Expansion positions Richmond as a critical engine powering data center growth and long-term customer ambitions across North America
RICHMOND, Va., Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – In response to accelerating demand driven by the rapid expansion of data centers across North America, Alfa Laval announced a major expansion of its Richmond, Virginia manufacturing facility. Already underway, the multi-year investment will double the site’s production capacity for heat exchangers by mid-2028, reinforcing Alfa Laval’s position as the region’s leading heat transfer technology manufacturer.
The expansion includes a comprehensive factory re-layout, increased automation across production lines, and significant investment in workforce development. Together, these initiatives are designed to boost efficiency, enhance product quality, and ensure Alfa Laval can support customers’ long-term growth without supply constraints.
“As data centers scale to support AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure, heat transfer technology has become mission-critical,” said Ester Codina, President of Alfa Laval North America. “This expansion ensures heat exchangers never become the bottleneck for our customers’ ambitions. We’re building capacity ahead of demand, not reacting to it.”
Surging investment in AI and data infrastructure is accelerating demand for advanced, reliable heat exchange solutions. Alfa Laval’s Richmond expansion is a deliberate, long-term move to stay ahead of market pressure, secure customer supply, and scale with demand through 2028 and beyond.
The expansion focuses on optimizing factory flow, increasing automation, and strengthening workforce capabilities through targeted hiring, upskilling, and new European-led training frameworks designed for advanced manufacturing.
“Growth isn’t just about scale — it’s about how we work,” said Bill Hertz, Factory Manager, Richmond. “By combining automation with deep employee expertise, we’re building a more resilient, efficient operation while investing in long-term skill development.”
Richmond plays a critical role in Alfa Laval’s North American manufacturing network, supporting customers across the U.S. and Canada. The expansion enhances regional supply reliability while positioning the site as a more attractive employer, with expanded opportunities in technical training and advanced manufacturing.
Global best practices from Alfa Laval’s operations are already being implemented, ensuring quality and operational excellence as automation increases.
The capacity increase is a phased, multi-year initiative, with full completion targeted for mid-2028, ensuring uninterrupted production while scaling to meet future demand.
To learn more about Alfa Laval’s services and locations, visit Alfa Laval service and support | Alfa Laval.
About Alfa Laval
The ability to make the most of what we have is more important than ever. Together with our customers, we’re innovating the industries that society depends on and creating lasting positive impact. Alfa Laval is a leading global provider of first-rate products in the areas of heat transfer, separation and fluid handling. We’re set on helping billions of people to get the energy, food, and clean water they need. And, at the same time, we’re decarbonizing the marine fleet that is the backbone of global trade.
We pioneer technologies and solutions that enable our customers to unlock the true potential of resources. As our customers’ businesses grow stronger, the goal of a truly sustainable world edges closer. The company is committed to optimizing processes, creating responsible growth, and driving progress to support customers in achieving their business goals and sustainability targets. Together, we’re pioneering positive impact.
Alfa Laval was founded 140 years ago, has customers in 100 countries, employs more than 22,300 people, and annual sales were SEK 66.9 billion (5.8 BEUR) in 2024. The company is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.
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SOURCE Alfa Laval
