NSF Controls is set to expand its Keighley manufacturing operations with the acquisition of Waddoups Hardy.

Waddoups Hardy, which is also based in Keighley, provides a service for mild steel and similar materials.

NSF Controls, which supplies electro-mechanical products, hopes the acquisition will safeguard its supply and generate new business opportunities.

The firm, which has used Waddoups Hardy for several years, will move the slitting operation into its own design and manufacturing facility at Ingrow Bridge Works. NSF will continue to supply Waddoup Hardy's existing customers with material which has been converted from steel mill widths to sizes suitable for press tool designs.

NSF says the acquisition will help reduce its costs and safeguard the supply of steel strips it uses in its products which include high performance switches and solenoids.

Les Bennett, general manager for NSF Controls, said: "The acquisition of Waddoups Hardy represents a significant milestone in NSF's development and it will reduce our material costs, provide greater flexibility in product design and ensure our long-term commercial success through the creation of new business opportunities." NSF has recently completed a number of deals to help its commercial development.

The firm recently purchased the site it has operated from since 1948 for £600,000.

It had leased the site from former owners Lucas Control Systems.

The future of NSF Controls was secured in 1997 following a management buy-out.

Staff at the firm had faced the axe when Lucas decided to close the Ingrow Bridge works.

NSF employs around 80 staff at its Ingrow site.