ACE, Erie, PA, announced the celebration of its 150th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history as a leader in forging and metal-forming technology. With roots tracing back to 1875, ACE has grown into North America’s largest supplier of forging and forming equipment, shaped by strategic mergers, decades of engineering expertise, and a commitment to customer success.
The company’s evolution was significantly driven by the merger of three industry pioneers—Ajax Manufacturing, Chambersburg Engineering Company (CECO), and Erie Press Systems. Together, they bring more than 400 years of combined experience in metal forming, enabling ACE to offer the most comprehensive range of forging and forming solutions in the industry.
Founded in 1875, Ajax Manufacturing built its reputation on high-quality forging hammers, presses, and upsetters. The company expanded in 2005 with the acquisition of CECO, a manufacturer specializing in hydraulic and mechanical forging technology since 1897. In 2019, Erie Press Systems, a specialist in stretch forming and hydraulic presses for aerospace and automotive applications, joined the group. This consolidation resulted in the formation of Ajax/CECO/Erie Press (ACE), a unified brand offering advanced equipment and services to a global client base.
Now operating under Park-Ohio Holdings Corp., a diversified industrial holding company based in Cleveland, ACE benefits from expanded engineering resources, global market access, and enhanced service capabilities. Its solutions support critical industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, defense, and heavy machinery manufacturing.
The company’s current portfolio includes forging hammers, hydraulic and mechanical presses, upsetters, ring rolling mills, and hydroforming systems. To ensure high equipment performance and longevity, ACE emphasizes five operational pillars: preventive maintenance, parts and repair programs, rebuilding and remanufacturing, automation upgrades, and modern human-machine interfaces (HMIs). Training programs further support workforce development and operational efficiency.
The 150-year milestone not only highlights ACE’s legacy of innovation but also its ongoing commitment to supporting modern manufacturers with equipment and practices that reduce downtime, improve safety, and drive productivity. As the forging industry continues to evolve, ACE aims to remain a trusted partner in advancing manufacturing excellence.
Read further here : www.AjaxErie.com
