East Penn Mfg Co Inc
Electrical wires and optical fibers
Company Overview
East Penn Manufacturing is a family-owned company established in 1946, operating the world's largest single-site lead battery manufacturing facility in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Founded by DeLight Jr. and Sr., the company began by rebuilding batteries and has since grown into a global leader with over 10,500 employees, offering more than 515 product designs. East Penn emphasizes a strong, family-focused culture, evidenced by its consistent recognition as a 'Best Place to Work in PA' and 'America's Best Employers'. The company's core values prioritize customers, employees, continuous improvement, and environmental stewardship. Its operations extend internationally through East Penn International and include specialized lithium battery technology via Navitas Systems, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Products and Services
East Penn, under its Deka® brand, provides a diverse range of energy storage solutions for various applications. For material handling, it offers Deka Ready Power lithium-ion, gel, and flooded batteries, including models with integrated chargers. The Deka Ready Power Li-ion batteries are UL certified (UL 2580, 1998, 991) and feature active cooling and robust cells for high-temperature operation. In reserve power, East Penn manufactures VRLA batteries (AGM, Gel, Deka Synergy®, Deka UltraBattery®) for critical backup in telecommunications (5G), UPS, and renewable energy systems. These incorporate proprietary technologies like Individual Plate Formation (IPF®) and Microcat® Catalyst for extended design life. The transportation sector benefits from batteries for automotive, commercial, marine, and EV/hybrid vehicles, including the Deka Fahrenheit with Thermal Shielding Technology for commercial trucks. Additionally, East Penn supplies wire, cable, and battery accessories, managing production from raw copper rod to finished clamps.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Sustainability is a foundational principle at East Penn, integrated into its business model since inception. The company employs a closed-loop manufacturing approach, recycling nearly 100% of spent batteries—approximately 30,000 daily. This commitment is highlighted by its 98% UL Recycled Content Validation for transportation batteries. East Penn's facilities include an EPA permitted lead smelter and refinery, plastic recycling, and an acid reclamation plant, recycling vast quantities of lead, plastic, and acid annually. The company also recycles 100% of its industrial wastewater. Through continuous R&D, East Penn develops advanced lead-based technologies for electric vehicles, smart grids, and renewable energy, demonstrating a dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting environmental excellence.
