Every year, during the last week of July and the first week of August, Willman Industries pauses iron pouring to focus on iron foundry maintenance projects and capital improvements. This annual shutdown allows us to reinvest in our people, our equipment, and our future.
Project Overview
In 2025, we invested more than $500,000 in critical projects with mechanical and electrical contractors. These upgrades ensure that Willman Industries remains a leader in quality, safety, and compliance.
Equipment and Facility Upgrades
This year’s foundry equipment upgrades included:
- Installation of a new greensand conveyor
- Dust collection improvements to enhance air quality and workplace safety
- Replacement of 9,000 square feet of concrete to improve operations and traffic flow
- Application of 30 gallons of fresh paint for improved facility conditions
- Completion of a $1.2 million power supply upgrade on our third 9-ton furnace
This marks the final stage of a 3-year, $5 million project modernizing all three of our furnaces.
Industry Context & Market Trends
The iron foundry industry continues to face significant challenges. In the last two years alone, six domestic iron foundries have shut down, primarily due to lack of profitability and inability to make required reinvestments.
- According to FoundryMag, rising costs and regulatory compliance pressures have accelerated closures across the U.S.
- Environmental and safety regulations from the DNR, EPA, and OSHA demand ongoing investment in cleaner, safer operations.
Willman Industries remains committed to domestic iron foundry compliance, ensuring we not only meet but exceed these standards.
Commitment to Safety & Growth
While many foundries have closed their doors, Willman Industries stands apart by continually investing in our future. Our philosophy is simple:
“Staying viable as a domestic foundry requires significant ongoing investment — and Willman Industries is committed to being Safe, Solid and Growing.” — Harold Hunter, VP Sales & Marketing
By maintaining a strong focus on iron foundry maintenance projects, proactive foundry equipment upgrades, and strict adherence to domestic iron foundry compliance, we position ourselves for long-term success.
Learn More
Interested in learning how Willman Industries’ investments improve quality, safety, and reliability for our customers?