ECKA Granules of America recently announced that it has committed $12 million to invest in a new manufacturing operation that will create 40 jobs in Orangeburg, S.C. The new facility will produce non-ferrous metal powder and particulates, as well as specialty products for the powder metallurgical and other technical applications.

ECKA Granules has purchased the land and existing plant facilities formerly used by Federal Mogul Power Train. The facility is being upgraded for the production of world class powder and particulate products for the U.S., Canada and Latin American markets.

Production will encompass products from all three of the core business units, including Red Metals (copper based materials), Aluminum and Magnesium. ECKA uses state-of-the-art technologies and process knowledge to meet the growing demands of its customer base in the American market, which is generally seen as the most dynamic and innovative in the world in many key applications.

“This move is a significant investment into the American market and is part of our strategy to improve service to our U.S. and regional customers and meet their growing needs,” said Gert Rohrseitz, Global President and CEO of ECKA Granulate GmbH & Co. KG, the German parent company. “After searching the U.S. extensively for locations, we chose Orangeburg as the preferred location based on the pro-business approach of the local and state governments, as well as logistical and work force advantages offered by the region.”

ECKA Granules is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of non-ferrous metal powders, with 18 production units around the globe. The company has more than 33 sales offices and 15 production facilities throughout the world.