The Mapes Piano String Co
Metal wire
Company Overview and Heritage
Mapes is an American family-owned business with a distinguished legacy spanning over four generations in industrial and specialty wire manufacturing. Situated in Elizabethton, Tennessee, the company prides itself on over a century of 'Made in the USA' craftsmanship and ingenuity. Mapes has established itself as America's premier source for a broad spectrum of specialized wire solutions, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to quality, domestic production, and enduring American manufacturing traditions.
Specialized Products and Offerings
The company provides a diverse range of wire products, meticulously designed to cater to various industrial and specialized needs. This comprehensive portfolio includes general industrial and specialty wires, alongside meeting the precise requirements for musical strings. A particularly distinctive offering is their Ultra High Tensile Missile Wire, highlighted as a unique product that may be challenging to source from other manufacturers. Mapes also produces High Carbon Steel Wire, specifically engineered for mechanical spring makers and a multitude of other demanding applications, as well as Small Diameter Tinned High Carbon Steel Wire. To accommodate the varied logistical and operational specifications of its clientele, Mapes offers several flexible packaging options, including Large Coils, Catch-Weight Coils, 30″ Reels, 18/22″ Reels, and Reel-Less Cores.
Innovation, Sustainability, and Environmental Stewardship
Mapes demonstrates a robust commitment to both innovation and environmental responsibility. The company holds six individual registered patent trademarks for the production of specific wires, underscoring its dedication to advanced manufacturing techniques. Furthermore, Mapes operates with a strong focus on sustainability; its manufacturing plant is entirely powered by eco-friendly hydroelectric electricity. For decades, the company has actively maintained a low voltage operational profile, notably integrating servo motors as a key component of its energy efficiency strategy. Environmentally conscious practices extend to rigorous waste reduction, where every pound of scrap wire is collected daily, minimized through process improvements, and ultimately sent back for re-smelting. Additionally, water used in their processes is treated to ensure it leaves their facility cleaner than it initially arrived, showcasing a holistic approach to environmental stewardship and American craftsmanship.
