November 1, 2006

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Thermal Components Company Sets Up Shop in China


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Thermal Components Company Sets Up Shop in China

Shana Leonard

watlow_lg.jpgTo better serve its Asia-based customers, a company specializing in thermal control products has opened the doors to a new facility located in Shanghai, China. Watlow (St. Louis) feted the 80,000-sq-ft facility with a grand opening ceremony in October; however, the plant has actually been functional since August, when the firm completed its first customer delivery.

"Watlow built this new facility to support the local market," says John Gross, director of operations. "Watlow recognizes China as a dominant player in the world market and is committed to serving the region. We feel it is an important step in our customers' growth of their business in Asia."

The plant will initially focus on the manufacture of tubular heaters, which the firm felt were the best fit for current market needs in China, according to Gross. Over time, however, the facility will expand its capabilities to output additional product lines based on local demand. In addition to tubular heaters, the company also manufactures such thermal products for the medical market as IV systems, fluid-warming and hypothermia prevention systems, and wound and respiratory therapy equipment.

"The plant will use the same manufacturing processes as our facilities in the United States and will be supported by an Asian application and design center," says Gross. "The primary purpose of the plant is to respond to our customers' needs in Asia in a timelier manner. We will also use the plant to supply high-volume products to customers in the United States."

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