Bradken, based in New South Wales, Australia, has announced plans to expand its foundry in Amite, La. The project represents a capital investment of $18.1 million. The company says it hopes to complete the expansion in 18 months.
"Bradken's decision to expand its foundry is great news for Amite, Southeast Louisiana and our entire state," says Gov. Bobby Jindal. "This expansion underscores the confidence that major companies are placing in our workforce and in our business climate. We have made retaining and expanding Louisiana's existing businesses our top economic development priority since taking office in 2008, and Bradken's expansion is another example of our commitment to making Louisiana the best place in the world to find a great job and pursue a rewarding career."
Tom Armstrong, president and CEO of Bradken’s Engineered Products division, says, "This expansion of the Amite facility will enable Bradken to increase its capabilities and capacity to produce customized steel cast products and to continue to grow with our strong customer base.” He adds, “The expansion includes extending the foundry building and installing key manufacturing equipment, such as molding equipment, cranes and furnaces."
Armstrong says the plant’s existing workforce and the assistance and benefits provided by Louisiana Economic Development figured into the company’s decision to expand the Amite facility.
Major investments planned for the expansion include mixers, blast tool upgrades, a 50-ton crane used for moving large pieces of raw steel into the melting hoppers, heat-treatment capacity expansion and an expanded foundry bay and metal refining capabilities.
Bradken is a global supplier of differentiated consumable and capital products for international markets. The company operates 28 manufacturing and service facilities throughout Australia, New Zealand, Canada, China, the United States and United Kingdom.
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