12/8/2010
NEWS BRIEFS
Rail Fastener Producer Amsted Eyes New U.S. Production
Fastener and undercarriage rail components manufacturer Amsted Rail may reopen its Alabama wheel manufacturing facility in Jefferson County after nearly a decade of idling.
“The market for railroad wheels in North America has always been cyclical but we are committed to being prepared for the anticipated upturn in demand stemming from projected increases in new freight car builds and rail traffic volumes over the next few years,” said Amsted Rail President John Wories.
“This commitment towards increasing our capacity would ensure that Amsted Rail is prepared to support our long term strategic customers as business volumes return,” said William O’Donnell, Senior Sales and Marketing VP for Amsted Rail.
Pending successful completion of negotiations with local economic development authorities, the facility, last used in 2001, would be upgraded with the latest technology and made available for production when the market returns.
If activated, the plant would provide jobs for hundreds of employees located in the Birmingham area providing both direct and indirect support of the facilities.
The announcement comes months after Amsted Rail formed a joint venture with Ellcon National, enabling heavy haul railcar customers to purchase complete systems with a wider range of components from a single supplier.
The venture was intended to enhance railcar performance and increase the life cycle savings of an Amsted Rail –Ellcon National equipped railcar. The deal will develop the technical strengths and global footprint of both companies and enhance the global heavy haul railway industry.
Amsted Rail makes fasteners and other undercarriage railcar components for heavy haul freight railcars. Web: amstedrail.com ©2010 GlobalFastenerNews.com
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