Clextral, a world leader in twin-screw extrusion for food and cellulose materials in Firminy, France, has acquired Sudamerinox in Rancagua, Chile. Sudamerinox specializes in mounting, welding and manufacturing stainless steel subassemblies.

Frédéric Berrone, Sudamerinox’s general manager and founder and a 30-year food industry veteran, and Eduardo Carrasco, Sudamerinox’s production manager, will continue their work at Clextral Chile.

Clextral says the acquisition will enable it to accelerate its expansion in North America as well as in countries that are trade partners with Chile. Chile has free-trade agreements with 58 countries.