Strong Machine Clothing Performance
Machine Clothing net sales increased by 9.9% year-over-year to $183 million, driven by the Heimbach acquisition, with a gross margin improvement from 47.6% to 48.6%.
Free Cash Flow and Balance Sheet Strength
Free cash flow reached $78 million year-to-date, with a strong balance sheet evidenced by a cash balance of $127 million and $440 million of borrowing capacity.
Solid Defense Business Growth
The defense business continues to grow, primarily on the CH-53K and JASSM platforms, despite some reductions in Joint Strike Fighter program this year.
Increased Adjusted EBITDA Margins in Machine Clothing
Adjusted EBITDA margins in Machine Clothing were 35.2%, up from 34.5% in the previous year, reflecting improved operations and execution.