As written in Coal People Magazine When working in the mining industry, it doesn't take long to realize that while corporate entities change and merge frequently, the people involved often do not. That is the case with Metalcraft. In the early 1970s, the Wil-Jar group decided to extend its services to rebuilding underground mining equipment. A facility was built in Fenwick, WV under the name of Metalcraft Engineering. Metalcraft's current owner, Harley McClung, was part of the crew that erected the manufacturing facility and was hired by Metalcraft Engineering when the building was completed.  Through the 70s and early 80s, Metalcraft provided rebuild and
repair services for underground mining equipment and Harley
worked his way up to plant manager. Over the years Wil-Jar
was bought out by Carbon Industries, two additional facilities
were opened and Carbon Industries was acquired by ITT
Corporation. In late 1983 ITT Corporation decided to sell its
rebuild sectors. The Fenwick facility was purchased by Harley
McClung and his partners and Metalcraft Mining Equipment
Rebuilders, Inc. was born. A second facility, just outside of
Summersville, WV, was acquired in 1997.Although ownership has changed again, with Mr. McClung buying out his partners, the mission has not. The goal at Metalcraft is to continue providing the mining industry with quality service at competitive prices. With over 23,000 square feet of production space in two facilities, Metalcraft is able to offer an array of services. Although emphasis tends to be placed on certain machines, all types of underground mining equipment are remanufactured, incorporating the latest design changes and updates. At Metalcraft, a remanufacture doesn't begin and end at the plant. Representatives are available to visit customer mine sites, inspect equipment and assist customers in evaluating their needs. From tear down to final inspection, a Metalcraft remanufacture is thorough. Every part of the machine, including the frame, is restored to "like new" condition. In the event a frame is determined to be beyond economical repair, a new one can be fabricated. Metalcraft employees stand behind their work. Complete remanufactures carry a 180-day warranty and new frames carry a 2-year limited warranty. Two key ingredients in providing excellent service are communication and customer involvement. Metalcraft strives for both. Customers are not only welcome, but are encouraged to inspect their machinery at any time during the remanufacturing process and to be present for final testing. Additionally, service personnel are available to send to customer mine sites upon equipment start-up and in the event of a machine failure. In addition to complete remanufacturing, other services offered by Metalcraft include: reconditioning and repairing equipment to customer specifications, computerized balanced cutterdrum lacing, CNC cutting and a variety of hydraulic, mechanical, welding and machine work. Used machinery is also purchased to remanufacture and sell. For a current listing of available equipment, visit the company website at www. metalcraftminingequipment.com. Over the years, Metalcraft has invested heavily in technology, facilities, and perhaps most importantly, people. The company's ongoing and constant goal is a firm commitment to meeting customer needs and exceeding customer expectations. As Metalcraft approaches its 25th anniversary, that commitment and dedication to caring for customers remains unchanged. The people of Metalcraft are proud to be a part of an industry that continues to thrive amid diversity and dramatic change and look forward to serving customers for another 25 years. For more information, or a free estimate, please call (304) 872-2950.  Click here to download article in PDF format. Back to previous article |