TI Automotive Expands Reach in India with Two New Facilities

TI Automotive, a leading global supplier of fluid storage, carrying and delivery technology, is expanding its reach into the India automotive market with two new facilities, in Bangalore and Chennai. Both locations will produce technology for the domestic Indian market.

The Bangalore facility was established to produce fluid-carrying lines for passenger cars, with full production beginning in December 2011. At full production, TI Automotive will employ 68 at the 12,500-square-foot facility.

The Chennai facility is the company's first fuel tank systems location within India and will produce low-emission plastic fuel tanks. Production will begin in April 2012. TI Automotive will employ 70 at the 73,000-square-foot facility.

"India is a key growth region that is essential to being a major global supplier," said Bill Kozyra, chairman and CEO of TI Automotive. "With these new facilities, we are firmly entrenched there, and continue to expand our global footprint to provide advanced technology that meets the needs of our customers everywhere in the world."

TI Automotive also has facilities in Manesar to produce powertrain systems, and in Baroda and Manesar for the production of fluid-carrying systems.

Lucintel’s Analysis of Natural Fiber Composites Market: Automotive to Drive Usage through 2016

Natural fiber composites—a subject of intensive technical research—are becoming more prevalent in use because of increasing environmental awareness and the materials’ relatively low cost and low density. The demand for component materials that are durable, reliable, lightweight, and with excellent mechanical properties is fueling the growing demand for natural fiber in various industries such as automotive and building and construction.

The natural fiber composite materials market is expected to grow to US $531.3 million in 2016 with an 11% CAGR over the next five years.In its new market study, Lucintel analyzes and presents its findings in its report “Natural Fiber Composites Market Trend and Forecast 2011–2016: Trend, Forecast and Opportunity Analysis.” Lucintel’s research indicates that the application of natural fiber composites has increased and is gaining preference over glass fiber. Increasing use of natural fiber composites in automotive applications is driving the market. Indeed, automotive is expected to remain the largest market through 2016. Several automotive components are now produced using natural composites, which are generally based on polyester or polypropylene resin and fibers such as flax, hemp, kenaf, or sisal.

The automotive industry’s adoption of natural fiber composites is led by price, weight reduction, and marketing incentives rather than technical demands. The range of products is no longer restricted to interior and non-structural components such as door panels or rear shelves. In terms of value shipment, Europe is expected to continue its dominance with more than 50% of the worldwide market. North America is expected to be the second-largest region and ROW third in terms of value shipment by 2016. Lucintel’s report provides detailed trend and forecast data for the natural fiber composites market; specifically, forecasts for material and end product applications from 2011‒2016. The report analyzes the drivers leading the demand in the natural fiber composites market, recent developments, Porter’s Five Forces model for the market, growth opportunities in natural fiber composites in applications, and more.

For a detailed table of contents and pricing information on this timely, insightful report, contact Lucintel at +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com. Lucintel provides cutting-edge decision support services that help facilitate critical decisions with greater speed, insight, and cost efficiency. To find out more, please visit www.lucintel.com

Lamborghini to Produce Sesto Elemento Carbon Fibre Concept Car

Lamborghini has informed that it will produce its Sesto Elemento carbon fibre concept car. At the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September Lamborghini’s President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann said that only 20 units of the new car will be produced, and first cars are scheduled to be delivered early 2013.

It has a 5.2-litre V10 engine that propels it from rest to 62 mph in just 2.5 seconds. The firm also confirmed it will put its sinister-looking all-carbon-fibre Sesto Elemento - or 'sixth element' - into production next year. It sports an extremely lightweight body of 999 kg, a power output of 570 hp, and a V10 engine, and a power-to-weight ratio of just 1.75 kg per hp.

Eastman Acquires Scandiflex to Expand Plasticizer Business

Eastman Chemical Company apprised that it has acquired Scandiflex do Brasil S.A. Industrias Quimicas, a manufacturer of plasticizers located in Maua, Sao Paulo, Brazil. The acquired Scandiflex plasticizer business and manufacturing capabilities are now part of Eastman’s Performance Chemicals and Intermediates (PCI) segment.

With 2010 sales revenue of $54 million, Scandiflex’s manufacturing capabilities and customer relationships in Brazil will enable Eastman to accelerate growth of its PCI segment’s non-phthalate plasticizer business in the Latin America region. In addition to regional diversification of both sales and manufacturing, Scandiflex also brings several complimentary non-phthalate products to Eastman’s broad portfolio of plasticizer products.

“This acquisition is an important next step in our global growth strategy and positions us to grow as demand increases in Latin America for non-phthalate plasticizer products,” said Ron Lindsay, executive vice president, performance chemicals and intermediates and fibers. "I am confident that Scandiflex’s strong customer connect and reputation as a reliable supplier in the Latin America market will provide us additional opportunities for future growth in this fast expanding region."

ATK Opens "ACCE" Facility to Handle $1 Billion+ Commercial Aircraft Orders

Alliant Techsystems has opened its new Aircraft Commercial Center of Excellence (ACCE) facility in Clearfield, Utah – less than one year after the announcement of the expansion. The facility serves as the headquarters for ATK's commercial aircraft programs and supports the manufacturing of composite airframe and engine components for the Airbus A350 XWB, and General Electric and Rolls-Royce engine programs. As previously announced, ATK has received commercial aircraft component orders exceeding $1 billion over the last several years.

"Our new Aircraft Commercial Center of Excellence is a key component in our strategy to capitalize on the growing demand for modern, more efficient commercial aircraft." said Mark DeYoung, ATK's President and CEO. "Our longstanding experience in highly-engineered composite structures and our expertise in automated manufacturing methods are now matched by a state-of-the-art production facility."

"Combined with our $500 million of orders for military aircraft composite structures, ATK is in two high-growth markets for the long-term," added ATK Aerospace Systems President Blake Larson.

Daimler and BASF Combine Know-How in Pioneering Vehicle Project

Daimler and BASF have developed a new concept vehicle that combines both companies' ideas for holistic electric mobility. The resulting vehicle is the smart forvision, which has been developed with a special emphasis on energy efficiency, temperature management and lightweight design. The smart forvision will have its world premiere at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt.

Both Daimler and BASF are engaged in wide-ranging research and development work aimed at getting electric cars on the road and ensuring that electric mobility becomes part of everyday life as soon as possible. Daimler is embracing the age of electric mobility: it is the first car manufacturer to have released four electric production models, and its smart fortwo electric drive is a pioneer among battery-driven vehicles. BASF, the world's largest supplier of chemical products to the automotive industry, develops sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions for the energy-efficient mobility of tomorrow. The two companies have now combined their technological competencies for the first time, developing a forward-looking vehicle concept that offers decisive solutions to the challenges of the future. The new vehicle brings design, lifestyle and technology together to form a new functional whole.

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Increased TeXtreme Usage in Kitesurfing

North Kiteboarding has once again chosen to use TeXtreme to reinforce their latest models of the high-performance Select and Team Series Kiteboards. TeXtreme Spread Tow Fabrics have contributed in reducing weight, improving surface smoothness and enhancing stiffness of the boards.

“The unique Spread Tow structure of the TeXtreme carbon fabric results in benefits which no other carbon reinforcement can match. To meet our weight and stiffness requirements TeXtreme was an obvious choice”, says Jurgen May, Product Engineer at manufacturer Boards & More.

When developing a high-performance Kiteboard the technical demands are quite challenging, getting the rider preferences and high demands in balance with the manufacturing possibilities. From a manufacturing perspective, achieving the ideal balance lies in constructing a board that while being very responsive still retains control in all kinds of waters. This requirement places strong demands in terms of the carbon reinforcement to ensure that different levels of stiffness in different directions are provided.

To achieve the desired weight savings and required mechanical properties the best material proved to be an unbalanced TeXtreme Spread Tow Fabric, which ensures extreme stiffness in one direction.

Insituform Technologies, Inc. Closes Acquisition of North American Business of Fyfe Group, LLC

Insituform Technologies, Inc. has informed about the closing of its acquisition of the North American business of Fyfe Group, LLC. The transaction purchase price was approximately $115.8 million.

Fyfe Group, based in San Diego, California, is a pioneer and industry leader in the development, manufacture and installation of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) systems for the structural repair, strengthening and restoration of pipelines (oil, gas, water and waste water), buildings (commercial, Federal, municipal, residential and parking garages), bridges and tunnels, and waterfront structures. The acquisition was financed by a $250 million term loan under the Company’s new $500 million credit facility.

Fyfe Group’s senior management team, including Ed Fyfe and Heath Carr, will remain with the company and be responsible for its day-to-day operations, growth and continued technological innovation. In connection with the closing of the Fyfe North America transaction, Ed Fyfe and Heath Carr also purchased $3.0 million and $1.0 million, respectively, of Insituform common stock at a price of $16.21 per share (Insituform’s closing stock price on August 30, 2011). The shares of common stock are subject to certain transfer restrictions until February 2013.

Audi Urban Concept Car Emphasizes Carbon Fiber Composites

The Audi urban concept is a 1+1-seat, ultra-light car for congested urban spaces. The Audi urban concept combines elements of a racing car, a fun car and an urban car into one radical new concept. In addition to a Sportback model, Audi is also presenting a Spyder variant.

The Audi urban concept is not based on any previous model – its development is solely oriented on the strict principles of lightweight construction, efficiency and reduction. The result is a concept car with no unnecessary weight, and one that concentrates on the pure essence of sporty motion.

The Audi urban concept has a sleek body. The wheels are free-standing; their surrounding protective plates feature blinking strips of LED lights. The highly concentrated look of the technical study, with its forward-urging lines, is dynamic and emotional – it lends Audi’s design language a completely new impetus.

On board there is room for two people, their position slightly staggered and at a sporty, low level. All controls and materials are subject to the dictates of ultra-lightweight construction in order to ensure that the sensory experience they convey is unique and compelling. The driver can adjust the steering wheel and pedals to his own body measurements. Characteristic features of the Spyder include its low, continuous window area and its doors that open diagonally to the top.

The technology in the Audi urban concept reflects the full capabilities of the brand, especially when it comes to ultra-lightweight construction. The cockpit consists of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer, which integrates the undercarriage of both seats. The Audi urban concept rolls on wheels with a 21-inch diameter.

Two e-tron electric motors provide the propulsion – providing the ultra-light Audi urban concept with the ability to accelerate powerfully. A lithium-ion battery supplies the energy – ideal for extended city tours.

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Vestas Receives a 202 MW Order from E.ON Climate & Renewables North America for 112 V100-1.8 MW Turbines for the USA

The contract includes delivery and commissioning along with a five-year service and maintenance agreement. Delivery is scheduled for the first half of 2012 and commissioning is expected in mid-2012.

“We are excited to again work with one of the leading wind-power operators in the world to move this project forward,” said Martha Wyrsch, President of Vestas-American Wind Technology, Inc. “E.ON chose a turbine that is specifically designed to capture the lower wind speeds of this area.”

Once finished, the project will provide enough electricity to power more than 60,000 American homes in a year. It also will create construction and turbine-maintenance jobs.

The contract includes Vestas’ Active Output Management (AOM) 4000 maintenance program. The AOM 4000 program guarantees turbine availability and includes all planned and unplanned maintenance services. AOM 4000 also includes continuous remote monitoring and surveillance of the project via the VestasOnline SCADA system.

Vestas last worked with E.ON on the 180 MW Papalote Creek wind power plant in San Patricio County, Texas, which was finished in 2009 and consists of 109 V82-1.65 MW turbines. This order marks Vestas’ sixth North American deal announced in 2011, totaling 976 MW among three turbine types.

Styron Expands EMERGE Advanced Resins Portfolio

Styron, the global materials company and manufacturer of plastics, latex and rubber, has made addition to its EMERGE Advanced Resins family in North America. The EMERGE PC/PET 9100CR Advanced Resin is a polycarbonate blend with superior chemical resistance properties, designed specifically for medical equipment housing applications.

“With an increased emphasis on managing the risk of hospital acquired infections (HAIs), medical professionals have enhanced their standard operating procedures for infection control,” said Martin Lindway, Styron’s global marketing manager. “One of the controls in place is the selection of newer chemicals and cleaning procedures for durable medical equipment.

“The challenge is that the chemicals used in this process are harsh and can attack plastic surfaces leading to crazing, cracking, and even initiating product failure. To combat this, Styron has developed a novel polycarbonate blend – the first in a series – with advanced chemical resistance properties to resist potential antagonists.”

Feedback from trials of EMERGE PC/PET 9100CR Advanced Resin indicates that it provides a unique aesthetically-pleasing appearance and enhanced environmental stress-crack resistance, while maintaining the toughness needed for housings. EMERGE PC/PET 9100CR is available in Natural and custom color options to help produce opaque housings with aesthetically-pleasing appearances.

New Anti-Dumping Procedure on Certain Glass Fibre Fabrics Originating In China

The Official Journal of the EU published a notice of initiation of anti-dumping proceedings concerning certain woven and/or stitched glass fibre fabrics, originating in China.

The complainant was lodged by the Glass Fibre Defence Coalition (GFFDC). The product under investigation is “fabrics of woven or stitched or woven and stitched continuous filament glass fibre rovings, excluding products which are impregnated or pre-impregnated (pre-preg), and excluding open mesh fabrics with cells with assize of more than 1.8 mm in both length and width and weighing more than 35 g/m² (the product under investigation)”(Art.2).

The European Commission invites all the relevant stakeholders to inform them as interested parties in the investigation within 15 days since the publication of the current notice. EuCIA, the European umbrella of the composites industry was notified as user of the product concerned and nominated as interested party in the proceedings.

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Mahindra Group and Eurocopter Sign MOU for Trade Partnership to Strengthen the Civil Helicopter Industry in India

Mahindra Aerospace and Mahindra Satyam - representing the aerospace manufacturing and engineering capabilities of leading Indian industrial house, the Mahindra Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a trade partnership with the Eurocopter Group and its Indian subsidiary, Eurocopter India. The partnership will be focused on manufacturing of sub assemblies, engineering and customization of civil helicopters and the joint development of specific market segments. Details of the scope and structure of the partnership will be decided in the coming months.

Noting that Mahindra is a long established and respected multinational group with great engineering and manufacturing competencies, Lutz Bertling, President and CEO of Eurocopter, pointed out that, "the synergies between our two companies will enhance our contributions to the Indian civil helicopter market."

Mr. Hemant Luthra, Chairman of Mahindra Aerospace and President and Member of the Group Executive Board of Mahindra & Mahindra, said, "We are delighted to work with the world's leading helicopter manufacturer to contribute to the growth of the Indian aeronautical industry and civil aircraft market. Eurocopter has a solid, long term strategy for the growth of the India market, while we are already creating a niche for ourselves in the fixed-wing aircraft and aero structures manufacturing space. We see this MOU as a significant step forward for both of us as well as the domestic aviation industry."

GE Expands Smart Grid Portfolio, Extends its Reach in Ireland

GE apprised that it has finalized the acquisition of Ireland-based FMC-Tech, a leading provider of smart grid technology equipment providing real-time power line monitoring capabilities. The acquisition, first announced in May, marks another milestone in both GE’s dedication to smart grid excellence and its commitment to smart grid development in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

“GE is committed to innovatively solving our customers’ toughest challenges with more efficient, reliable and sustainable energy solutions,” said Keith Redfearn, general manager—Digital Energy for GE Energy in Europe. “FMC-Tech solutions are at the forefront of a new wave of technologies allowing utilities to remain competitive and capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century grid.”

FMC Tech comes to GE with utility experience and backing. ESB Networks has worked with the FMC-Tech team on pilot trials of their intelligent network sensors. According to ESB, the deployed system has proven to be highly effective in the areas of network monitoring and fault detection, delivering a significant reduction in outage duration.

GE has also demonstrated its commitment to smart grid development in Ireland by supporting Smart Grid Ireland (SGI). SGI is a group of international and local businesses facilitated by the Center for Competitiveness, focused on articulating the benefits of smart grid to promote sustainability and economic growth throughout the region.

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BMW M3 CRT Debuts Carbon Fiber Technology

BMW M3 Carbon Fiber Technology debuts new production process for CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) components that are used in the upcoming i3 and i8.

M3 CRT uses the same engine as the M3 GTS Coupe, 450 horsepower at 8,300 RPM and 324 lb-ft torque at 3,750 RPM. Top speed is limited to 180 mph and the carbon-fiber dressed M3 runs to 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

The BMW M3 CRT (Carbon Racing Technology) is a limited-edition high-performance sports car based on the BMW M3 saloon and it utilizes carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) to minimize weight. The use of CFRP in the construction of the car helps it achieve a weight-to-power ratio of 3.5 kg per horsepower.

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