Hilton Metal Forging boosts Indian railway manufacturing capabilities with new product

Hilton Metal Forging Ltd., a key player in the forging industry, has taken a significant step towards self-reliance in the Indian railway sector with the launch of its new product: Wagon Axles for Railway Wagons. Traditionally dependent on imports, this development under the “Make In India” and “AtmaNirbhar Bharat” initiatives is set to conserve foreign exchange and ensure timely delivery to domestic wagon manufacturers.

Situated in Wada, Maharashtra, Hilton Metal’s extensive manufacturing facility is well-equipped to support the burgeoning demands of the railway sector. The company has an annual capacity to produce 48,000 wagon wheels, positioning it to address the current shortfall and future needs effectively.

In a recent move, the board of directors approved an increase in paid-up capital from Rs 25 crore to Rs 35 crore, aiming to bolster business expansion through fresh equity issuance expected to raise up to Rs 100 crore. This financial strengthening comes in the wake of impressive performance figures, with the company reporting a 14.1% rise in net profit for FY 2023-24, amounting to Rs. 6.68 crore.

Since its inception in 2005, Hilton Metal Forging has diversified its product range beyond its traditional offerings of flanges and fittings to include turbine blades for the wind energy sector and now, crucially, railway wagon components. The company’s venture into the railway forged wagon wheel market began in early 2022, and it has since supplied over 2,500 units and Rail Gear Blanks, primarily servicing the replacement market across various Indian Railway Workshops.

Hilton Metal’s expansion into wagon axle manufacturing not only exemplifies the successful execution of national manufacturing policies but also strategically positions the company to capitalize on the expanding infrastructure demands in India. This move is likely to catalyze further growth and innovation within the sector, enhancing the company’s competitive edge both domestically and in global markets.