IMI has inaugurated its new manufacturing facility in Lake Forest, marking a significant expansion of its global capabilities in precision engineering for the energy sector. The facility replaces the company’s long-standing Rancho Santa Margarita site, where operations had been based since 1987, and consolidates more than 200 employees under one modern, purpose-built campus.
The new site brings together engineering, manufacturing, project management, quality assurance, and research and development functions, specifically designed to support IMI’s expertise in severe service control valves. These components are critical to high-demand industrial environments where precision, durability, and reliability are essential.
Energy remains one of IMI’s three long-term growth megatrends, with the Process Automation business at its core. Rising global demand for electricity driven by data centre expansion, electrification of transport, and industrial growth has significantly increased the need for advanced flow control solutions. IMI’s technologies support key segments including nuclear power expansion as well as upstream and downstream oil and gas operations, where operational efficiency and safety are critical.
The Lake Forest facility represents a strategic investment aimed at increasing production capacity and strengthening IMI’s ability to serve global energy markets. The site has been designed with advanced manufacturing workflows to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and support long-term operational scalability.
Sustainability has been embedded into the design and construction of the facility from the outset. A rooftop and parking-integrated solar energy system, scheduled for installation shortly, is expected to offset approximately 80–90% of the site’s electricity consumption. The facility operates with fully electric heating and appliances, while natural gas usage is limited strictly to welding applications.
To reduce environmental impact further, electrical discharge machining and painting operations have been outsourced to eliminate major sources of volatile organic compound emissions. The facility also includes infrastructure for nine electric vehicle charging stations at launch, with expansion capability up to 27 stations.
Water management systems include an underground stormwater retention network combined with seven modular wetland treatment zones before discharge. The building has been developed in alignment with LEED certification principles, reinforcing IMI’s commitment to sustainable industrial operations.
Additional efficiency upgrades include a laser overlay welder scheduled for installation in 2026, expected to significantly reduce welding gas consumption. Collectively, these measures position the Lake Forest facility as a modern, high-efficiency manufacturing hub supporting IMI’s long-term growth strategy in global energy markets.
