Graham Expands Into Sheet with Welex Purchase

Blow molding machinery supplier Graham Engineering Corp. (GEC) has made yet another acquisition in extrusion, last month buying Welex Inc., an iconic nameplate in sheet systems. Last October, Graham acquired American Kuhne, Ashaway, R.I., which supplies feedscrews, extruders, and complete lines for medical tubing, pipe, and profiles.

Welex’s machine-building operation will move from Greenville, N.C. to Graham’ headquarters in York, Pa. David Schroeder, former president and CEO of Welex, has been appointed as president of GEC; and Wolfgang Liebertz, formerly president of GEC, is now CEO of the combined GEC/Welex organization.

Welex, based in Blue Bell, Pa., was founded in 1967 by Jack Hendrickson and, under the direction of long-time president Frank Nissel, became a global leader in sheet extrusion lines. According to a release issued by the company, Welex has equipment installed at more than 3000 plants in 69 countries.