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Michelle Clemon
McWane, Inc.
(205) 871-9774
mclemon@mcwane.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ATLANTIC STATES TO BECOME FIRST FOUNDRY IN NORTH AMERICA TO REDUCE MERCURY EMISSIONS

Phillipsburg, NJ, May 4, 2005 - Atlantic States Cast Iron Pipe ("Atlantic States") today announced plans to introduce a state-of-the-art emission control system making it the first foundry in North America to apply control technology to substantially limit mercury emissions. Utilizing the most sophisticated industry technology available, Atlantic States will go beyond compliance with current and anticipated air regulations. The emissions control system represents an investment in excess of $9.3 million and the company anticipates it will be made operational in the first quarter of 2006

Atlantic States made the announcement this afternoon during a ceremony at its facility, along with Brad Campbell, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection ("NJDEP").

The company reported that new technology contained in the system is anticipated to allow Atlantic States to surpass compliance with furnace emission limits required by standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency under the federal Clean Air Act, and preemptively meet NJDEP mercury regulations far ahead of its compliance date of January 1, 2010. 

"We take great pride in the fact that Atlantic States will be introducing a cupola emissions system that will set the standard for the industry and result in significant benefits to the environment," said Mitchell Kidd, Vice President and General Manager of Atlantic States. "We are particularly proud of our efforts to reduce mercury in the environment through our efforts as an active member of the coalition that successfully pressed for the legislation enacted last month to require the removal of mercury switches from end-of-life vehicles used as scrap metal." 

The introduction of this upgraded system is part of an agreement to resolve all outstanding liability with the NJDEP regarding air emissions and stormwater discharges. As part of the agreement, the company will fund an environmental project in the amount of $85,000 to monitor mercury in the ambient air. The company will also evaluate the use of mercury Continuous Emissions Monitoring System ("CEMS") technology, to assist in monitoring baghouse operations and emissions.

"We sincerely thank the NJDEP for their cooperation and we will continue to work closely with regulators and organizations such as the Warren County AirQAP to ensure environmental protection for our community," added Kidd.

"Being the first in the country to reduce mercury emissions at these levels is a strong demonstration of Atlantic States' commitment to protecting the environment," said Hank Habicht, former Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. "Atlantic States' mercury control technology can serve as the model for other foundries throughout North America."

Atlantic States' advanced emissions system will provide the followingbenefits:

  • Significant reduction in mercury emissions and particulate matter emissions
  • Reduction in carbon monoxide emissions by 60%
  • Cost savings in natural gas and electricity consumption, and wastedisposal
  • Elimination of the visible steam plume for the first time since 1856
  • Reduction in noise levels associated with daily operations
  • Improved safety and facility housekeeping
  • Enhanced performance of the water reuse treatment plant

About Atlantic States
Atlantic States Cast Iron Pipe Company, based in Phillipsburg, NJ, is a Division of McWane Inc. The foundry was first founded on March 3, 1856 as the Warren Foundry and Machine Company and was acquired by McWane, Inc. in 1975. Today, Atlantic States Cast Iron Pipe Company, which employs approximately 300 people and utilizes the latest engineering techniques, is recognized as one of the country's most experienced manufacturers and suppliers of Ductile Iron pipe meeting customer needs throughout the Mid-Atlantic, New England states and Canada.