Graham Tours New Rare-Earth Magnet Plant

Senator Lindsey Graham visited eVAC Magnetics’ newly completed manufacturing facility in Sumter, South Carolina, highlighting a step toward onshoring rare-earth magnet production.
Operated by Germany-based VACUUMSCHMELZE (VAC), the plant is configured to produce high-performance rare-earth permanent magnets (REPMs) using proprietary manufacturing processes aimed at lightweight, high-energy applications for defense and clean-energy systems.
Production is expected to begin within weeks, with full operational capacity targeted in early 2026. The facility will create about 300 full-time skilled positions in Sumter County and supports Department of Defense priorities to diversify critical materials supply chains away from concentrated foreign sources.
Executive Chairman Troy Thacker briefed the senator on the plant’s technology and emphasized plans for collaboration to strengthen domestic manufacturing and military readiness. With production readiness imminent, eVAC Magnetics joins a small but growing group of U.S.-based REPM producers, signaling renewed momentum in rebuilding a strategic magnets supply chain.