Advanced Composite Materials, a global firm focusing on development and manufacturing of specialty silicon carbide products and related composites, will invest $3 million to expand operations at its manufacturing facility in Greer, South Carolina. Located at 1446 South Buncombe Road, the company will reconfigure and upfit a portion of its manufacturing space to accommodate the new equipment necessitated by the market expansion.

In 2007 the firm established its headquarters, research and development lab and state-of-the art manufacturing facility in Greenville County to manufacture silicon carbide microfibers for industrial ceramic applications, including microwaveable ceramic composites for the restaurant and food industry. With the expansion of its operations, ACM now intends to introduce a new class of larger silicon carbide fibers particularly suited to the energy sector, aerospace industry and users of coated metals for a wide range of applications.

“Our move into Greenville County was a success,” said Dr. Tom Quantrille, President and CEO of ACM. “Our Silar silicon carbide microfiber technology is now fully embraced by our target markets. Now, the company must expand our production to address new market opportunities essential to achieving our long-term vision for growth.”

“It’s exciting to see existing, innovative companies continue to expand in our state,” said Gov. Nikki Haley. “We commend ACM for growing their presence in the Upstate through this $3 million investment that will create up to 10 new jobs in their facility.”

“South Carolina has emerged as a leader in advanced materials manufacturing,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. “Expansions like this one by ACM underscore the state’s business-friendly environment for innovative companies.”

“Advanced materials and specialty composites are a key business cluster for the Upstate, and we are always pleased to see a locally-based organization like Advanced Composite Materials grow and succeed here,” said Dr. Bob Taylor, Board Member of the Greenville Area Development Corporation and Chairman of Greenville County Council. “ACM is research-based and technology-driven, and a leader in our growing advanced materials community.”

“We are very pleased that Advanced Composite Materials has decided to expand their operations in the City of Greer and Greenville County,” commented Wryley Bettis, Chairman of the Greer Development Corporation. “The sizeable investment in this community by Advanced Composite Materials and the creation of new jobs will continue to create new opportunities for one of the fastest growing areas in South Carolina.”