With nearly a century of history in Japan, alloy-casting maker Kimura Foundry came to the United States only in 2013. Keen on introducing Japanese quality casting to the U.S. market, Kimura Foundry America (KFA) began by importing its products all the way from Japan.

Realizing the importance of localization, Kimura Foundry decided to bring its proprietary casting process to the United States.
“I’ve visited many states and spoke with of our customers. Every one of them said that if I we could start a foundry business in the United States, they would be so happy,” recalled KFA President Yoya Fukuda.
Its Direct Molding Process (DMP) utilizes 3-D printing in a new method designed by Fukuda himself. Focusing on prototyping rather than mass production, the DMP process eliminates defects in its products. The entire process from 3-D modeling to finished casting takes only five days.
“Our casting is low cost, delivery times short, and quality very high. This allows us to satisfy all of our customers. My DMP process isn’t selling casting. We are selling time,” Fukuda stressed.
The company broke ground for its new production facility in Shelbyville in neighboring Indiana. It is expected to be operational in late 2018.