Howell Foundry plans to expand its 3D-printing capabilities following a $7.4 million update to its operation in St. Francisville, LA. Further details of the reported three-phase project were not provided. The supplier of iron, stainless, and specialty alloy castings for pulp/paper, energy, mining, and petrochemical customers expects to create 26 new jobs and retain 22 current, according to an announcement by the Louisiana Economic Development agency.
Work was scheduled to start in December for completion by the end of 2027, LED said.
The state will provide a $400,000 performance-based forgivable loan for infrastructure work, contingent upon Howell Foundry meeting investment and payroll targets. Also, the foundry is expected to participate in the state’s Quality Jobs and Industrial Tax Exemption programs.
“Howell Foundry’s reinvestment in St. Francisville supports industrial facilities around our state and across the country by providing high-quality components to ensure they run at peak efficiency,” stated Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards. “I applaud Howell Foundry for its spirit of innovation, which ensures its business operations will remain vibrant for generations to come, and thank them for their renewed commitment to the state it has called home for nearly 30 years.”
The foundry emphasizes its ability to deliver complex parts with quick turnaround, using 3D-scanning to convert parts or patterns into reproducible programs, casting process simulation to plan and set-up production, and 3D-sand printing of molds and cores.
“Howell Foundry combines modern-day 3D innovations with proven craftsmanship in one of the oldest known trades to produce rapid and reliable solutions to its valued customers who are primarily located on the Gulf Coast,” stated company president JB Shoaf said. “We take great pride in being a local business that serves local businesses.”