Fairfield Opens New R&D Lab

January 9, 2008 • Fairfield Manufacturing Co., Lafayette, Ind., announces the opening of a new research and development center. The new 8,800-square-foot engineering test center will be equipped with a broad range of dynamometers and related testing equipment for analyzing a wide variety of drive systems,including those for mechanical-, hydraulic-, and electric-powered applications.

The company held a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony on Dec. 21 to commemorate the completion and opening of the R&D facility. The new Research and Development Lab was dedicated to James R. Dammon, vice president of engineering at Fairfield. During his 41 years with the company, Dammon has been instrumental in pioneering such products as electric drive gear assembles for industrial forklifts and fully integrated, steerable electric drive assemblies for scissor lifts.

Local officials in attendance at the riboon cutting included Mayor Tony Roswarski, Senator Ron Alting, State Representative Sheila Klinker, and key representatives from Purdue University. Fairfield President and CEO Gary Lehman hosted the event.

“This is a very important step in our journey as a global leader in gear and drive systems, and will help enable us to reach a higher level of technology and innovation in our drive system solutions,” Lehman said. “Our people, the community, our customers, and our owners at Oerlikon have all made a significant contribution in helping Fairfield achieve its goal of becoming a technology leader in the marketplace.”