COLUMBIA, Mo. - SEMCO Duct & Acoustical Products Inc. will open its newest manufacturing facility in Arlington, Texas, in early June 2006. According to the company, this plant will support its growing customer base in the Southwest and Gulf Coast markets.

The new 60,000-square-foot facility will operate as two separate plants, following in the successful design and operation of the company's Roanoke, Va., plant. One component of this new plant will support the production of SEMCO's manifolded and custom ductwork. The other function will produce and store standard products to support the company's stocking program. The stocking program enables SEMCO representatives to offer quick-ship, readily available product to their clientele.

"The strong growth in construction necessitated the need for a new plant strategically located in the Southwest," said Jim Walker, director of sales for SEMCO Duct & Acoustical Products. "Arlington is the perfect location because it allows us to service our Southwest and Gulf Coast customers more effectively while tapping into the state's highly skilled workforce."

The manifolded and stock product produced from the Arlington plant will be available with a full array of joint connections, including SEMCO's patented SuperSeal Plusâ„¢ self-sealing gasketed joint connection system. This system is designed to significantly reduce installation time, thus saving the contractor money by trimming labor costs.

The plant will also offer a state-of-the-art oven for the application of AVRON46â„¢ to the company's duct and acoustical products. AVRON46 is an antimicrobial coating, EPA-approved for use in HVAC systems.

"The hot and humid climate in the Southwest is especially susceptible to the growth of mold and mildew. By offering a uniquely affordable solution to mold prevention, we are confident that this product will benefit this market," said William E. Thurman, president of SEMCO Inc.

John Mathews has been named plant manager, and he will be responsible for directing all day-to-day activities. The company plans to hold an open house for contractors, engineers, and representatives in the near future.

For more information, visit www.semcoinc.com.

Publication date: 05/08/2006