Amsted Industries Incorporated · Chicago, IL United States

Wilbur and Orville Wright's first flight might never have succeeded without an assist from Amsted Industries' Diamond Chain subsidiary. A maker of bicycle and industrial roller chains, Diamond Chain produced the propeller chain for the Wright brothers' aircraft. The company's three diverse segments manufacture highly engineered industrial components for locomotive and railcar manufacturers, automotive OEMs, and construction and building markets. Amsted is a major force in making freight car undercarriages. Its main subsidiaries include ASF-Keystone, Griffin Pipe Products, and Means Industries. Employee-owned, Amsted has nearly 50 plants worldwide. North American customers account for 85% of the company's sales. To read the full description, subscribe now.