The Lincoln Electric Co. (www.lincolnelectric.com) has agreed to acquire a 115,00 sq. ft. facility next to its headquarters in Euclid, Ohio, to build a state-oftheart machine robotics-welding center.

The company reportedly will make a $40 million investment in the facility. Lincoln spokesman Roy Morrow confirmed the company's plans to purchase and renovate the former Hitachi Heavy Equipment site, but declined to discuss details.