When the right opportunity comes along…

In February 2024, Ashland and its partners acquired Stainless Foundry & Engineering after the longtime owner opted to exit their ownership. SF&E presented a compelling investment opportunity, with a long track record of stable revenue and profitability. The company’s experienced leadership team included second- and third-generation managers, and over five employees with more than 40 years of service. Specializing in stainless steel and high-alloy investment and sand casting, SF&E benefits from a significant competitive moat—few competitors possess the capabilities to produce these complex parts. A comprehensive suite of industry certifications has unlocked new markets and growth opportunities. Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Milwaukee, WI, SF&E continues to uphold its legacy of quality and innovation.

A One-Stop Shop for Dual Casting Excellence

By integrating both sand casting (50 lbs–7,000+ lbs furnace capacity) and investment casting (sub-1 lb to 350 lbs) divisions under a single roof, SFE eliminates the need for customers to juggle multiple suppliers. Their in-house foundry engineering team advises on optimal casting methods, ensuring every part—from complex pump impellers to pressure-vessel components—is manufacturable, cost-effective, and delivered on time.

Unmatched Industry Reach

SFE’s corrosion-resistant, high-heat, and wear-resistant castings serve a staggering array of sectors, including:

• Energy & Power: Chemical, petrochemical, nuclear, and power generation

• Infrastructure & Transportation: Marine, aerospace, and structural equipment

• Process Industries: Pulp & paper, food & dairy, pharmaceutical, metering, valves, and pumps

• Defense & Instrumentation: Military systems and critical instrumentation
  With over 600 customers across North America and Europe, SFE supports mission-critical applications where failure is not an option.

Precision Machining & Value-Added Services

Beyond casting, SFE’s one-stop machine shop offers specialized CNC turning, milling, grinding, drilling, EDM, and welding services—capable of handling parts from a few ounces up to 600 lbs. Leveraging lean manufacturing and approved supplier partnerships, they deliver intricate geometries and tight tolerances with the speed and cost-efficiency that today’s fast-moving markets demand.

Unwavering Commitment to Quality

SFE was the first U.S. foundry certified to the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) 97/23/EC and now holds the largest material scope under PED 2014/68/EU. Additional accreditations include ISO 9001:2015, NIAC (Nuclear Industry Assessment Corporation), ASME NQA-1, ASME BPVC Section III, 10 CFR Part 50 Appendix B, and NORSOK M-650—underscoring its dedication to safety, traceability, and zero-defect delivery.

Driving Innovation with Digital Tools

To help customers specify the ideal alloy and process, SFE offers an interactive Casting Alloy Selector and Alloy Comparison Tool, simplifying material selection while accelerating design cycles. Coupled with a robust metallurgy knowledge base and responsive engineering support, these digital resources exemplify SFE’s mission to deliver competitive, turnkey solutions—on time, every time.

Looking Ahead
As part of the Ashland Capital Partners family, Stainless Foundry & Engineering continues to invest in cutting-edge technology, workforce development, and process innovations. Their blend of time-honored craftsmanship and modern precision positions SFE to capitalize on emerging market opportunities—strengthening Ashland’s commitment to supporting industry leaders that set the standard for quality and reliability.