Stockholm, Sweden-based Atlas Copco last week inaugurated Wuxitec, a new production plant to manufacture screw compressor elements in Wuxi, China, alongside the existing compressor manufacturing plant. The investment has a value of around MSEK 194 (about US $26.5 million).

A compressor element is the core component of a compressor, and the demand for high quality screw compressors in China and Asia has shown solid and sustained growth during the past few years. At the same time, the introduction and market acceptance of new compressor models has further boosted the demand.

“This investment is a confirmation of our belief in the future growth of the Chinese market and also in the capabilities of our people in Wuxi,” said Ronnie Leten, business area president, Atlas Copco Compressor Technique. “This investment is a strategic expansion in order to serve our customers in China, as well as in the Asian region.”

The investment in the new Wuxitec plant consists of a new production hall and state-of-the-art machine tools for the manufacturing of the compressor elements. Production starts at the same time as the inauguration. The new plant in China complements the existing compressor element plant in Antwerp, Belgium, which will continue to produce elements for the other regions of the world, Atlas Copco officials said. Elements manufactured by Wuxitec will be used mainly in compressors for the Chinese market but also for other parts of Asia. Wuxitec is part of the Airtec division within Atlas Copco’s Compressor Technique business area. The investment is expected to create 60 new job opportunities over time.

Atlas Copco is an international provider of compressed air and gas equipment, generators, construction and mining equipment, industrial tools and assembly systems to related aftermarket and rental companies.

Airtec is a division within Atlas Copco's Compressor Technique business area. It develops and manufactures compressor elements and core parts exclusively for use in Atlas Copco’s oil-free and oil-injected screw compressors, tooth and turbo compressors. Airtec’s headquarters, high tech laboratories and production center are located in Antwerp, Belgium.