Additive manufacturer Vanderbilt Chemicals will move chemical production from its Bethel, Conn., location to its newly upgraded plant in Murray, Ky., by the end of 2014.
Based in Norwalk, Conn., the wholly-owned subsidiary of R.T. Vanderbilt Holding Co., will transfer all production of specialty chemical additives for oils and greases to Murray following a $30 million expansion project that will be completed by the end of this year. The company will maintain land-use permits and continue operating a pilot plant and laboratory in Bethel, but will close the doors of its production facility there, Vanderbilt Chemicals President Ken Kelly told Lube Report.
We do not expect any interruption in service or impact on our customers, Kelly said in a recent press release. While we regret having to make this decision, consolidating our commercial production of chemicals in Murray will enhance our efficiency and provide growth opportunities for the future.
Some of the chemical makers key products are antioxidants for the lubricants industry such as Molyvan, a friction reducer and extreme-pressure and anti-wear agent; Vanlube, a tackifier for use in industrial oils and greases; and Vanchem, a multipurpose alkaline cleaner.
In addition to its lubricants additive products, the company also makes rubber and plastic additives, as well as chemicals for building materials and for the coating, paint, pharmaceutical and personal care industries. Its portfolio also includes industrial preservatives, metal deactivators, friction reducers, chemical intermediates and rust inhibitors.