By Huang Zhiling and He Ping (chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2008-04-18 11:06

CHENGDU: The Timken Company, one of the world's largest providers of aerospace bearings and power transmission systems, today 'took off' in the Chengdu High-Tech Development Zone, launching a new aerospace facility in this capital of Southwest China's Sichuan Province.

The new Chengdu factory, which will have some 120 associates to manufacture small- and medium-sized ball and cyclindrical roller bearings, will be its fifth plant to come online in China and its first one in West China, said Leong Fang, president of Timken's operations in China.

"The opening of the Chengdu factory is not only important to our ability to serve customers in China’s growing aerospace market, it also represents another important investment in the expansion of Timken's global aerospace capabilities," said James W. Griffith, Timken president and chief executive officer.

Timken already manufacturers many of its core products in China, including large-bore industrial products.

"Chengdu will benefit from Timken's worldwide experience in the latest innovations in the aerospace industry, such as specialization in comprehensive lifecycle capabilities that span technology development, engineering, manufacturing, repair and fleet support; focused parts programs supplying a steady stream of replacements to keep aircraft in flight, and help MRO (maintenance, repair and operation) costs through replacement components and technical and logistical support systems," Griffith said.

Timken, which first entered China in 1992, employs nearly 4,000 people in China and has built a network of five manufacturing facilities, eight offices and multiple logistics and service centers in the greater China region to serve customers locally and internationally.

"Our investment in Chengdu is not just in a plant, it's also in people," said Fang. "We have recruited local engineers and will continue to train and develop a highly skilled workforce in China."