Ahlstrom says that this move is to meet growing demand for its products, especially in the wind energy market.
The expansion project is expected to cost approximately €7 million.
The capacity increase at its Bishopsville, South Carolina, facility will be implemented in two phases. In the first stage Ahlstrom will invest around €3 million in 2008 and install new machinery at the facility. Another €4 million will be invested in the second phase of the project in 2009-2011, which will include new production lines.
The Bishopsville plant started operations in late 2006 and produces speciality reinforcements primarily for the wind energy, marine and transporation markets. The facility currently serves both the North and South American markets and will also support the expansion of Ahlstrom’s glass nonwovens production into Asia.
