China Wind Systems Inc. recently announced it is expanding its precision forging operations, targeting second quarter 2010 for the additional capacity to come online.

The company is using electro slag remelting (ESR) technology to produce its precision forgings. One key application for those forgings will be wind turbine bearings.

Producing precision forgings is another key to China becoming domestically self-sufficient in manufacturing large precision slewing ring bearings for the fast-growing and state-mandated wind turbine industry.

China Wind Systems' CEO, Wu Jianhua, said: "ESR technology is utilized to increase the durability and quality of steel material used in high quality yaw bearings and other high performance components. We are confident that by manufacturing these high end forged products, we will enhance our brand recognition in the industry and increase our profitability."

ESR is a steelmaking technology that remelts an electrode-shaped ingot in a water-cooled copper mold containing electrically heated conductive slag. A low-inclusion, high-strength forging results.

Reportedly, China Wind Systems reportedly already has a bearing manufacturer in line to take the majority of the ESR forging output 5251R9N7 when it comes online.