Bucyrus International Inc., the mining machinery manufacturer that recently purchased DBT America Inc., has opened a new, 50-employee belt-systems facility in Pearisburg.

The facility, which is located adjacent to Bucyrus' existing service center, produces belt-terminal groups for the company's North American markets, serving customers in surface and underground mining.

"This facility will eliminate the need for occasional outsourcing, is in close proximity to our engineering and quoting departments in Pulaski, Virginia, and provides for optimization of production processes which will help us in reaching peak efficiencies," Bucyrus Chief Operating Officer Luis de Leon said in a news release. "This facility allows for growth in meeting the increasing demand for our belt systems and components."

The facility's opening is also good news for Giles County.

"We are thrilled that Bucyrus is making this investment in our community," Lee Wheeler, chairman of the Giles County Industrial Development Authority, said in a statement. "They provide consistent, quality employment opportunities and are excellent corporate neighbors."

Bucyrus is headquartered in South Milwaukee, Wis.

-- Angela Manese-Lee