A LEED-Designed "Green" Manufacturing Facility
Thirty years ago, a sintering plant stood where we stand today. Choosing to build our state-of-the-art facility on this designated brownfield site was Castcon’s first step in creating a workplace that’s healthier for not just our employees, but for the planet. Not only that, it was the first “green” industrial building in Butler County, Pennsylvania.
Today, the site has been completely remediated by the Butler County Community Development Corporation (CDC). With help from the CDC, the industrial park now has an infrastructure with all utilities in place. In addition, the location is considered a Keystone Opportunity Zone by the state.
LEED Design reflects our values and vision for the future of our industry.
We are proud that our facility meets the standards of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). Registration and certification are granted by the US Green Building Council, a coalition of leaders in the building industry who are working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable, and healthy places to live and work. This certification is currently pending with the USGBC.
The Castcon facility has won both Pittsburgh Chapter and Pennsylvania AIA Design awards for Green Buildings.
The new facility features a number of green features such as:
- Natural light from low-E glass windows and clerestory panels not only requires less electricity, it creates a brighter workplace, which studies have shown leads to improved productivity.
- Natural ventilation from operable windows are located throughout the building, saving on air conditioning and improving air quality.
- Energy efficient lighting and HVAC building automation connects lights and thermostats to motion and sound sensors so that lights are automatically turned off and heat and air conditioning is reduced in empty offices, bathrooms, and work areas.
- Energy recovery wheels are used to preheat or pre-cool the outside air.
- Storm water from the parking area collects in a natural retention pond, which treats any chemicals and gasoline residue and eliminates the need for extensive underground PVC piping.
- Paint and carpets are VOC (volatile organic compounds) free. Also, carpet is made from recycled carpeting and woodwork is finished with plain shellac.
Guided tours of the Castcon facility are available by appointment. Products are on display throughout the plant and yard. For more information on the LEED program and the U.S. Green Building Council, visit www.usgbc.org.