Mercury Marine expands diecasting operation

Mercury Marine opened the expansion to its diecasting facility in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, with plans to add a 4,500t die cast machine.

The $9mn facility will make complex blocks, driveshafts and gearcases for Mercury's outboard motors. The facility will also contain large tonnage die casting equipment for better throughput in order to keep up with increased engine demand, specifically for the V8 and V6 product lines.

The addition of the 4,500t die cast machine will give Mercury two of the largest die cast machines in North America. The new machines are expected to increase Mercury's capacity by 15pc.

Mercury casts parts using a recycled aluminum alloy XK 360, as well as a its own proprietary Mercalloy.

The opening of the diecasting facility comes after Mercury broke ground on an addition to its propeller casting facility at Fond du Lac on 3 May. The $17mn expansion is expected to double Mercury's current output of stainless steel propellers.

Mercury has invested more than $1.14bn in expansions and research and development since 2008.