The Elmet Group Co., based in Portland, Maine, has finalized a strategic acquisition of ams OSRAM’s tungsten and molybdenum manufacturing operations in Schwabmünchen, Bavaria, Germany. The deal, signed by Elmet’s German subsidiary, will bring the company’s first European manufacturing footprint in the refractory metals sector, targeting critical applications in aerospace, defense, fusion research, semiconductors, and industrial sectors. Closing is expected in the first quarter of 2027, contingent on regulatory approvals and transition activities.
The Schwabmünchen facility, established in 1961 and spanning approximately 26,800 square meters, produces over 3,500 products, including metal powders, rods, wire, cathodes, anodes, and machined parts. Its production chain encompasses powder formation, pressing, sintering, swaging, drawing, and finishing. The site has earned the 2024 Germany Smart Digitization Factory 4.0 award, reflecting its advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Elmet currently operates refractory metals facilities in Maine, Ohio, and Michigan, under its Critical Materials Components and Engineered Microwave Products divisions. The acquisition will retain the existing leadership and operating team at Schwabmünchen, with plans to invest in workforce development, equipment upgrades, capacity expansion, and commercial systems. The German subsidiary will continue serving ams OSRAM’s existing customers while expanding production to include TZM alloy and tungsten heavy alloy. External customers are expected to experience no disruption post-acquisition.
Tungsten is designated as a European Union critical raw material, underscoring the strategic importance of this acquisition. The facility’s existing customer base includes sectors such as defense, medical, automotive, and industrial applications, while the acquisition also positions Elmet to support emerging markets like fusion research and semiconductor manufacturing.
Elmet’s move aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing the expansion of critical materials supply chains amid geopolitical and technological shifts. The deal underscores the company’s commitment to diversifying its manufacturing footprint while strengthening its position in high-demand refractory metals markets.
