Illini Castings LLC, an affiliate of the metal recycling firm Mervis Industries, has opened a location in Danville, Ill.
The company specializes in reconditioning railroad castings. It is expected to employ up to 30 people when fully operational.
The collaboration between Mervis Industries and Illini Castings LLC brings together two companies committed to reuse and recycling.
“We are extremely pleased to announce the joint venture with John and the group from Illini Castings,” said Adam Mervis, president of Mervis Industries. “Their commitment to quality workmanship and reuse of existing materials fits with the long-standing mission of Mervis Industries.”
Three principals with Illini Castings – John Widmer, President; Ray Johnson, VP and GM; and Mike Marriott, QA-safety manager – bring a combined 75 years of experience in the railroad casting and refurbishing industry.
“Customers will realize a cost savings by utilizing refurbished parts,” said Widmer. “An additional benefit for customers is access to refurbished parts that are no longer in production, particularly side frames and bolsters.”
Most of the railroad parts that Illini Castings will refurbish come from scrap yards or derailment sites. Illini Castings will provide the heat treating facility for couplers and yokes that is not readily available due to the specialized equipment and training required to run the furnace. The company will recondition the material and certify that refurbished parts meet stringent quality assurance requirements.
The finished product will be sold to Class One railroads, short lines and other railroad suppliers.