Our History
From copper alloys and safety tools to additive manufacturing and welding materials, AMPCO METAL has been setting industry standards since 1914.
Over a Century of Engineered Metal Solutions
AMPCO METAL’s story began in 1914 with the creation of a bronze alloy “hard enough to cut steel”. What started as an entrepreneurial breakthrough has grown into a global company recognized for innovation and excellence in copper-based alloys.
The Early Years
On June 6, 1914, August Littman and a group of entrepreneurs founded the American Metal Products Company, introducing AMPCO® Bronze. Produced through a closely guarded process, this alloy quickly established itself as a material of unique strength and versatility.
During the 1930s, the company expanded production of aluminum bronze alloys through sand casting, centrifugal casting, and forging. By 1930, the company was renamed AMPCO METAL, earning a reputation as a reliable producer of consistent, high-quality products.
Expansion During Word War II
The Second World War brought soaring demand for copper-based alloys. By 1944, AMPCO METAL’s workforce had grown from 100 to 2,500 employees. Every American aircraft carried AMPCO METAL parts, in engines, landing gear, propellers, and airframes, while marine propellers and components powered landing barges and ships. AMPCO alloys became indispensable to both aerospace and marine engineering during this period.
Global Growth
- AMPCO METAL began expanding its international presence in 1957, establishing a strong foothold across Europe. Over the following decades, the company’s reputation for alloy expertise and reliability supported steady growth in new markets.
- In 2003 the Group’s headquarter was moved from the USA to Switzerland, mirroring the change of the company’s shareholding structure. Around the same time, AMPCO METAL focused on emerging markets in Asia, opening a sales and marketing office in Tianjin, China, followed by a distribution center in Shunde and a machining center in Pune, India.
- Growth accelerated in the 2010s through strategic acquisitions that expanded both capacity and regional reach. Two French foundries, Métal Industriel and F.I.P. Industries, were integrated into the Chauny site to strengthen European production.
In South America, the acquisition of Metalofer (later renamed FundiBRONZE) established a strong manufacturing base in Brazil, complete with a new machining center. In parallel, a joint venture in China led to the creation of JIEKE METAL Co. Ltd., a modern foundry supporting local demand and regional distribution.
- In 2024, the acquisition of Schmelzmetall Group marked another important step in AMPCO METAL’s evolution, adding advanced vacuum-casting expertise, additive manufacturing capabilities, and beryllium-containing alloy technology to its portfolio.
- Today, AMPCO METAL operates across 4 continents with production facilities, machining centers, and subsidiaries in 16 countries. With more than a century of metallurgical expertise and a network that continues to grow, the company remains dedicated to delivering engineered alloy solutions and maintaining its position as a trusted global leader.
A Century of Excellence
From its beginnings as a small entrepreneurial venture to its current position as a global leader in high quality metal solutions, AMPCO METAL has remained true to its founding spirit:
Delivering alloys and solutions that push the boundaries of performance and reliability.
A Global Partner You Can Rely On
From its beginnings in 1914 to its global presence today, AMPCO METAL remains committed to quality, innovation, and customer success. Our integrated approach (combining world-class alloys, technical expertise, and responsive service) ensures that every solution we deliver reflects a century of engineered excellence.
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The only producer
of AMPCO® and AMPCOLOY®
Responsive & Reliable: fast turnaround with consistent quality
Trusted Quality:
110+ years of metallurgical expertise
Global Partner: present on 4 continents with local support