Kennametal Inc. announced the official opening of its new Tianjin, China manufacturing facility less than a year after the company first announced groundbreaking for the operation. Located in the Tianjin Economic Development Area (TEDA), the facility, initially sized at 160,000 square feet, will employ some 200 people in manufacturing and advanced engineering and design activities. The operation could grow to 450,000 square feet and employment could reach 400 people. The $31 million invested in this plant is in addition to the approximately $35 million that Kennametal has already invested in its China businesses in other locations. This new capability will enable the company to more effectively serve a rapidly developing Asia Pacific market as well as support Kennametal's global customers with locations in the region.

More than 700 customers, dignitaries and other special guests joined Kennametal employees for the grand opening ceremony, which included plant tours, demonstrations and exhibits.

"The size and importance of this rapidly expanding market demands that we enhance our presence," said Kennametal President and CEO Carlos Cardoso. "Our global and local customers expect us to be there with them, and to serve their needs with world class products and services. Our presence promotes customer intimacy, shorter lead times, global quality/local availability, and positions Kennametal well to succeed in this market."