In 1921, J.R. McWane established McWane Cast Iron Pipe Co. in Birmingham, Alabama. Although he could not have known it at the time, he founded what would become one of the largest foundry companies in the United States. The company grew slowly at first, with only a single additional facility built in Provo, Utah in 1926. Today, however, McWane which is a family owned company employs approximately 6,000 people across the United States, Canada, China, and Australia at 25 operating locations.
McWane's primary business groups consist of foundry and steel fabrication and focus on safe, environmentally friendly manufacturing of ductile iron pipe, water works fittings, fire hydrants and valves, fire extinguishers and tanks used for the storage of water and propane. Our products are integral to the functioning of plumbing and water works systems throughout North America, making pipe that brings potable water to homes and businesses, and products that allow our communities to safely treat and recycle their water. We are a leading provider of water, sanitation, and fire safety infrastructure products to nearly every state in the nation and most recently, a new entrant into the electrical utility business.
The processes at McWane's pipe, valve, hydrant, and fitting facilities are very similar to those used by other foundries. These processes include melting and molding of iron, transporting rough castings via extensive conveying systems, and finishing operations that include grinding, cement lining, and painting. These processes produce high temperatures that require the use of huge, complex, and extensive machinery and equipment. This dynamic, often demanding environment, presents the foundry industry with many unique safety and environmental challenges. However, McWane has always been committed to meeting these safety and environmental challenges for the benefit of both employees and the communities we serve.
