#United States #Philadelphia #Active Radiator #Cincinnati Radiator #Ohio Heat Transfer

LDR Partners LP Acquires Active Radiator

In a significant move within the heavy manufacturing sector, LDR Partners LP announced the acquisition of Active Radiator, a prominent U.S. manufacturer known for its robust portfolio of heavy-duty cooling solutions. This noteworthy transaction, which closed on July 3, 2025, was financed using funds from LDR Growth Partners Fund I LP and its affiliates. As part of this strategic initiative, Active Radiator will join forces with Cincinnati Radiator and Ohio Heat Transfer under a unified operational umbrella named Active Thermal Solutions.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1940, Active Radiator is headquartered in Philadelphia and has built a commendable legacy over its 85 years in the commercial and industrial heat exchanger market. Active operates across 13 locations in nine states, offering a comprehensive lineup of cooling products including heavy-duty radiators, charge air coolers, oil coolers, compressors, and fabricated aluminum components.

Their expansive manufacturing footprint spans 141,000 square feet with an additional 90,000 square feet dedicated to storage, ensuring they meet varied customer needs, from original equipment manufacturing (OEM) to aftermarket services. Active’s cutting-edge manufacturing capabilities encompass:

• - Specialization in Class 6–8 vehicle products for major brands such as Autocar, Freightliner, and Volvo.
• - In-house mechanical engineering for design, reverse engineering, and production of discontinued parts.
• - State-of-the-art aluminum core manufacturing processes, utilizing Controlled Atmosphere Brazing (CAB) furnaces.
• - Advanced fabrication infrastructure that includes CNC machines and laser cutters.
• - Production capabilities for Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) aligned with leading engine manufacturers.

Marty Newell, the second-generation owner of Active and the newly appointed CEO of Active Thermal Solutions, expressed that the partnership with LDR was critical for safeguarding the company's commitment to quality and customer service. He stated, "Active has evolved into a nationwide entity owing to our steadfast dedication to high manufacturing standards and customer satisfaction. Finding a partner who values integrity and shares our vision was paramount."

Empowered by Collaboration

LDR Partners' Richard Sexton affirmed the firm's confidence in the thermal management sector and highlighted the core values that make this partnership significant. With the integration of Cincinnati Radiator and Ohio Heat Transfer, both of which are recognized for their ISO 9001 certified manufacturing capabilities, this strategic union bolsters the operational prowess of Active Thermal Solutions. Together, these companies will form the largest U.S. manufacturing platform specializing in aluminum industrial heat exchangers.

Cincinnati Radiator (established in 1994) and Ohio Heat Transfer (established in 2003) are lauded for their rapid response times and reliability within the critical industrial sector, servicing clients across various fields, including power generation, earthmoving, and hydraulic systems.

A Vision for Future Innovation

The consolidated operations will span 15 locations and feature over 300,000 square feet dedicated to manufacturing and service excellence. Active Thermal Solutions aims to address a wide array of sectors:

• - Agricultural equipment
• - Mass transit and lift trucks
• - Construction and industrial machinery
• - Class 5–8 commercial vehicles
• - Aerospace and power generation industries

This integrated platform is poised to leverage in-house engineering capabilities, high-volume custom fabrication, and the most extensive collection of CAB and Vacuum Aluminum Brazing (VAB) furnaces nationwide. As they look ahead, the team at Active Thermal Solutions intends to continue investing in product innovations, enhancing OEM collaborations, and expanding their national network for aftermarket repair and distribution services.

Ryan Martin, Managing Partner at LDR, believes that this acquisition is a testament to the enduring strength of American manufacturing and highlights the significance of domestic supply chain resilience. He remarked, "This transaction symbolizes a new chapter in an 85-year legacy and confirms our commitment to supporting exceptional U.S.-based industrial enterprises."

Conclusion

Through the acquisition of Active Radiator, LDR Partners sets the stage for a formidable presence in heavy manufacturing that could redefine the industrial cooling equipment landscape in America. The collaboration among these key players not only emphasizes the importance of innovative manufacturing but also highlights a pledge to uphold quality and customer-centric values as they navigate the future of the industry.