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In 1915, an engineer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, saw the need for improved heating methods with industrial applications. Engineer Edwin L. Wiegand was able to develop an innovative process for electric heating and patent it. Working from a small Pittsburgh location at first, he next worked on a strip heater, which he was able to successfully market. It would serve as a precursor to the household irons commonly used for clothes today. With Wiegand's expertise as the foundation, the business now known as Chromalox was formally incorporated two years later. Growth Within ten years, the company's success allowed it to hire 100 employees, also moving to a full-size plant. Rapid growth continued across the subsequent decades with the development of new products and processes. This ongoing expansion involved working with nuclear facilities and supplying pressurizer heaters. With so much demand, additional facilities were built in France and England. Worldwide sales of heating equipment designed by Chromalox increased, and new business contacts were developed in Asia. These complemented the already existing distribution network in the United States and Europe. More recently, connections have been developed in countries like Thailand and India to increase sales even further. With 2,000 distributors authorized to carry Chromalox products, continued growth into additional new markets is certain. Plants Currently, there are key facilities in multiple states as well as Soissons, France. An Ogden, Utah, plant is a full 192,000 square feet and includes a comprehensive on-site laboratory. It is staffed by engineers who are well versed in the company's entire product line. It is also a major base for shipping and receiving operations in the Western United States. The La Vergne, Tennessee, plant, at 142,000 square feet, plays a central role in the international distribution of Chromalox products. Manufacturing standard controls and power controls, this plant's high production capability is instrumental in allowing the company to fulfill its production commitments. Both silicone laminate heaters and cartridge heaters are also made and tested at this facility along with heat trace cables. Additional components, particularly for the manufacture of original equipment are made at the 120,000 square foot plant in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. This facility has become a leader in employing qualified skilled labor in the area, also incorporating staff from the United States. Employees are fully trained in the application of hardness, pull, and ceramic break testing. The Soissons, France, plant has operated for over sixty years. The production team has focused on developing heating elements and related accessories. Using state-of-the-art equipment, they have streamlined methods while creating the high-quality products and systems. Going Forward The commitment to quality products is the business philosophy at Chromalox. It includes not only producing items in an optimal manner but also thoroughly testing them against the highest standards to assure results. It also means helping clients match the right products and systems to their needs, something that nearly nine decades of experience uniquely positions the company to do. If they are interested in Chromalox Louisiana, business owners should contact a representative at Ross Pethtel Inc for assistance. For more information, visit: http://rosspethtel.com.
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