A FIRM which supplies silicone sponge for photocopiers across China and the United States and engine gaskets for the German motor industry is bouncing back despite the recession.

The future of Blackburn Advanced Silicones looked doomed when it went into liquidation earlier this month due to the economic crisis and downturn in UK manufacturing.

The firm, known as ADSIL, was the first in Europe to specialise in the production and development of silicone sponge components when it was established in 1987.

The firm makes products can be found in many of the everyday things we take for granted.

Typical uses range from oven door seals, engine gaskets, light seals, window seals, train and carriage seals, boilers, photocopier rollers and transfer printing pressure pads for T-shirts and sports wear.

But, following hard work by the Adsil management team, a new buyer has been found, securing the company’s workforce.

The SFS Manufacturing Group, which is one of the world’s leading silicone rubber manufactures, has acquired the assets of Advanced Silicones for an undisclosed sum.

The deal will increase turnover of the group to over £2million over the next year.

Silicone rubber is used in applications ranging from bakeware to outdoor lighting and turbocharger and cooling systems. It offers resistance to temperatures ranging from minus 55°C up to 300°C.

SFS plan to expand the business by investment into new plant and equipment and the introduction of a wider product range.

Tony Parker, site director of the SFS Shadsworth site, said: “While Adsil have been widely recognised over 20 years as a market leader is sponge silicone rubber products, SFS have successfully grown their own business, based on production of specialist silicone hoses for the performance car market, as well as solid silicone rubber seals and gaskets. “The combination of both product ranges and the addition of new equipment will bring great opportunities for growth in the coming years. “It is very exciting to have the backing , experience and knowledge of the SFS Manufacturing Group, to call upon.”

Jackie Bullock, office manager, said: “Its is a huge relief that we have managed to keep our jobs, thanks to the confidence that SFS have shown in us. It was a scary prospect facing unemployment.

“We may only be a small company, but in the grand scheme of things it is important we keep jobs in the area.”

The firm is also hoping to secure a grant from Regenerate Pennine Lancashire which would allow the current workforce of 13 to be substantially increased as new products come on stream in Blackburn.

Bosses are also in discussion to take on two new apprentices.