei Injector Company, at a luncheon marking the anniversary of the company's establishment.
Venturi Principle
Mazzei, who grew up in the San Joaquin Valley and worked on his uncle's farm after graduating from Fresno State College, built his first injector to efficiently blend fertilizer with irrigation water from the pressurized supply lines feeding off the California Aqueduct. He tapped into the venturi principle, using a specially designed configuration that directed water to increase velocity through a chamber, creating a vacuum that pulled fertilizer into the system and mixed it with the flowing water. With no moving parts and powered by a minimal differential pressure of the water in the line, the system was highly efficient and almost foolproof. Mazzei received his first patent, and founded the company with Mary, in 1978.
Since its start in agriculture 40 years ago, Mazzei injectors have become highly sought after for fluid processing solutions in a wide range of industries. Winemakers use Mazzei injectors to improve yeast growth during fermentation of their wines. Utilities use them to more efficiently purify drinking water. Food companies and industrial customers use them to reduce odors in their wastewater. Hot tub makers place small Mazzei injectors in their systems to blend ozone into the water for sanitation. And farmers are still using Mazzei injectors to precisely manage fertilizers and crop protection products in irrigation water, and, increasingly, to aerate the root zone. Other Mazzei inventions have further enhanced the efficiency of gas/liquid mixing, which has long challenged engineers.
"For 40 years, Angelo has built more than a company, he's built a culture--a culture of innovation, a culture of collaboration, a culture of service," said Jim Lauria, vice president of sales and marketing.
Collaboration and Commitment
The Mazzei team has collaborated closely with scientists, farmers, industrial engineers and other experts to advance water treatment. The company has been a strong supporter of Fresno State's Center for Irrigation Technology, a thought leader in water management that is respected worldwide. That long partnership illustrates the spirit of innovation and collaboration that has marked the company's history, said Lauria.
The family and company are also deeply dedicated to service to customers, industries, educators, students, and to their community, Lauria added. Angelo Mazzei has donated countless hours as a volunteer for industry organizations, civic groups and the Foundation board of California State University, Bakersfield. "The past 40 years have been an exciting experience that has given me the opportunity to work with many outstanding people to grow the company," said Angelo. "I'm pleased to see the company positioned for future innovations and positive growth."
