Metalworking fluids manufacturer QualiChem has completed a major expansion of its headquarters, laboratory and manufacturing facilities in Salem, Va. The expansion was undertaken to boost capacity in order to meet increasing demand for QualiChem products and enhance customer satisfaction.

With the recently completed phased expansion program, QualiChem has increased its facilities’ total square footage by 70 percent. The building now includes 35 percent more space for quality control, R&D laboratories and manufacturing, and 50 percent more space for raw material and finished goods, plus a 233 percent increase for shipping and receiving. The company has also added a new state-of-the-art 45-seat training and conference center.

“We have seen a steady growth rate over the past 12 years as a result of focusing on delivering innovative, high-quality products backed by industry-leading technical support,” said Glenn Frank, President of QualiChem. “The expansion allows us to maintain and improve our product and service capabilities to customers in terms of quality, delivery times and product consistency.”

“Since our first expansion in 2006, we have sustained steady year-on-year growth, even during the economic downturn starting in 2008, due to our unrelenting focus on new product development, customer service and support for our distribution partners,” added Mr. Frank. “We have more than doubled our manufacturing, laboratory, sales and technical support staff in the Salem facility since 2006. With this expansion, we can support a 300 percent increase in manufacturing output over the next few years.”

Established in 1989, QualiChem develops and manufactures metalworking fluids and water treatment chemicals worldwide. The company’s Metalworking Fluids Division offers next-generation cutting and grinding fluids, straight oils, rust preventives, and metal cleaners. The Water Treatment Division formulates, blends and private labels for regional sales and service companies. These products are designed to control scale, corrosion and fouling in cooling towers, boilers and other systems.