1997 – 2001

For the purpose of expanding their manufacturing capabilities, a decision was made by management in Japan to build a 60,000 sq. ft. facility on the southeast corner of the existing shop on Lake Street in Kent, Ohio.

In April, KENT Demolition introduced the full line of F-Series Hydraulic Breakers. This complete redesign replaces the long-running G-Series.

Furukawa introduces their new Tier III Top Hammer Blasthole Drills; HCR 900 HCR 1200 HCR 1500.

In 2001 the difficult decision was made by Furukawa Rock Drill Japan to cease all manufacturing at the Gougler shop and to redefine USA operations as a ‘Sales Subsidiary’ by putting all focus into two newly formed divisions; Rock Drill Division, & Breaker-Attachment Division.