Aurora Pump Company Asbestos Exposure

Aurora Pump Company | History of Asbestos | Pentair Pump Group
By Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States – Pentair – US Headquarters Office Building, CC BY 2.0

The Introduction of Asbestos (1927-1985)

Following its emergence from bankruptcy in 1927, Aurora Pump Company underwent a significant transformation. The company shifted its focus to turbine pumps and began incorporating asbestos-containing parts into its products. This marked the beginning of Aurora Pump Company’s nearly six-decade-long use of asbestos in its manufacturing processes.

During these years, the company expanded its product range and continued to use asbestos in the production of various types of pumps beyond just turbine pumps.

According to Casetext, the Korol vs. Aurora Pump Company case states that in asbestos-related lawsuits, a plaintiff’s ability to oppose a motion for summary judgment using indirect evidence relies on how often they encountered the asbestos-containing product and how consistently they worked near it. Simply showing asbestos was present isn’t enough; they must demonstrate they worked close to where the product was used.

Ownership Changes and Challenges (1930s-1960s)

Aurora Pump Company’s journey was characterized by changes in ownership. In 1937, the original founders sold the company to Frank Main and Lionel Claypool, a decision influenced by poor sales during the Great Depression. Despite their efforts, sales remained challenging, forcing them to sell some pumps as scrap to meet payroll.

The company’s fortunes changed during World War II when asbestos became widely used in various industries for its fire-resistant properties. Aurora Pump Company’s asbestos pumps found favor with the United States Army and Navy, leading to increased business and accolades.

In 1952, New York Air Brake acquired Aurora Pump Company and, in 1954, it officially became a division of the company. This period saw further diversification into the chemical pump industry.

Continued Asbestos Use (1952-1985)

Despite changing hands, Aurora Pump Company continued to utilize asbestos in its products. Asbestos was present in various pump types, and the company’s products remained in demand.

In the late 1960s, Aurora Pump Company was sold to General Signal Company, and asbestos use persisted until 1985. In 1997, Pentair Pump Group, Inc. acquired the company, and it remains under their ownership to this day.

Asbestos Products and Risks

Aurora Pump Company’s asbestos-containing products gained popularity due to their durability and resistance to heat and fire. These qualities made them suitable for use in pump rooms and various applications, including on ships during World War II.

However, the danger lies in the potential release of asbestos fibers when these materials deteriorate or undergo maintenance. Airborne asbestos fibers can pose severe health risks when inhaled or ingested.

Occupational Exposure and Health Risks

Occupational exposure to asbestos was a significant concern for individuals who worked with or around Aurora Pump Company’s products. Those who served in the Navy and worked in confined pump rooms faced a heightened risk due to the lack of proper ventilation, leading to concentrated asbestos fibers.

Other high-risk occupations included firefighters, construction workers, and tradespeople who frequently handled asbestos-containing materials. Prolonged exposure to asbestos can result in asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer.