Victaulic Co. is in Forks Township, in the Lehigh Valley. Company spokesman Eric Luftig says the economic downturn is to blame.
The company has laid off hundreds of workers in recent years as demand has declined for its pipe couplings.
Steelworkers Union officials said the union and the company have been embroiled in a contract dispute over wages and health benefits.
Talks between the union and the company are scheduled to resume March 19. Workers voted unanimously against going on strike and agreeing to work under the old contract, which expired Jan. 31.
Information from: The Morning Call, http://www.mcall.com
