The Abex Corporation

The Abex Corporation, a Virginia-based company that specialized in asbestos brakes, faced many mesothelioma lawsuits over the years. The company eventually lost millions to these claims. The company also left behind a heavily contaminated Superfund site.

If you suffer from mesothelioma, asbestosis, or asbestos-related lung cancer, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. Fill out our form to get a free Financial Compensation Packet. You’ll learn about the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in your area, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a claim for the asbestos trust funds, and more.

History of The Abex Corporation

Established in 1928, the Abex Corporation originally began as the American Brake Shoe and Foundry. In addition to manufacturing asbestos brakes, the company produced wheels for railroad cars and hydraulic systems for vessels and planes.

In 1968, Illinois Central Industries Inc. purchased Abex and, ten years later, merged it with the Pneumo Corporation, creating the Pneumo Abex Corporation.

After the merger, the company added more products to its manufacturing line, including industrial and aerospace fluid products.

Almost every product that Abex manufactured contained asbestos. The company continued to use asbestos until 1978. Consequently, people began developing asbestos-related illnesses. Many mesothelioma lawsuits followed. Today, Federal-Mogul owns the Abex brand.

Abex Conceals the Dangers of Asbestos

Although many lawsuits surfaced after Abex closed its doors, one particular case resulted in information that the company willingly withheld information on the dangers of asbestos.

Abex knew of the life-threatening hazards that can occur after inhaling asbestos fibers, but they concealed the details from employees and contractors.

A jury found the company guilty of knowingly and willingly concealing asbestos hazards. The plaintiff won $20 million.

Workers Affected By Asbestos

Metalworkers at Abex were affected the most by asbestos. However, thousands of workers across many different companies were also affected, including those who installed Abex products into automobiles and trains and mechanics who repaired and replaced asbestos-containing parts.

The following Abex products included asbestos and put workers at risk of exposure and illness:

• Brakes
• Power fluid
• Hydraulic systems
• Aerospace products
• Railroad car components
• Industrial products

EPA Names Abex a Superfund Site

A Superfund site is an abandoned or closed area contaminated by hazardous materials. The hazardous wastes are so severe that the ecosystem and local residents are affected.

After investigating the site, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) named Abex as one of the most hazardous waste sites in the nation, containing not only asbestos but excessive amounts of lead.

In 1992, the federal government ordered the company to clean up the site and remove the soil.

If you worked for Abex or used the company’s asbestos products, a mesothelioma lawyer can help you seek compensation.

Legal Resources For Those Affected By Asbestos

Remember, if you or a loved one have been injured by asbestos, there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable compensation. Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on the experienced asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys in your area.