To meet the auto industry’s demand for lightweight, more fuel-efficient structural components, Spartan Light Metal Products partnered with The Korte Company to deliver a state-of-the-art 163,000-square-foot die cast manufacturing facility in Mexico, Missouri.
The facility helped solidify Spartan Light Metal Products’ position as a leader in the growing electric propulsion systems market and marked the second Spartan/Korte collaboration. In 2017, The Korte Company completed a design-build 92,000-square-foot expansion for the company at their Sparta, Illinois location.
The facility’s precast walls were poured off-site, transported to the site and installed. A process that allowed construction to continue through the winter months. Internally, the plant layout is characterized by two key areas, die cast and manufacturing/assembly, separated by a precast wall.
Die cast capacity included space for several large-tonnage die cast machines, 3,500-ton or larger, with the ability to cast either magnesium or aluminum. A single-span bridge supports both a 60- and 30-ton crane. The manufacturing and assembly areas feature conditioned lab spaces, equipment maintenance bays, loading dock areas, storage space, restroom facilities and office space on the upper floor.
The scope of work also included a future “Center of Excellence” visitor experience area and features an expansive first-floor lobby area, hospitality area, product galleries, reception space, and storage. The second-floor mezzanine houses a conference room as well as laboratory-style classrooms.
