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Backer Cynebar Ohmic Expands Brisbane Manufacturing with Acquisition of Hurtle Webster Wire Wound Resistor Range

by JN ·

Finished Hurtle Webster wire wound resistors in production trays at the Brisbane factory

At the end of August, Backer Cynebar Ohmic proudly completed the acquisition of the Hurtle Webster wire wound resistor product range, marking a significant milestone in the company's continued investment in Australian manufacturing and electrical engineering capability.

Following the acquisition, production successfully commenced in September after the complete transfer of machinery, tooling, inventory, and technical documentation from Melbourne to our Brisbane manufacturing facility.

Hurtle Webster wire wound resistors with brass end caps
Hurtle Webster wire wound resistors with brass end caps

Strengthening Australian Manufacturing

The integration of the Hurtle Webster resistor range aligns with Backer Cynebar Ohmic's long-term strategy of expanding locally manufactured electrical products while preserving the expertise and quality that Australian industry has relied upon for decades.

By relocating the production equipment into our existing Brisbane facility, we have been able to streamline manufacturing operations, improve production efficiencies, and ensure continuity of supply for customers across Australia and overseas.

The move also reinforces our commitment to maintaining critical electrical manufacturing capability in Australia at a time when many specialised products are increasingly sourced from offshore suppliers.

Continuing a Trusted Product Range

The Hurtle Webster wire wound resistor range has a long history of serving industries including:

  • Mining and resources
  • Power generation
  • Renewable energy
  • Rail and transport
  • Industrial automation
  • OEM equipment manufacturing

Known for their reliability and robust construction, these resistor products are commonly used in:

  • Motor starting applications
  • Dynamic braking systems
  • Load banks
  • Neutral earthing systems
  • Current limiting circuits
  • Industrial control equipment

Customers can continue to expect the same proven resistor designs while benefiting from the enhanced manufacturing capabilities and engineering support available through Backer Cynebar Ohmic.

Ceramic resistor formers and brass terminals transferred from Melbourne
Ceramic resistor formers and brass terminals transferred from Melbourne

Seamless Transition to Brisbane

The transfer project involved relocating manufacturing machinery, production tooling, raw material inventory, and technical assets from Melbourne to Brisbane. Once installed in our facility, the equipment underwent commissioning and production validation to ensure product quality remained consistent with previous manufacturing standards.

With production now fully operational, customers can confidently place orders knowing local manufacturing and technical support are available from our Brisbane headquarters.

Resistor winding machinery installed at the Brisbane manufacturing facility
Resistor winding machinery installed at the Brisbane manufacturing facility

Expanded Engineering and Manufacturing Capability

The acquisition further strengthens Backer Cynebar Ohmic's position as one of Australia's leading manufacturers of electrical heating and power resistor solutions.

In addition to the Hurtle Webster resistor range, our Brisbane facility manufactures:

  • Neutral Earthing Resistors (NERs)
  • Dynamic Braking Resistors
  • Load Bank Resistors
  • Industrial Heating Elements
  • Duct Heaters
  • Process Heating Systems
  • Trace Heating Equipment
  • Custom Engineered Electrical Solutions

The addition of the Hurtle Webster product line allows us to provide an even broader range of resistor technologies while maintaining local design, engineering, and manufacturing expertise.

Red-coated wire wound resistors curing on production racks
Red-coated wire wound resistors curing on production racks

Looking Ahead

This acquisition represents more than simply relocating production equipment. It is an investment in Australian manufacturing capability, skilled jobs, and the long-term support of critical industrial infrastructure.

We would like to thank our customers and suppliers for their support throughout the transition process and look forward to continuing the legacy of the Hurtle Webster wire wound resistor range under the Backer Cynebar Ohmic banner.

For more information about our wire wound resistor solutions or to discuss your application requirements, contact the engineering team at Backer Cynebar Ohmic.

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