Plant focus: Spotlight on Widnes
As we approach the end of the year, we’re shining a spotlight on our final plant for 2023. This month, our focus turns to the Joseph Ash plant in Widnes – Widnes Galvanising, also known as Joseph Ash Widnes. A pivotal location among our nine plants strategically positioned across the UK. We provide insights into our services, cutting-edge facilities, and dedicated team members who tirelessly cater to our valued customers.
Joseph Ash Widnes location and history
Joseph Ash Widnes is situated on the Fairway Trading Park in Cheshire. It services clients from various areas, including (but not limited to) Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Merseyside.
Widnes has a rich industrial history, and galvanizing has played a significant role in the region’s development.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Widnes was a major centre for the chemical industry, particularly the production of alkalis, such as soda ash and soap. The development of the chemical industry led to increased demand for materials and applications (including construction, transportation, and agriculture) that could withstand corrosion, and galvanized steel emerged as a popular choice for this purpose.
Widnes also became known for its expertise in the production of galvanizing equipment. Companies in the area manufactured machinery for galvanizing processes, contributing to the overall industrial infrastructure of the region.
Over time, as industries evolved and the demand for galvanized products persisted, the galvanizing sector in Widnes and Cheshire continued to thrive. Today, the historical legacy of galvanizing is part of the broader industrial heritage of Widnes and its surroundings.
A broad spectrum of services
At Joseph Ash Widnes, our expert team specialises in galvanizing a diverse range of steel products. From structural steel to street furniture, bollards, gates, railings, and balustrades – we ensure robust protection against corrosion for all.
We also take pride in delivering convenience with our comprehensive additional services, including a seamless collection and delivery service, full technical support, on-site storage facilities, and passivation post-hot dip galvanizing. The passivation process at Widnes is also being adapted to become more environmentally friendly, utilising a non-chrome VI solution.
Bath size
The bath size at Joseph Ash Widnes is 6m long by 1m wide by 2.3m deep, with double dipping available. Bigger fabrications can be transported to other Joseph Ash plants with larger capacity baths, using Widnes’s fleet of trucks.
Flexibility
At Widnes, we recognise the importance of meeting tight deadlines. To support our customers, we extend our opening hours for drop-offs and collections. Our commitment to convenience goes further with quick turnaround times – including overnight and within 24 hours – available by prior arrangement.
Uncompromising quality and compliance
Joseph Ash Widnes is dedicated to delivering services of the highest quality while adhering to stringent occupational health and safety, quality, and environmental management standards. You can expect an impeccable finish that aligns with BS EN ISO 1461 specifications when you protect your steel with us.