Birmingham News reported that Harbison Walker Refractories Co, that laid off 75 workers last week, is being mothballed until demand for its products increases.

Mr Jon Allegretti president of parent ANH Refractories said that the Harbison Walker Refractories Co plant has suffered a dramatic drop in demand from steel and aluminum makers who use its temperature resistant bricks to line ovens and kilns. He added that "We don't see in reopening before November 2009."

Mr Allegretti said that similar problems stemming from low demand are afflicting the more than one dozen plants ANH Refractories operates. The president said he remains optimistic. He added that "We have every intention of sticking with the Fairfield plant on a long term basis."

(Sourced from www.bhamnews.com)