ESAB Opens New SC Manufacturing Facility

ESAB Welding and Cutting Products, based in Florence, S.C.,  has opened a manufacturing facility in Union County, S.C. The 260,000-square-foot plant is ESAB’s production site for manufacturing welding wires.

Daniel Young of the South Carolina Department of Commerce, state and local lawmakers, and Union County dignitaries were on hand to celebrate the opening, which brings 101 new jobs to South Carolina.

“We believe that we will continue to see steady growth in the North American market, and this move to Union County represents an increase in production capacity and the transfer of lines that were being manufactured overseas,” says Sue Bartholomew, ESAB global marketing director. “ESAB remains committed to consistent delivery of our premium-quality wires and to leading the industry in technology and support service.”

This manufacturing location will house the production of ESAB’s high-performance MIG and submerged arc welding wires. Two new production lines of the company’s AristoRod brand and copper-coated wires also will be housed at the new facility.

While the facility was originally built in the 1970’s, ESAB invested millions of dollars to completely re-fit the building. New power distribution, piping and a complete fume collection system were among the improvements, the company says. The fire suppression infrastructure was upgraded, and the office has been remodeled and equipped with new furnishings. New lab equipment and new material handling equipment were installed, and the entire interior was given a fresh coat of paint.

“Thanks to the support of Governor Nikki Haley and her office, the South Carolina Department of Commerce, and the people of Union County, ESAB has opened this multi-million dollar facility,” said Lanny Pickens, vice president of operations for ESAB North America. “The Midway Facility has created 101 new jobs here, in addition to the investment in the community resulting from our complete upgrade of the site.”

Nineteen of the manufacturing lead operators completed a 12-week training program at ESAB facilities around the globe.

ESAB is a manufacturer of welding and cutting equipment and welding filler metals.