MRC SGL Precursor Co. Ltd. (MSP) – the joint venture between Mitsubishi Rayon Co. Ltd. (MRC) and SGL Group – has successfully and on schedule started its production of precursor, the raw material for carbon fibers. The joint venture plant in Otake was not affected by the earthquake in Japan.
Dr. Jurgen Kohler, Chairman of SGL Group’s Business Unit Carbon Fibers & Composite Materials: “The objective of our joint venture with Mitsubishi Rayon is to ensure the exclusive 50k precursor supply for SGL Group and consequently also for SGL Automotive Carbon Fibers, our joint venture with the BMW Group. Thanks to the close cooperation with our partner Mitsubishi Rayon, we were able to set up the new precursor production within the challenging time schedule as announced one year ago. We are now ready to provide precursor, which is a key success factor for the carbon fibers and fabrics used in the new BMW i3.”
Takahiro Ono, Representative Director of MSP: “We are proud to be a partner of SGL Group and the BMW Group in this milestone project for the automotive industry. We did everything possible to fulfill the high expectations of SGL Automotive Carbon Fibers and meet the tight schedule during these difficult times.”
The joint venture has successfully completed the commissioning phase and has assumed commercial production of precursor. MSP is based at the MRC production site in Otake/Japan and will deliver first commercial quantities of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) based precursor to SGL Automotive Carbon Fibers (SGL ACF) in the second quarter of this year.
Lucintel Newsletter
Monday, May 23, 2011
Worldwide Wind Competitive Analysis and Leadership Study 2010: Lucintel Identifies Industry Leaders
The business of generating electricity from wind is growing and is set to expand as the US, China, and the rest of the world look for cleaner, more sustainable ways to generate electricity.
Lucintel believes that volatility in fossil fuel costs, coupled with the environmental problems and incentives in different countries for developing wind energy, could be positive factors, driving increased acceptance of environmentally friendly technologies such as wind.
In a new research report, “Worldwide Wind Competitive Analysis and Leadership Study 2010,” Lucintel's analysts examine and profile nine of the world's leading wind turbine manufacturers. The report offers a full competitive analysis of target markets, product mapping, and production capabilities. Lucintel also provides its own scorecard of those companies that are better aligned with future market opportunities and have the capability to gain additional market share.
Collected from a series of primary interviews and secondary sources, this report provides complete profiles of the following companies:
• Vestas
• GE
• Suzlon
• Sinovel
• Enercon
• Gamesa
• Goldwind
• Siemens
• Dongfang Electric
Lucintel’s Leadership Quadrant considered a variety of critical factors—from management effectiveness to range of products, and from research and development investment to the quality of the firm's balance sheet assets—and then ranked each firm accordingly on a grid for quick comparison. In the current wind turbine competitive landscape, Vestas, the largest wind turbine producer in the world, clearly stood out as a leading performer. Vestas has the broadest market coverage in terms of both breadth of its product line, as well as its geographic presence in terms of market share, plant sites, and sales resources.
Lucintel’s analysis found that those companies which possess a strong product portfolio and global geographic reach—especially presence in growing markets such as China, the US, India, and Brazil—stand to gain market share in the future.
For a detailed table of contents and pricing information on this timely and insightful report, please contact Lucintel at +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com. Lucintel provides cutting-edge decision support services that help you make critical decisions with greater speed, insight, and cost efficiency. To find out more, please visit http://www.lucintel.com.
Contact:
Roy Almaguer, +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com.
Lucintel believes that volatility in fossil fuel costs, coupled with the environmental problems and incentives in different countries for developing wind energy, could be positive factors, driving increased acceptance of environmentally friendly technologies such as wind.
In a new research report, “Worldwide Wind Competitive Analysis and Leadership Study 2010,” Lucintel's analysts examine and profile nine of the world's leading wind turbine manufacturers. The report offers a full competitive analysis of target markets, product mapping, and production capabilities. Lucintel also provides its own scorecard of those companies that are better aligned with future market opportunities and have the capability to gain additional market share.
Collected from a series of primary interviews and secondary sources, this report provides complete profiles of the following companies:
• Vestas
• GE
• Suzlon
• Sinovel
• Enercon
• Gamesa
• Goldwind
• Siemens
• Dongfang Electric
Lucintel’s Leadership Quadrant considered a variety of critical factors—from management effectiveness to range of products, and from research and development investment to the quality of the firm's balance sheet assets—and then ranked each firm accordingly on a grid for quick comparison. In the current wind turbine competitive landscape, Vestas, the largest wind turbine producer in the world, clearly stood out as a leading performer. Vestas has the broadest market coverage in terms of both breadth of its product line, as well as its geographic presence in terms of market share, plant sites, and sales resources.
Lucintel’s analysis found that those companies which possess a strong product portfolio and global geographic reach—especially presence in growing markets such as China, the US, India, and Brazil—stand to gain market share in the future.
For a detailed table of contents and pricing information on this timely and insightful report, please contact Lucintel at +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com. Lucintel provides cutting-edge decision support services that help you make critical decisions with greater speed, insight, and cost efficiency. To find out more, please visit http://www.lucintel.com.
Contact:
Roy Almaguer, +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Carbon Chassis from Lamborghini Made Using Araldite RTM System
The long awaited successor to the Murcielago, the Aventador LP700-4, has recently been unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show. It is now gaining widespread recognition as an extremely important model, being the first flagship from Automobili Lamborghini SpA to feature a production carbon fibre chassis, made using an Araldite resin system for Resin Transfer Molding (RTM).
Automobili Lamborghini SpA has been working with carbon fibre composites for 30 years; indeed the Italian auto-maker was responsible for the first carbon fibre component on a production car and the first carbon fibre tub on a road car. Composites were also used to produce all of the body panels and several portions of the Murcielago’s spaceframe structure, when it was in production between 2002 and 2010.
In order to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations, Lamborghini’s corporate strategy is now directed at increasing the power-to-weight ratios of its cars, reducing the overall weight and thereby reducing vehicle emissions.
While traditional composites used in the luxury sports car industry have typically utilized aerospace-derived prepreg materials for autoclave cure, out-of-autoclave processes are now believed to provide unparalleled efficiencies in terms of cost and production rate, while leaving performance and quality unaffected. Among these processes, Lamborghini is focusing on liquid resin processes (VaRTM and RTM), oven-cure prepregs, preforming technologies (braiding, non-crimp fabrics and thermoforming), and advanced compression molding.
The first project to come out of the company’s new corporate strategy is the Aventador LP700-4’s carbon composite chassis. Designed, developed and manufactured at Lamborghini’s headquarters at Sant’Agata Bolognese, where all the bull signed cars are manufactured, this carbon chassis is also expected to be built into other Lamborghinis in the future.
Automobili Lamborghini SpA has been working with carbon fibre composites for 30 years; indeed the Italian auto-maker was responsible for the first carbon fibre component on a production car and the first carbon fibre tub on a road car. Composites were also used to produce all of the body panels and several portions of the Murcielago’s spaceframe structure, when it was in production between 2002 and 2010.
In order to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations, Lamborghini’s corporate strategy is now directed at increasing the power-to-weight ratios of its cars, reducing the overall weight and thereby reducing vehicle emissions.
While traditional composites used in the luxury sports car industry have typically utilized aerospace-derived prepreg materials for autoclave cure, out-of-autoclave processes are now believed to provide unparalleled efficiencies in terms of cost and production rate, while leaving performance and quality unaffected. Among these processes, Lamborghini is focusing on liquid resin processes (VaRTM and RTM), oven-cure prepregs, preforming technologies (braiding, non-crimp fabrics and thermoforming), and advanced compression molding.
The first project to come out of the company’s new corporate strategy is the Aventador LP700-4’s carbon composite chassis. Designed, developed and manufactured at Lamborghini’s headquarters at Sant’Agata Bolognese, where all the bull signed cars are manufactured, this carbon chassis is also expected to be built into other Lamborghinis in the future.
First international flight by Solar Impulse plane
The Solar Impulse airplane, a solar-powered aircaft that flies without any fuel, set course for its first international destination, landing in the capital of Europe: Brussels. The plane will be displayed in a hangar at Brussels International Airport between May 23 and May 29.
Bayer MaterialScience has been an official partner of the Solar Impulse project, since 2010, contributing technical expertise, high-tech polymer materials and energy-saving lightweight products. Last year, Solar Impulse demonstrated the potential of these new technologies with the first 26-hour endurance flight; comprising both day and night flying, with no fuel other than the power supplied by the sun.
“Solar Impulse has already set records that all involved in the project can be immensely proud of,” said Patrick Thomas, CEO of Bayer MaterialScience.
“This latest flight will see the plane land at Brussels and will be an icon for Europe to see what can be done by sheer determination and the use of the latest technology. We are delighted to see our technologies incorporated in the plane as our mission is to deliver Science For A Better Life.”
Select groups of visitors, including representatives from European institutions, journalists and students will be able to view the plane from May 23 to 29, 2011 at Brussels Airport in Zaventem. Among those on site will be Johannes Seesing, project coordinator at Bayer MaterialScience, who will present the lightweight technologies used in the airplane: “Our focus is on reducing weight as much as possible,” he says.
Bayer MaterialScience has been an official partner of the Solar Impulse project, since 2010, contributing technical expertise, high-tech polymer materials and energy-saving lightweight products. Last year, Solar Impulse demonstrated the potential of these new technologies with the first 26-hour endurance flight; comprising both day and night flying, with no fuel other than the power supplied by the sun.
“Solar Impulse has already set records that all involved in the project can be immensely proud of,” said Patrick Thomas, CEO of Bayer MaterialScience.
“This latest flight will see the plane land at Brussels and will be an icon for Europe to see what can be done by sheer determination and the use of the latest technology. We are delighted to see our technologies incorporated in the plane as our mission is to deliver Science For A Better Life.”
Select groups of visitors, including representatives from European institutions, journalists and students will be able to view the plane from May 23 to 29, 2011 at Brussels Airport in Zaventem. Among those on site will be Johannes Seesing, project coordinator at Bayer MaterialScience, who will present the lightweight technologies used in the airplane: “Our focus is on reducing weight as much as possible,” he says.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Fibrecycle Project Develops Low Cost Blended Carbon Fibre Yarns and Fabrics
Fibrecycle, a UK project, has developed a new generation of high performance, low cost co-mingled carbon fibres yarns and fabrics. Fibrecycle is a UK funded research project comprising six partners: Advanced Composites Group Ltd (ACG), part of Umeco Composites Structural Materials (UCSM) – a Division of Umeco plc (Lead Partner), Tilsatec, Sigmatex, Exel Composites, Net Composites and the University of Leeds. The project is sponsored by the Technology Strategy Board.
The yarns and fabrics are blended carbon/PET, manufactured from virgin recovered carbon fibre. These new materials have almost 100% of the stiffness of virgin materials, but they can be offered at a lower cost than similar products currently available on the market. They are also beneficial to the environment and retain the traceability of virgin materials.
The yarns and fabrics are blended carbon/PET, manufactured from virgin recovered carbon fibre. These new materials have almost 100% of the stiffness of virgin materials, but they can be offered at a lower cost than similar products currently available on the market. They are also beneficial to the environment and retain the traceability of virgin materials.
Beijing Composite Materials Co. Ltd. Develops New Kind of Natural Fiber Composites for Auto Interiors
Beijing Composite Materials Co. Ltd has developed a new kind of high-performance natural fiber composites for auto interiors. It has been successfully applied in cars such as Hova, Steyrking of Sinotruck and Refine of JAC., which has got good applications.
Compared with woody materials and plastic materials, the new natural fiber composites has the advantages of both and is formed of dry and wet strength, good stability, excellent ductility and can be easily shaped. It can be widely used for auto interiors such as roof, BOROR, and the luggage rack of different cars when combined with a wide range of fabrics (knit, non-woven fabrics, leather, etc.)The products manufactured by the material are with light quality, high strength, toughness, good surface finish, changeful form, assembling convenience etc.
Compared with woody materials and plastic materials, the new natural fiber composites has the advantages of both and is formed of dry and wet strength, good stability, excellent ductility and can be easily shaped. It can be widely used for auto interiors such as roof, BOROR, and the luggage rack of different cars when combined with a wide range of fabrics (knit, non-woven fabrics, leather, etc.)The products manufactured by the material are with light quality, high strength, toughness, good surface finish, changeful form, assembling convenience etc.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
New Fiber-Reinforced Composite Material Offers Advancements in Oral Implants
A new study compares fiber-reinforced composite and titanium implants. In the study researchers have analyzed how the two materials affect stress and strain on the implant and the bone tissue surrounding it. They have also compared interfacial stresses between the materials under three directions of load.
As per the study distribution of stress and strain to the jawbone is significantly changed after reconstruction with oral implants but how an implant using fiber-reinforced composite reacts has not yet been tested. Therefore, this study used a three-dimensional finite element model constructed from a mandibular bone and an implant to test these materials. The model was subjected to stress loads of 50 N (Newton) in vertical and horizontal directions.
Although variances were observed for both the fiber-reinforced composite and the titanium materials with these tests, the composite performed well. The strain distribution demonstrated a clear difference between the two materials. The results indicate that the vertical load stress range of the fiber-reinforced composite implant was close to the stress level for optimal bone growth. The composite implant also proved to have a more even distribution of stress at the bone surrounding the implant than the titanium.
carbon fiber market
Carbon Fibers
As per the study distribution of stress and strain to the jawbone is significantly changed after reconstruction with oral implants but how an implant using fiber-reinforced composite reacts has not yet been tested. Therefore, this study used a three-dimensional finite element model constructed from a mandibular bone and an implant to test these materials. The model was subjected to stress loads of 50 N (Newton) in vertical and horizontal directions.
Although variances were observed for both the fiber-reinforced composite and the titanium materials with these tests, the composite performed well. The strain distribution demonstrated a clear difference between the two materials. The results indicate that the vertical load stress range of the fiber-reinforced composite implant was close to the stress level for optimal bone growth. The composite implant also proved to have a more even distribution of stress at the bone surrounding the implant than the titanium.
carbon fiber market
Carbon Fibers
RPM Increases Minority Interest in Indian Composites Company
RPM International Inc. informed that it has agreed to increase its minority ownership interest in Kemrock Industries and Exports Ltd., a fully integrated fiberglass reinforced plastic composites manufacturer with more than $200 million in annual sales located in Vadodara, Gujarat State, India, from approximately 14.9% to 15.1%. As a result of this agreement to increase its ownership interest above 15%, RPM is required under Indian law to commence a public offer for up to an additional 20% of the outstanding shares of Kemrock.
RPM's increased ownership of Kemrock signals its continued support and confidence in the company and its management led by Kemrock's founder and managing director, Kalpesh Patel, and further solidifies RPM's position as a long-term investor in Kemrock. "We've had a long-standing partnership with RPM and we welcome this additional investment as a means to further our business relationship," stated Patel.
RPM's increased ownership of Kemrock signals its continued support and confidence in the company and its management led by Kemrock's founder and managing director, Kalpesh Patel, and further solidifies RPM's position as a long-term investor in Kemrock. "We've had a long-standing partnership with RPM and we welcome this additional investment as a means to further our business relationship," stated Patel.
Brazilian Composites Industry Forecasts Revenue Growth of 8.2% in 2011
Brazilian industry of composite materials sold USD 440 million in the first quarter, 16.3% increase compared to the same period of last year. The consumption of raw materials; however, fell 8.7% totalizing 46,900 tons. The difference between both indicators is mainly due to repeated increase in the prices of petrochemical inputs. Figures are part of the latest survey by Maxiquim, consultancy commissioned by the Brazilian Association of Composites Materials (ABMACO).
The study of Maxiquim also forecasts an increase of 8.2% in the sector’s total revenue in 2011, reaching USD 1.725 – the revenue consisted of USD 1.595 billion last year. Concerning the consumption of raw materials, the consultancy estimates that Brazil will process 214,000 tons, 4.8% higher than the reached in 2010 (205,000 tons). Yet, the expected growth in the number of jobs is 1.8%, totaling 75 thousand vacancies.
“All segments that consume composites materials must grow this year, but we believe that civil construction, wind energy generation and transportation will be responsible for even more expressive indexes”, says Gilmar Lima, ABMACO’s president. About the transportation area, Lima highlights the positive impact that the anticipation on the acquisition of trucks and buses will promote in the last quarter of 2011, due to Euro 5 standard, which will come into force in the beginning of 2012 – vehicles adjusted to the new regulation, which controls the emissions of pollutants, are more expensive.
Study separates polyester and epoxy
This time, the research commissioned by ABMACO addressed the polyester resin composites separately from the ones based on epoxy resin. In the first case – 162,000 tons or 79% of the total processed in 2010 – civil construction kept the position of the highest consumer of the material, with 46%. Then, the automakers came, above all, the ones that manufacture heavy and agricultural vehicles, with 16%. The markets of corrosion (11%), sanitation (7%), electricity (4%), nautical (3%), petroleum (1%) and others (11%) complete the list.
The study of Maxiquim also forecasts an increase of 8.2% in the sector’s total revenue in 2011, reaching USD 1.725 – the revenue consisted of USD 1.595 billion last year. Concerning the consumption of raw materials, the consultancy estimates that Brazil will process 214,000 tons, 4.8% higher than the reached in 2010 (205,000 tons). Yet, the expected growth in the number of jobs is 1.8%, totaling 75 thousand vacancies.
“All segments that consume composites materials must grow this year, but we believe that civil construction, wind energy generation and transportation will be responsible for even more expressive indexes”, says Gilmar Lima, ABMACO’s president. About the transportation area, Lima highlights the positive impact that the anticipation on the acquisition of trucks and buses will promote in the last quarter of 2011, due to Euro 5 standard, which will come into force in the beginning of 2012 – vehicles adjusted to the new regulation, which controls the emissions of pollutants, are more expensive.
Study separates polyester and epoxy
This time, the research commissioned by ABMACO addressed the polyester resin composites separately from the ones based on epoxy resin. In the first case – 162,000 tons or 79% of the total processed in 2010 – civil construction kept the position of the highest consumer of the material, with 46%. Then, the automakers came, above all, the ones that manufacture heavy and agricultural vehicles, with 16%. The markets of corrosion (11%), sanitation (7%), electricity (4%), nautical (3%), petroleum (1%) and others (11%) complete the list.
Elevance Renewable Sciences and Royal DSM Enters into Collaboration for Bio-based Specialty Thermoplastic Materials
Elevance Renewable Sciences, Inc. and Royal DSM N.V. have signed a Letter of Intent for a collaboration to evaluate Elevance’s unique monomers for production of specialty bio-based high performance thermoplastic materials, for DSM’s engineering plastics portfolio.
“DSM is a global leader in specialty thermoplastics and has demonstrated a capacity for commercializing innovative, more sustainable polymers, making it an attractive partner for our renewable monomers,” said Andy Shafer, executive vice president of sales and market development for Elevance. “This collaboration will combine our novel monomers with DSM’s focus on providing the market with high performance polymers to quickly commercialize innovative, bio-based products.”
Elevance will provide natural monomers produced from plant oils along with its proprietary metathesis technology to enable the production of various polymers. DSM will provide expertise on polymer research, application development and commercialization.
“Partnering with Elevance enables DSM to further broaden our portfolio of products that provide improved performance over existing polymer solutions,” said Roelof Westerbeek, president of DSM Engineering Plastics. “Together with Elevance we can create new classes of bio-renewable, high-performance materials without compromising cost or quality.”
“DSM is a global leader in specialty thermoplastics and has demonstrated a capacity for commercializing innovative, more sustainable polymers, making it an attractive partner for our renewable monomers,” said Andy Shafer, executive vice president of sales and market development for Elevance. “This collaboration will combine our novel monomers with DSM’s focus on providing the market with high performance polymers to quickly commercialize innovative, bio-based products.”
Elevance will provide natural monomers produced from plant oils along with its proprietary metathesis technology to enable the production of various polymers. DSM will provide expertise on polymer research, application development and commercialization.
“Partnering with Elevance enables DSM to further broaden our portfolio of products that provide improved performance over existing polymer solutions,” said Roelof Westerbeek, president of DSM Engineering Plastics. “Together with Elevance we can create new classes of bio-renewable, high-performance materials without compromising cost or quality.”
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Trek Bicycle Implements Carbon Fiber Recycling Programme
Trek Bicycle has instituted a full-scale carbon recycling program at its Waterloo, WI-based US manufacturing facility and is now recycling all scrap carbon fiber; the material primarily used in its domestic production. The material that Trek introduced to the cycling world and has pioneered the usage of since 1992 is revered for its strength and weight properties but has long been believed nearly impossible to recycle.
Through a partnership with Materials Innovation Technologies (MIT LLC) and it’s wholly owned subsidiary MIT-RCF, a South Carolina carbon reclamation facility that is revolutionizing carbon recycling processes, Trek completed a three month trial period to determine the viability of adopting the step as an official part of the manufacturing process. “Throughout the trial period we worked with Trek to show them how beneficial carbon recycling can be to their overall business practices” said MIT’s President and CEO, Jim Stike. “Working with a world leader like Trek to help them become the first bicycle company to begin recycling carbon fibers is very exciting for us.”
Throughout the manufacturing process, Trek collects excess trimmings, non-compliant molded parts and combines it with select reclaimed warranty frames to send to MIT’s South Carolina facility to begin their reclamation process. Reclaimed carbon fiber is currently being used in reinforced thermoplastic applications while research and development is ongoing for use in automotive, aerospace, medical, and recreational applications.
Through a partnership with Materials Innovation Technologies (MIT LLC) and it’s wholly owned subsidiary MIT-RCF, a South Carolina carbon reclamation facility that is revolutionizing carbon recycling processes, Trek completed a three month trial period to determine the viability of adopting the step as an official part of the manufacturing process. “Throughout the trial period we worked with Trek to show them how beneficial carbon recycling can be to their overall business practices” said MIT’s President and CEO, Jim Stike. “Working with a world leader like Trek to help them become the first bicycle company to begin recycling carbon fibers is very exciting for us.”
Throughout the manufacturing process, Trek collects excess trimmings, non-compliant molded parts and combines it with select reclaimed warranty frames to send to MIT’s South Carolina facility to begin their reclamation process. Reclaimed carbon fiber is currently being used in reinforced thermoplastic applications while research and development is ongoing for use in automotive, aerospace, medical, and recreational applications.
Vestas Receives 102 MW Order in California, USA
Vestas has received a 102 MW order for 34 V90-3.0 MW turbines for a wind-energy project in Tehachapi, California, USA, owned by Brookfield Renewable Power (“Brookfield”) and Coram California Development Management, LLC (“CCDM”).
The contract includes delivery and commissioning along with a two-year service and maintenance agreement. Delivery is scheduled for the second half of 2011 and commissioning is expected in late 2011.
“We look forward to working with Brookfield and Coram to bring cost-effective, predictable and clean wind energy to California,” said Martha Wyrsch, President of Vestas Americas. “The V90-3.0 MW is designed to operate in areas of medium-to-high winds, so it is the ideal turbine for this site.”
This project will provide direct and indirect economic benefits to Kern County with long-term jobs and property-tax revenues generated from the turbines.
The contract includes delivery and commissioning along with a two-year service and maintenance agreement. Delivery is scheduled for the second half of 2011 and commissioning is expected in late 2011.
“We look forward to working with Brookfield and Coram to bring cost-effective, predictable and clean wind energy to California,” said Martha Wyrsch, President of Vestas Americas. “The V90-3.0 MW is designed to operate in areas of medium-to-high winds, so it is the ideal turbine for this site.”
This project will provide direct and indirect economic benefits to Kern County with long-term jobs and property-tax revenues generated from the turbines.
LANXESS Completes Acquisition of DSM Elastomers
The specialty chemicals group LANXESS has successfully completed the acquisition of DSM Elastomers. The antitrust authorities have granted the approvals that are necessary for completion. The transaction took economic effect on May 1, 2011.
LANXESS is paying EUR 310 million for the elastomer business of the Dutch company Royal DSM N.V. DSM Elastomers produces the synthetic rubber ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) under the brand name Keltan. LANXESS is financing the acquisition with existing liquidity.
“The successfully completed acquisition of this elastomer business is a further milestone on our growth path,” said LANXESS CEO Axel C. Heitmann. “We will now start integrating this business into the Group. We warmly welcome the new employees to the LANXESS family.”
DSM Elastomers, based in Sittard-Geleen in the Netherlands, has roughly 420 employees worldwide. DSM Elastomers operates an EPDM facility with an annual capacity of 160,000 metric tons in Sittard-Geleen. An additional EPDM facility with a capacity of around 40,000 metric tons per year is located in Triunfo, Brazil. LANXESS plans to transfer the headquarters for the combined EPDM business from Marl (Germany) to Sittard-Geleen.
The Technical Rubber Products (TRP) business unit of LANXESS, headed by Guenther Weymans, will sell its EPDM products under the brand names Buna EP and Keltan. LANXESS currently produces EPDM at its sites in Marl, Germany, and Orange, United States.
LANXESS is paying EUR 310 million for the elastomer business of the Dutch company Royal DSM N.V. DSM Elastomers produces the synthetic rubber ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) under the brand name Keltan. LANXESS is financing the acquisition with existing liquidity.
“The successfully completed acquisition of this elastomer business is a further milestone on our growth path,” said LANXESS CEO Axel C. Heitmann. “We will now start integrating this business into the Group. We warmly welcome the new employees to the LANXESS family.”
DSM Elastomers, based in Sittard-Geleen in the Netherlands, has roughly 420 employees worldwide. DSM Elastomers operates an EPDM facility with an annual capacity of 160,000 metric tons in Sittard-Geleen. An additional EPDM facility with a capacity of around 40,000 metric tons per year is located in Triunfo, Brazil. LANXESS plans to transfer the headquarters for the combined EPDM business from Marl (Germany) to Sittard-Geleen.
The Technical Rubber Products (TRP) business unit of LANXESS, headed by Guenther Weymans, will sell its EPDM products under the brand names Buna EP and Keltan. LANXESS currently produces EPDM at its sites in Marl, Germany, and Orange, United States.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Lucintel’s Report Outlines Robust Growth for Global Composite Cylinders Market: Market to Reach $1223 Million by 2015
The global cylinders industry has witnessed a gradual shift from the type I steel cylinders to an increased usage of composite cylinders in various segments, with the composite cylinders market experiencing growth in support of an end product market reaching $1223 million by 2015. Composites consumption in the cylinders market is expected to witness a double digit growth rate from 2010-2015 with growing application segments and regional shift.
Lucintel, a leading global management consulting and market research firm with over thousands of clients worldwide, has analyzed the global composite cylinders market and published a comprehensive research report, “Growth Opportunities in Global Composite Cylinders Market 2010-2015: Trends, Forecast and Market Share Analysis”.
In the last five years, production of natural gas vehicles (NGVs) rose by more than 20%, and the growth rate is expected to be the same in the next few years. The composite cylinders, though little more expensive than its traditional counterparts, has a promising future because of its weight savings, capacity advantage and other performance benefits. Metal cylinders can explode when coming contact with hazardous materials, fire or toxic fumes, but composite cylinders would rupture rather than explode.
Composite cylinders are having major applications in the transportation industry. Light weight composite cylinders provide easy portability to ambulatory patient, firemen, SCUBA divers & also increases fuel efficiency in NGVs.
Lucintel believes that the availability of substitute materials for composite cylinders do not provide a ceiling on industry profitability since composite products are continually growing, as compared to alternate products, on a cost/performance basis.
Lucintel’s research report analyzes the global composite cylinders industry, detailing its background and characteristics. The manufacturing process is reviewed and composite cylinders manufacturers are profiled. A market assessment/competitive analysis is performed and market trends (2004-2009) are analyzed. The report also puts forth a six year forecast (2010-2015), highlighting opportunities in this sector.
For a detailed table of contents and pricing information on this timely and insightful report, please contact Lucintel at +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com. Lucintel provides cutting edge decision support services that help you make critical decisions with greater speed, insight, and cost efficiency. To find out more, please visit http://www.lucintel.com.
Contact:
Roy Almaguer, +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com.
Lucintel, a leading global management consulting and market research firm with over thousands of clients worldwide, has analyzed the global composite cylinders market and published a comprehensive research report, “Growth Opportunities in Global Composite Cylinders Market 2010-2015: Trends, Forecast and Market Share Analysis”.
In the last five years, production of natural gas vehicles (NGVs) rose by more than 20%, and the growth rate is expected to be the same in the next few years. The composite cylinders, though little more expensive than its traditional counterparts, has a promising future because of its weight savings, capacity advantage and other performance benefits. Metal cylinders can explode when coming contact with hazardous materials, fire or toxic fumes, but composite cylinders would rupture rather than explode.
Composite cylinders are having major applications in the transportation industry. Light weight composite cylinders provide easy portability to ambulatory patient, firemen, SCUBA divers & also increases fuel efficiency in NGVs.
Lucintel believes that the availability of substitute materials for composite cylinders do not provide a ceiling on industry profitability since composite products are continually growing, as compared to alternate products, on a cost/performance basis.
Lucintel’s research report analyzes the global composite cylinders industry, detailing its background and characteristics. The manufacturing process is reviewed and composite cylinders manufacturers are profiled. A market assessment/competitive analysis is performed and market trends (2004-2009) are analyzed. The report also puts forth a six year forecast (2010-2015), highlighting opportunities in this sector.
For a detailed table of contents and pricing information on this timely and insightful report, please contact Lucintel at +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com. Lucintel provides cutting edge decision support services that help you make critical decisions with greater speed, insight, and cost efficiency. To find out more, please visit http://www.lucintel.com.
Contact:
Roy Almaguer, +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com.
ATK Receives $110 Million Contract for F-35 Lightning II Composite Components
ATK apprised that it has received a $110 million contract from Lockheed Martin to produce composite components for low rate initial production (LRIP) Lots 5 through 9 of the F-35 Lightning II – Joint Strike Fighter. The contract includes production of multiple components through the LRIP 9 phase of the program.
Under the terms of the contract, ATK will use advanced hand lay-up processing techniques to manufacture upper fixed aft skins for both the carrier variant (CV) and short-take off/vertical landing (STOVL) variant, upper access covers on the CV and conventional take-off and landing (CTOL) variant, and the upper access center covers for the STOVL variant. Production will take place at ATK's Clearfield, Utah facility beginning in 2011 continuing through 2015.
"This contract award confirms our commitment to providing Lockheed Martin with the highest quality composite structures affordably and on time," said Joy de Lisser, Vice President and General Manager of the Aerospace Structures division of ATK Aerospace Systems.
ATK began F-35 production in October 2002 with a System Design and Development contract for 19 ship sets of the one-piece, 35-foot composite upper wing skin. The company has delivered over 850 wing skin components to date through LRIP Lot 4. During this contract the company will increase production rates from three ship sets per month to more than eight ship sets per month.
In addition to this contract award, ATK manufactures several other composite structures for the F-35, including the seven-piece upper wing skin, lower wing skins, engine nacelle skins, inlet ducts, and the upper wing strap using both automated fiber placement and hand lay-up techniques. ATK's composite manufacturing expertise has contributed to the F-35 since the development phase of the program.
Under the terms of the contract, ATK will use advanced hand lay-up processing techniques to manufacture upper fixed aft skins for both the carrier variant (CV) and short-take off/vertical landing (STOVL) variant, upper access covers on the CV and conventional take-off and landing (CTOL) variant, and the upper access center covers for the STOVL variant. Production will take place at ATK's Clearfield, Utah facility beginning in 2011 continuing through 2015.
"This contract award confirms our commitment to providing Lockheed Martin with the highest quality composite structures affordably and on time," said Joy de Lisser, Vice President and General Manager of the Aerospace Structures division of ATK Aerospace Systems.
ATK began F-35 production in October 2002 with a System Design and Development contract for 19 ship sets of the one-piece, 35-foot composite upper wing skin. The company has delivered over 850 wing skin components to date through LRIP Lot 4. During this contract the company will increase production rates from three ship sets per month to more than eight ship sets per month.
In addition to this contract award, ATK manufactures several other composite structures for the F-35, including the seven-piece upper wing skin, lower wing skins, engine nacelle skins, inlet ducts, and the upper wing strap using both automated fiber placement and hand lay-up techniques. ATK's composite manufacturing expertise has contributed to the F-35 since the development phase of the program.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Researchers Develop Composite Material Based on Graphite that is as Thin as Paper and Ten Times Stronger than Steel
Scientists from the University of Technology Sydney have reported remarkable results in developing composite materials based on graphite that is a thin as paper and ten times stronger than steel.
In work recently published in the Journal of Applied Physics., a UTS research team supervised by Professor Guoxiu Wang has developed reproducible test results and nanostructural samples of graphene paper, a material with the potential to revolutionize the automotive, aviation, electrical, and optical industries.
A University of Technology-Sydney release notes that graphene paper (GP) is a material that can be processed, reshaped, and reformed from its original raw material state - graphite. Researchers at UTS have successfully milled the raw graphite by purifying and filtering it with chemicals to reshape and reform it into nano-structured configurations which are then processed into sheets as thin as paper.
These graphene nanosheet stacks consist of monolayer hexagonal carbon lattices and are placed in perfectly arranged laminar structures which give them exceptional thermal, electrical and mechanical properties.
Using a synthesized method and heat treatment, the UTS research team has produced material with extraordinary bending, rigidity, and hardness mechanical properties. Compared to steel, the prepared GP is six times lighter, five to six times lower density, two times harder with ten times higher tensile strength and thirteen times higher bending rigidity.
In work recently published in the Journal of Applied Physics., a UTS research team supervised by Professor Guoxiu Wang has developed reproducible test results and nanostructural samples of graphene paper, a material with the potential to revolutionize the automotive, aviation, electrical, and optical industries.
A University of Technology-Sydney release notes that graphene paper (GP) is a material that can be processed, reshaped, and reformed from its original raw material state - graphite. Researchers at UTS have successfully milled the raw graphite by purifying and filtering it with chemicals to reshape and reform it into nano-structured configurations which are then processed into sheets as thin as paper.
These graphene nanosheet stacks consist of monolayer hexagonal carbon lattices and are placed in perfectly arranged laminar structures which give them exceptional thermal, electrical and mechanical properties.
Using a synthesized method and heat treatment, the UTS research team has produced material with extraordinary bending, rigidity, and hardness mechanical properties. Compared to steel, the prepared GP is six times lighter, five to six times lower density, two times harder with ten times higher tensile strength and thirteen times higher bending rigidity.
Argotec Introduces New Argomedplus 18411 Polyurethane Film-on-paper with Controlled Release
Argotec, Inc., of Greenfield Massachusetts U.S.A., has introduced ArgoMedPLUS 18411, a revolutionary new thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film-on-paper product that will allow medical adhesive coaters, converters and distributor/retailers an alternative film source with which to participate in frame-type wound dressing and surgical drape markets.
Of the many wound bandage designs available today – film, island, frame, and combinations thereof – all except frame-type dressings have enjoyed a wide variety of material choices. One of the greatest challenges to successfully marketing frame dressings has been creating a film product with the correct peel release between the paper and film. (Similar technical challenges and processes are present in surgical drape applications.)
Of the many wound bandage designs available today – film, island, frame, and combinations thereof – all except frame-type dressings have enjoyed a wide variety of material choices. One of the greatest challenges to successfully marketing frame dressings has been creating a film product with the correct peel release between the paper and film. (Similar technical challenges and processes are present in surgical drape applications.)
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
DuPont Opens Automotive Center in China
DuPont today has opened the DuPont Automotive Center to provide "one-stop" design and application development services for the rapidly growing China automotive market.
Located at the DuPont China Research & Development Center in Shanghai, the facility further enhances the network of global automotive application development centers designed to strengthen the industry’s ability to collaborate on ways to reduce dependence of fossil fuel. Developing markets – including China – represented 32 percent of DuPont’s total sales in 2010. Sales in developing markets grew 30 percent in first quarter 2011.
"Technology and materials will be critical to the continuous development of the automotive industry in China," said Tony Su, president of DuPont Greater China at the opening ceremony of the center. "This new automotive center provides a platform for our customers to access the integrated capabilities of our company and allows us to collaborate more closely with our customers to address challenges as well as growth opportunities in the automotive market."
The DuPont Automotive Center contains three functional laboratories, encouraging collaboration with experienced application-development teams from DuPont’s businesses and drawing from more than 100 innovations and products to develop new ideas for safer, more fuel-efficient and more comfortable vehicles.
Located at the DuPont China Research & Development Center in Shanghai, the facility further enhances the network of global automotive application development centers designed to strengthen the industry’s ability to collaborate on ways to reduce dependence of fossil fuel. Developing markets – including China – represented 32 percent of DuPont’s total sales in 2010. Sales in developing markets grew 30 percent in first quarter 2011.
"Technology and materials will be critical to the continuous development of the automotive industry in China," said Tony Su, president of DuPont Greater China at the opening ceremony of the center. "This new automotive center provides a platform for our customers to access the integrated capabilities of our company and allows us to collaborate more closely with our customers to address challenges as well as growth opportunities in the automotive market."
The DuPont Automotive Center contains three functional laboratories, encouraging collaboration with experienced application-development teams from DuPont’s businesses and drawing from more than 100 innovations and products to develop new ideas for safer, more fuel-efficient and more comfortable vehicles.
Dieffenbacher Awarded Major Order for the Production of Fiber-reinforced Plastic Components for Russian Hybrid Car
The Russian company e-AUTO has placed an order with the German press manufacturer DIEFFENBACHER for 2 manufacturing lines for the production of fiber-reinforced plastic components.
The e-car is a highly innovative hybrid car with a power-generating unit driven by petrol or natural gas and traction electric motors. Instead of a battery there are super-capacitors, which accumulate the energy generated while braking and which are then released to the e-motors on demand. The whole car body is made of a special plastics material, a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic called LFTD. In place of fiberglass basalt fibers will be used in the e-car body components.
MAGNA STEYR is the engineering partner of e-AUTO Company. The e-car project enjoys priority status in Russia with Mikhail Prokhorov, Russian billionaire, being the investor of the project, and Russia’s Prime Minister Putin test-driving the innovative car V. Mr. Andrey Biryukov ,Director General of e-AUTO and Co-Investor points out that “production of all major components will be located in Russia based on the inventions of Russian engineers applying leading technologies and using the most advanced equipment.”
For mote deatils please visit us at lucintel.com
The e-car is a highly innovative hybrid car with a power-generating unit driven by petrol or natural gas and traction electric motors. Instead of a battery there are super-capacitors, which accumulate the energy generated while braking and which are then released to the e-motors on demand. The whole car body is made of a special plastics material, a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic called LFTD. In place of fiberglass basalt fibers will be used in the e-car body components.
MAGNA STEYR is the engineering partner of e-AUTO Company. The e-car project enjoys priority status in Russia with Mikhail Prokhorov, Russian billionaire, being the investor of the project, and Russia’s Prime Minister Putin test-driving the innovative car V. Mr. Andrey Biryukov ,Director General of e-AUTO and Co-Investor points out that “production of all major components will be located in Russia based on the inventions of Russian engineers applying leading technologies and using the most advanced equipment.”
For mote deatils please visit us at lucintel.com
Monday, May 2, 2011
Gamesa Signs MoUs for 900 MW of Turbine Capacity with 3 Chinese Companies
Gamesa, has achieved a major qualitative leap in its trade relations with China, after power company Longyuan -- the world´s No. 3 wind farm developer -- chose Gamesa as its partner to jointly develop wind projects in international markets outside of China.
Gamesa and Longyuan will research wind projects, both those Gamesa has already identified and included in its wind farm project portfolio, and new ventures in strategic countries. Gamesa currently has a wind farm portfolio totalling more than 22,600 MW at varying stages of development in Europe, the Americas and Asia.
"This agreement marks a before and after in our relationship with Longyuan and it represents a qualitative leap in our presence in the wind market, as we become partners in the international expansion of one of the world's top wind farm developers" said Gamesa Chairman and CEO Jorge Calvet. "Gamesa has carved out a market position as a leader in technology, and we will now offer our know-how for finding potential wind farm sites and for project management of joint ventures in the world's most promising wind markets," said Calvet.
Gamesa and Longyuan will research wind projects, both those Gamesa has already identified and included in its wind farm project portfolio, and new ventures in strategic countries. Gamesa currently has a wind farm portfolio totalling more than 22,600 MW at varying stages of development in Europe, the Americas and Asia.
"This agreement marks a before and after in our relationship with Longyuan and it represents a qualitative leap in our presence in the wind market, as we become partners in the international expansion of one of the world's top wind farm developers" said Gamesa Chairman and CEO Jorge Calvet. "Gamesa has carved out a market position as a leader in technology, and we will now offer our know-how for finding potential wind farm sites and for project management of joint ventures in the world's most promising wind markets," said Calvet.
Boeing and Lockheed Martin Loses Mega Indian Defense Deal
The $12 billion dollar fighter jet deal for 126 fighters has witnessed fierce competition between defense giants such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin of the United States, Sweden's Saab AB and the Russian makers of the MiG 35. The long-delayed contract includes the outright purchase of 18 combat aircraft by 2012 with another 108 to be built in India.
India has rejected bids from Boeing and fellow U.S. firm Lockheed Martin, and instead short listed European firms Dassault's Rafale and the Eurofighter Typhoon. According to information they have been requested to extend their commercial bids.
Boeing Co said on 28th April that it was disappointed by India's rejection of its bid for a $11 billion fighter jet deal, adding that it would mull its options after reviewing details.
India has rejected bids from Boeing and fellow U.S. firm Lockheed Martin, and instead short listed European firms Dassault's Rafale and the Eurofighter Typhoon. According to information they have been requested to extend their commercial bids.
Boeing Co said on 28th April that it was disappointed by India's rejection of its bid for a $11 billion fighter jet deal, adding that it would mull its options after reviewing details.
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