Hazen Powder Parts (HPP) of Hazen, Ark., is shutting down by the end of August. The maker of high-density stainless and iron alloy powder-metal parts for the auto industry currently employs about 70 workers. In addition, HPP is selling its automotive customer list, compacting presses and sintering furnaces to SSI Sintered Specialties of Janesville, Wis. SSI has already moved HPP equipment to an expanded 6,600-square-foot manufacturing facility in Janesville and could add 40 to 50 new employees to handle the business.
HPP, which was the only non-farming manufacturer in Hazen, specialized in PM stainless steel ABS sensor rings and inlet exhaust flanges. MNP Corp., a Utica, Mich.-based manufacturer of fasteners for OEM automakers and Tier 1 suppliers, purchased the company several years ago.