Four generations of family leadership have kept Philadelphia’s International Chemical Company family-owned and family-operated since its founding in 1906. The century-old specialty chemical manufacturer is known for custom-formulating metalworking fluids around the specific needs of manufacturers, backed by technical evaluations and on-site testing.
Clark Oil & ChemicalSince 1912, Cleveland-based Clark Oil & Chemical has blended and developed metalworking fluids, pairing a full-service laboratory with production that can handle both transport batches and individual drum prototypes. Its specialty is application-specific formulation, with technical staff working directly with customers on demanding machining, forming, and stamping operations. Clark serves industries ranging from automotive to nuclear energy and medical-device manufacturing, and ships its products worldwide.CLEVELAND, OH
RichardsApex, IncNow in its fourth generation of family ownership, RichardsApex, Inc. develops and manufactures specialty metalworking lubricants, process coatings, and cleaning compounds from its Philadelphia base. The company traces its roots to G. Whitfield Richards Co., founded in 1902, and has more than 120 years of experience, with particular depth in wire-drawing lubricants and technical support for demanding metal-forming applications. Its international operations include subsidiaries in the UK, Mexico, and Australia.PHILADELPHIA, PA
Advanced Chemical SolutionsFounded in 2001 by two longtime metalworking-lubricant professionals, Advanced Chemical Solutions makes metalworking fluids and develops tailored formulas for demanding machining applications. The Orrville-based company distinguishes itself from larger brands by pairing more than 60 years of its founders’ field experience with application-specific blends and practical fluid-management support, including for exotic materials and both large central systems and small shops.ORRVILLE, OH
Force Industries Division, American Solder & Flux Co., IncFounded in Philadelphia in 1910, Force Industries manufactures specialty fluxes and metal lubricants for the metalworking industry. Now a third-generation family-owned company based in Paoli, Pennsylvania, it maintains nearly 200 active formulations, including products used in metal joining and by manufacturers of aluminum and tinplate food and beverage containers. Force supplies customers in more than 30 countries and also develops private-label chemical products.PAOLI, PA