The Economy

Engine Valve Manufacturer Expanding in South Carolina

June 14, 2010

New equipment will increase plant capacity and efficiency.

U.S. Engine Valve Co. plans to expand its operations in Westminster, S.C.

The company, which was launched in 1987 as a joint venture between Eaton Corp. and Nittan Valve Co. Ltd. of Japan, expects to invest $18 million over the next five years and create 10 new jobs, according to the South Carolina Department of Commerce.

This expansion will help us meet growing demand for our automotive valves and better serve our customers, said Robert Griffin, plant manager for U.S. Engine Valve Co. We appreciate all the support we have received from state and local officials.

As part of the expansion, the company will upgrade its manufacturing facility with new equipment, allowing U.S. Engine Valve to increase the plants capacity and efficiency as well as improve product quality, according to the South Carolina Department of Commerce.

The expansion will be completed in phases, with the first part expected to be in place late this year.

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.