FTZ Background

FTZ Industries was founded in 1977 to fill a growing need in the heavy-duty transportation market for high quality electrical components. Since our inception we have grown to reach multiple markets across the United States and Canada.

FTZ is continually striving to bring our distributors innovative and superior products that provide them the most complete electrical package in the industry. Our industry leading innovations include:

• Crimp ‘N Seal Extreme – the original heat shrink terminal and splices first introduced in 1983 provided the durability of a nylon insulated terminal with the waterproof protection of polyolefin heat shrink tubing.
• Crimp ‘N Seal – the second generation heat shrink terminal introduced in 1987 has become the standard in the industry.
• Correct Connect Bi-Metal Battery Terminal – This revolutionary battery terminal designed in 2003 provides a highly conductive, corrosion resistant connection that outperforms other die cast alternatives.

In 1989 FTZ merged with Ilsco. With this new synergy, FTZ expanded it’s products and services to provide distributors a complete source for all of their electrical component needs. From heavy duty transportation and marine to industrial electrical FTZ has the high quality innovative products your looking for.

ILSCO Background

ILSCO was established in 1894 as the Incandescent Light and Stove Company by tinsmith and inventor Joseph Stubbers. In its first 15 years, Stubber's company sold 85,000 gas systems in the U.S. and abroad.

Municipal lighting systems rendered gas systems obsolete after 1910, but ILSCO's power distribution capabilities evolved with the industry. Around 1913, ILSCO introduced a single-cylinder gas engine which enabled an electric current to run from a generator to outlets throughout a house.

During World War 1, as electrical systems continued to replace gas systems, ILSCO produced battery connectors for such customers as Cooper Batteries and Ford Motor Company. Also around this time, ILSCO developed equipment to draw copper tubing, allowing the company to rapidly deliver finished products.

In 1935, ILSCO introduced the SLU line, one of the first solderless terminals that is now recognized as the forerunner of many modern connectors. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, ILSCO developed innovative connector designs for manufacturers, contractors and utility companies, and during World War II, ILSCO manufactured muter tubes for government projects.

ILSCO became a manufacturing branch of the new Bardes Corporation in 1954 when controlling interest was sold to Oliver Bardes of E.H. Bardes Range & Foundry Company. In January, 1962, ILSCO began constructing a second manufacturing and sales operation in Ontario, Canada. Growth and expansion continued as ILSCO looked outside of its core market of OEM's to target electrical contractors and utilities as end users of their continually expanding product line. Aluminum was introduced in 1959, and throughout the 1960s ILSCO pioneered the development of aluminum mechanical connectors, enhancing their success in all markets.

ILSCO experienced unmatched sales growth through the 1970s, '80s and '90s, while a stream of new product introductions continued. ILSCO further diversified its product line with several important acquisitions, including Deerfield Connector, Kentucky Connector, Kupler, Glenmoor Screw Machine, FTZ Industries, Tool Engineering Service, and National Aluminum - Brass Foundry. ILSCO's strong record of investment in electronic commerce, capital equipment, new product development, and state-of-the-art cellular manufacturing matches its aggressive entrepreneurial spirit. ILSCO plans on-going company growth through acquisitions, e-business initiatives and product development in order to optimize service to our customers in the 21st century.

ILSCO's Manufacturing Capabilities

Our manufacturing expertise extends to metal extrusion, tube processing and finishing, cutoff, press forming, punching, and electroplating, to industry specifications or customized to your own individual specs. Cell manufacturing techniques furnish unmatched flexibility in providing the right product for your application, while warehouse inventory assures product availability and prompt delivery. The ILSCO commitment to R&D ensures innovative designs for products that conform to UL and CSA certifications or your own quality control specifications.

If you find that your individual connector requirements do not resemble a standard product, ILSCO will provide a prompt quotation on your custom connector manufacturing needs, including special dimensions, unique conductor sizes, special plating needs, special marking requirements on barrel or tang, and unusual packing requirements.