About Orthman

Conveying Equipment & Contract Manufacturing,
Built in Cleburne, TX.

Orthman delivers bulk material handling solutions and contract manufacturing services from our purpose-built facility in Cleburne, Texas — rooted in manufacturing excellence since 1967.

Our Story

Orthman’s roots trace back to 1967, when Henry Orthman established Orthman Manufacturing, Inc. (OMI) in Lexington, Nebraska — building durable, high-quality equipment for American agriculture. In 2002, recognizing the growing demand for bulk material handling, OMI launched the Screw Conveyor Division, officially known as Orthman Conveying Systems (OCS).

In 2022, OCS relocated to Cleburne, Texas and became an independent entity under the leadership of Jimmy Rios. Today, Orthman delivers both bulk material handling solutions and contract manufacturing services — rooted in manufacturing excellence, driven by innovation and long-term partnerships.

Strategic Partnership

Strengthened by Strategic Investment

The leadership team at Flat Water is committed to enhancing Orthman's capabilities through strategic investment — directing resources toward advanced technologies, process optimization, and expanded production capacity. This partnership reinforces a shared commitment to the long-term success of Orthman Conveying and Manufacturing.

Advanced Technologies

Investment in cutting-edge manufacturing equipment and digital systems to deliver higher precision and faster turnaround.

Process Optimization

Streamlining production workflows and quality control systems to maximize efficiency and consistency across every project.

Expanded Capacity

Growing production capabilities to serve more clients across conveying equipment and contract manufacturing operations.

What We Do

Two business lines under one roof — conveying systems engineering and full-service contract manufacturing.

Screw Conveyors

Custom-engineered screw conveyor systems for bulk material handling across agriculture, food, chemical, and industrial applications.

Belt Conveyors

Heavy-duty belt conveyor systems designed for high-volume material transport with reliable, low-maintenance operation.

Drag Conveyors

En-masse drag conveyor systems built for gentle material handling where product integrity matters.

Bucket Elevators

Vertical material handling solutions engineered for dependable performance in demanding environments.

Flat Cutting & Laser

Precision flat cutting and laser services for custom parts, prototypes, and production runs.

CNC Machining

Computer-controlled machining for tight-tolerance components and complex geometries.

Welding & Fabrication

Certified welding and custom metal fabrication from carbon steel to stainless and aluminum.

Finishing & Assembly

Surface preparation, coating, painting, and final assembly — complete turnkey manufacturing.

Our Journey

The Foundation
1967
The Foundation
Henry Orthman established Orthman Manufacturing, Inc. (OMI) in Lexington, Nebraska. From the beginning, the company focused on durable, high-quality equipment designed to meet the practical needs of American agriculture.
Expanding Innovation
1978
Expanding Innovation
Under the leadership of Bill Orthman, the company entered a new phase of growth. With a strong emphasis on engineering and product development, OMI expanded its capabilities and continued to push beyond traditional farming equipment, laying the groundwork for future diversification.
Strategic Growth
2000
Strategic Growth
John McCoy acquired OMI and led the organization for over two decades. During this period, the company strengthened its operational foundation and positioned itself for expansion into new industrial markets.
Birth of Conveying Expertise
2002
Birth of Conveying Expertise
Recognizing the growing demand for bulk material handling solutions, OMI launched the Screw Conveyor Division, officially known as Orthman Conveying Systems (OCS). This marked a pivotal shift — moving beyond agriculture into industrial applications, developing specialized expertise in screw conveyors and bulk handling systems, and serving industries including mining, aggregates, and processing.
A New Chapter Begins
2022
A New Chapter Begins
OCS took a major step forward by relocating to Cleburne, Texas and becoming an independent entity: Orthman Conveying Systems, LLC. Under the leadership of Jimmy Rios, the company officially opened its doors as a standalone organization, fully dedicated to conveying systems and manufacturing excellence. Alongside this transition, Pen Steel was acquired and now operates as a sister company, expanding overall capabilities in contract manufacturing and custom fabrication. Together, the two organizations create stronger, more integrated manufacturing platforms supporting both conveying systems and contract manufacturing needs.
Who We Are Today
Today
Who We Are Today
Orthman Conveying Systems stands as a purpose-built company delivering both bulk material handling solutions and contract manufacturing services. While we continue to specialize in conveying systems, our broader focus is on manufacturing — leveraging our expertise, equipment, and processes to support partners across a wide range of industries. Rooted in manufacturing excellence, our future is driven by innovation, efficiency, and long-term partnerships.

By The Numbers

57+
Years of Heritage
60K
Sq Ft Facility
2
Business Lines, One Roof
24/7
Production Capability

Ready to Work With Orthman?

Whether you need conveying equipment or a contract manufacturing partner, let's talk.