Franklin Electric evolved from its WWII roots to become a global water industry leader through innovation and strategic growth.
Franklin Electric, a name synonymous with innovation and reliability, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1944 in Bluffton, Indiana, US. Established by E.J. Schaefer and T.W. Kehoe, the company was named in honour of Benjamin Franklin, who they considered the first electrical engineer. Since its humble beginnings as a small motor manufacturing company, Franklin Electric has grown into a global leader in the water and fuel systems industry.
Early beginnings
Franklin Electric’s journey began with the production of a backpack generator designed to power radio equipment for paratroopers during World War II. This initial product set the stage for the company’s future innovations. Over the decades, Franklin Electric expanded its product line and market reach, becoming a trusted name in residential, industrial, agricultural, mining, municipal, commercial and fuelling applications.
In 1962, Franklin Electric established its presence in Australia to support the local water industry. This move began a long-standing commitment to providing high-quality water systems solutions to the Australian market.
Global consolidation
In 2020, Franklin Electric took a significant step towards global integration by consolidating its Water Business Group under the banner of One Franklin Electric company. This strategic move aimed to streamline operations and enhance the company’s ability to serve its global customer base more effectively.
As part of this consolidation, Franklin Electric Australia and Pioneer Pump Holdings Australia merged to form Franklin Electric Australia New Zealand. This new entity operates two critical facilities: the warehouse and assembly facility in Dandenong South, Victoria, and the fabrication assembly and test facility in Sunshine West, Victoria. A logistics warehouse in Ravenhall, Victoria, also supports the company’s operations.
Expertise and product range
One of Franklin Electric’s most significant assets is its wealth of experience. With hundreds of years of combined expertise, the company’s staff is well-equipped to assist customers with a wide range of pumping applications. This extensive knowledge base ensures that Franklin Electric can provide tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
Today, Franklin Electric offers an expansive range of products, including:
- Surface mount pumps: ISO, split case, multi-stage, small and large centrifugal motor pumps
- Progressive cavity pumps: mono and self-priming ranges
- Solar pumps and equipment: catering to the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions
- Below ground pumps: submersible turbine, line shaft, bore hole and dewatering pumps
These products are designed to handle everything from small volume, low head applications to extremely high volumes (up to 2500 LPS) and discharge heads exceeding 300 meters. This comprehensive product range makes Franklin Electric one of the largest suppliers of pumping and associated products globally.
Commitment to innovation
Franklin Electric’s commitment to innovation is evident in its continuous efforts to improve and expand its product offerings. The company’s relocation in 2013 from its original headquarters in Bluffton, Indiana, to a new global headquarters and Centre of Design Excellence in Fort Wayne, Indiana, underscores this dedication. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a hub for research and development, ensuring that Franklin Electric remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the industry.
Global reach
Franklin Electric’s global footprint is extensive, with manufacturing and distribution facilities in numerous countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, and the United States. This widespread presence enables the company to serve clients worldwide, providing reliable and efficient water and fuelling systems solutions.
The company’s primary markets include water transfer and grey water systems, clean water systems and fuelling systems. Franklin Electric has the expertise and products to meet diverse needs, whether it’s a submersible pump for a clean well water system or an industrial water pump for a larger application.
Franklin Electric’s journey from a small motor manufacturing company to a global leader in water and fuelling systems is a testament to its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Franklin Electric continues to set the standard for excellence in the industry with a rich history, extensive product range and a global presence.
As the company moves forward, it remains dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers, ensuring that “Moving Water is Our Business” is more than just a slogan — it’s a promise.
Image: Franklin Electric