Lucintel Analyzes Emerging Carbon Fiber Applications, Expects Them to Drive Carbon Fiber Market during 2011–2016

The carbon fiber industry has proved itself through high performance, light weight, and excellent strength characteristics. In calendar year 2010, global carbon fiber shipments reached 81 million pounds with a value of US $1.3 billion. This market is expected to grow to $2.8 billion in 2016 with a 12.4% CAGR during 2011–2016. Carbon fiber products, such as wind turbine blades, aircraft components, and golf shafts had a 2010 market value estimated at $11 billion.

Demand for carbon fiber has grown steadily over its 40-year history. Although the composites marketplace has many facets, carbon fiber applications continue to accelerate as industries – from aerospace to renewable energy – adopt this versatile material.

Lucintel, a leading global management consulting and market research firm, analyzed the emerging carbon fiber applications market and presents its findings in the report, “Emerging Carbon Fiber Applications: 2011–2016.”

Applications for carbon fiber continue to increase. Until 2000, aerospace, industrial, and sporting goods applications drove carbon fiber usage. Carbon fiber demand driven by new commercial aircraft such as the Boeing 787, Airbus A380, and A350; weight reductions in automobiles for greater performance and fuel efficiency; growing use of carbon fiber in wind energy, offshore oil and gas development, and emerging applications will power growth during the next five years and beyond.

To understand the critical factors driving carbon fiber demand in the emerging applications, this study has undertaken in-depth market research and analysis to identify and forecast the top emerging applications. Lucintel’s research indicates the industries that will see emerging applications with significant growth potential include:

1. Automotive
2. Wind energy
3. Commercial aerospace
4. Military and defense
5. Oil and gas
6. Compounding

Lucintel sees carbon fiber cost and availability as the two greatest industry challenges. The report provides trend scenarios and forecast statistics for 2011–2016; details industry drivers and challenges; and outlines emerging carbon fiber applications, including nuclear centrifuge rotor tubes, consumer electronics, offshore oil and gas applications, wind energy, automotive, high-pressure tanks, fuel cells, medical/biomedical, commercial aerospace, 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.

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

3B Launches 10 Micron Glass Fibre for High Performance Reinforced Polypropylene (PP) Applications at Composites Europe

Building on its range of short fibre reinforcements for polyolefins, 3B-the fibreglass company launched at Composites Europe a high performance 10µm glass fibre grade (DS2200-10P) for demanding applications manufactured using polypropylene (PP) resins.

“As European leader for technological innovation in glass fibre reinforcements for thermoplastics, 3B is eager to deliver cost competitive solutions to address continuously evolving market needs. Glass fibre reinforcements are unquestionably among the most versatile lightweight design materials for high-end and demanding applications such as automotive,” says Eric Martin, Business Development Leader at 3B.

In addition to offering design freedom, glass fibre reinforced thermoplastics deliver original equipment manufacturers (OEM’s) a considerable weight saving potential for the vehicles of tomorrow, thereby contributing to lower fuel consumption and the reduction of CO2 emissions.

Leveraging the latest technological advances in PP compound formulation and its revolutionary sizing chemistry previously introduced for reinforcing high performance polyolefins, 3B has developed a new 10µm chopped strand grade (DS2200-10P), which further boosts the overall performance limits of polypropylene compounds and extends the range of high end-use applications. Proprietary sizing and binding technology provides excellent Dry-as-Moulded (DAM) performance and a high percentage of property retention after hydrolysis or heat ageing.

Low micron diameter glass fibres are already widely used in polyamide and polyester resins yet their use in combination with polypropylene resins is innovative and opens up new game-changing opportunities especially in automotive applications such as interior semi-structural components, under-the-hood applications and high loaded technical parts such as engine and gearbox mounts.

PPG Extends Partnership with Ebtech Industrial

PPG Industries' fiber glass business has apprised about the extension of its partnership with Ebtech Industrial, a global supplier of modular building solutions, by offering MIL-TOUGH(R) ICB (inorganic composite binder) blast/ballistic panels -- an innovative, lightweight and cost-effective alternative to steel-reinforced concrete for asset protection and blast mitigation.

In partnership with the Industrial Hardening and Protective Systems division of Ebtech Industrial Building Solutions (Ebtech), PPG is bringing a complete integrated building solution to the marketplace, addressing the demand for asset protection that extends beyond government and military needs.

"Our proven experience in delivering innovative, industry-leading modular building solutions for the toughest structural challenges makes us a leader in building protection solutions," said Mario Kyd, president of Ebtech. "Partnering with PPG allows us to be at the forefront -- on a global scale -- with this total integrated solution for asset protection and blast mitigation."

Mil-Tough ICB panel products -- part of PPG's portfolio of solutions for blast and ballistics applications -- were successfully marketed and commercialized with Ebtech in 2010. The blast/ballistic panels, which integrate unique ceramic concrete technology and composite construction techniques, were developed through PPG's government solutions cross-business sales initiative.

"When compared to other available technologies, these panels offer an innovative, lightweight and cost-effective building solution for the challenging asset-protection marketplace," according to Kevin Richardson, PPG market development manager for fiber glass. "We foresee a number of military, government, and commercial physical protection applications where these panels provide a unique value proposition for blast mitigation."

Mil-Tough ICB panels from PPG are custom fabricated from a precast platform at PPG's fiber glass manufacturing facility in Shelby, N.C., USA. The panels can be incorporated into a modular or liftable structure, containers, permanent structures (new or retrofit) and freestanding perimeter wall and barrier systems. Mil-Tough ICB building panel solutions are suitable for government, military and oil and gas market applications worldwide.

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Gordon Murray and Toray Industries Build Carbon-Fiber Electric Sports Car

Gordon Murray Design Limited and Toray Industries Inc has announce a prototype electric sports car named TEEWAVE AR.1 The AR.1 had an internal GMD code number of ' T.32' and the car is the result of a commission from Toray for Gordon Murray Design to design, tool and build a fully functioning prototype vehicle which utilizes many of Toray's advanced automotive materials in order to achieve Toray's basic concept of an attractive vehicle for everyone.

The 2-seater sports car is designed to use the Toray carbon fibers component system with a process time of less than 10 minutes. A carbon monocoque, one of the key technologies of TEEWAVE, can be applied to all types of vehicle other than the 2-seater sports car.

The entire programme from concept discussions to running vehicle took just 9 months and was delivered on target, both in terms of cost and final handover. The power train in the vehicle are the base components used in one of the commercial electric vehicles currently available, but the unique electrical architecture and control units were developed by Gordon Murray Design.

A carbon front crash structure was designed and developed for the car. A Full vehicle Euro Ncap O.D.B test was simulated in addition to a rigid barrier dynamic impact. A correlation process was conducted on the front crash structure for both half energy and full energy using physical tests. Quasi -static bend and torsion analysis was also conducted.

The AR.1 has a remarkably low weight of just 850kg (including the 240kg battery) putting the car firmly in Lotus Elise territory and some 400kg lighter than a Tesla. The ultimate performance is limited by an output figure of 47kw but a torque of 180 Nm available from a standing start results in lively acceleration.

DuPont Wins Trade Secret Case against Kolon Industries

DuPont has won a civil lawsuit for $919.9 million in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in Richmond, Va., against Kolon Industries, with the jury finding that Kolon stole trade secrets and confidential information regarding DuPontTM Kevlar aramid fiber. Kolon, a South Korea-based company, was found liable for misappropriation of trade secrets, and the jury found that its actions were willful and malicious.

“Today’s jury decision is an enormous victory for global intellectual property protection and the millions of users of DuPont Kevlar technology and products,” said Thomas L. Sager, senior vice president and general counsel of DuPont. “The size of this award is one of the largest in defense of business processes and technologies. It also sends a message to potential thieves of intellectual property that DuPont will pursue all legal remedies to protect our significant investment in research and development and our proprietary information for the benefit of our shareholders and customers.”

“Companies around the world are facing a significant challenge to protect trade secrets and intellectual property,” said Thomas G. Powell, president, DuPont Protection Technologies. “DuPont, as a market-driven science company, has devoted more than 40 years and considerable investment to researching and refining Kevlar to make it the world’s most trusted aramid fiber.”

DuPont will ask the trial judge to impose injunctive relief requiring Kolon to return DuPont’s proprietary information and to stop manufacturing and selling products made from that information. DuPont also expects to recover its attorney’s fees from Kolon.

ELG Invests in the Recycling of Carbon Fiber

With effect of September 21st, 2011, ELG Haniel GmbH of Duisburg (Germany) (ELG) has acquired 100% of the shares in Recycled Carbon Fiber Ltd. (RCF). RCF is the first company worldwide commercially operating in the field of recycling carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) and the reclamation and processing of carbon fiber.

The company has its corporate seat in Coseley, West Midlands (UK). The commercial reclamation of carbon fiber was initiated by the former shareholder Roy Price, who has over the period of ten years steadily developed the project to marketability. In 2009 RCF set up its UK facility for the reclamation of carbon-fiber on a commercial scale and, thus, became the pioneer in this market segment.

The acquisition of this young recycling company provides ELG with new growth potential in the rising market for composite materials. It enables ELG to implement a sustainable and ecological concept for the reclamation of carbon-fiber by means of its patent protected technology. The feedstock material is to a large extent waste from the manufacturing processes of CFRP, which previously had to be either incinerated or sent to land-fill.

The company will be supervised by the present MD Stephen Line and will operate under the name of ELG Carbon Fiber Ltd. In close co-operation with the RCF management team, ELG will further explore the new business segment of carbon fiber and is confident to expand it to a global group in this future-oriented industry.

Lucintel’s Report Outlines Double-Digit Growth for Carbon Fiber Industry: Market to Reach US Dollar 2.8 Billion By 2016

The global carbon fiber market has experienced significant growth over the last five years and is expected to continue its growth momentum and reach approximately US $2.8 billion by 2016 with a CAGR of 12% over the next five years.

Lucintel, a leading global management consulting and market research firm with thousands of clients, analyzes the global carbon fiber market and presents all findings in “Growth Opportunities in the Global Carbon Fiber Market 2011-2016” report.

Lucintel’s research indicates great demand for carbon fiber driven by new commercial aircraft such as the Boeing 787, Airbus A380, and A350 XWB; weight reductions in automobiles for greater performance and fuel efficiency; and growing use of carbon fiber in wind energy and offshore oil and gas development.

The global carbon fiber market’s anticipated double-digit growth through 2016 will be led by industrial and aerospace markets; however, the sporting goods market is likely to witness the lowest growth of 3.0%. The industrial market will be driven by wind energy, CNG tanks, civil structures, transportation, and various compound applications in the electrical and electronics industry. Carbon fibers prices expected to remain same because of supply demand stability over the next five years, however; greater competition from offshore suppliers such as from China and India, may ultimately drive down the cost of end products.

Research by Lucintel indicates brand loyalty will wane as industry fundamentals move toward a low-cost-to-serve model and new carbon fiber suppliers from several developing regions emerge.

The report provides trend scenarios during 2005-2010 and forecast statistics for 2011–2016; details the industry’s drivers and challenges; compares properties and prices; and highlights major carbon fiber suppliers. The report also describes the manufacturing process of carbon fiber, and more.

Additionally, another new Lucintel research report, “Worldwide Carbon Fiber Competitive Analysis and Leadership Study, 2011” examines and profiles seven of the world's leading carbon fiber producers. This report offers a full competitive analysis from target markets to product mapping, and from selling strategy to production capabilities.

For a detailed table of contents and pricing information on these timely, insightful reports, contact Lucintel at +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk@lucintel.com. To learn more, visit http://www.lucintel.com.

About Lucintel
Lucintel, headquartered in Dallas, TX (USA), is a premier global market research and strategic management consulting firm, established for over ten years, with over 1000 clients worldwide. Lucintel provides actionable results that deliver significant added value and long term growth to clients from various industries such as aerospace consulting, Automotive Market, wind energy, sporting goods, composite materials, transportation and chemical consulting.

LANXESS Invests EUR 15 Million in Its Glass Fiber Plant in Antwerp

LANXESS is investing EUR 15 million in its glass fiber plant in the Antwerp docklands. For the specialty chemicals company glass fibers are a key intermediate for the production of high-tech plastics. With the expansion, the actual annual capacity of 60,000 metric tons will increase by 10 percent. The announcement was made during a LANXESS High-Tech Plastics Day at the facilities for caprolactam and glass fibers in Belgium. With the investment the glass fiber plant will replace both furnaces.

“The high-tech plastics business is a major growth driver for LANXESS. There is attractive business potential in the global market arising from the increasing demand for modern mobility as well as from the electric and electronic markets,” stated Werner Breuers, member of the Board of Management of LANXESS AG. The global demand for high-tech plastics is expected to increase by roughly seven percent per year through 2020.

Just before summer an investment project of EUR 35 million to expand the production of the plastic intermediate caprolactam at the site in the Antwerp docklands was finalized. The production capacity of 200,000 metric tons per year will be increased by another 10 percent.

LANXESS has been investing substantial amounts in the expansion of its global production network for high-tech plastics during the last 18 months. Including the glass fibers expansion, recent investments for high-tech plastics account for EUR 90 million. LANXESS’ Semi-Crystalline Products (SCP) business unit is a leading supplier of premium high-tech plastics. New compounding facilities are being built in the United States and Asia. In the existing compounding plants investments are being made to increase capacity.

Apple to Manufacture Colorful, Durable Carbon Fiber Devices

Apple's concept for coloring carbon or even glass fiber devices was revealed in a patent application published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office entitled "Composite Laminate having an Improved Cosmetic Surface and Method of Making Same," it describes a composite laminate placed over the frame of the device, including a "scrim layer," to allow a product like a MacBook Pro to be painted a variety of colors.

The application notes that carbon fiber composites offer many benefits, as they can serve as a strong, lightweight housing for electronic equipment. But carbon fiber composites are also typically black, and the fibers themselves are usually visible on the surface of the device. Apple said the fibers of such material are usually variable in construction, offering a varied appearance on the surface. As a result, carbon fiber can feature cosmetic imperfections that would reduce the aesthetic appearance of a device.

Apple's solution is a composite laminate that includes a plurality of sheets that could be colored. These sheets would be formed of fibers pre-impregnated with resin. The composite laminate surface placed on the outside of the device could allow it to retain a color, and an exterior scrim layer would give a device enclosure a "consistent and pleasing cosmetic surface," Apple said.

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Lucintel’s Market Study Outlines Robust Growth in India’s Energy Sector for 2011–20

Consumption of energy in India has increased steadily over the past decade and is likely to grow at an average of 6% annually based on annual GDP growth of 8% for 2011–2020. Considering the massive development in India’s infrastructure and real estate sectors, demand for electricity is anticipated to nearly double over the next five years. India’s current electricity consumption of approximately 600 TWh annually is likely to surpass 1,000 TWh annually by 2020.

In its new market study, “Indian Energy Sector 2011–2020: Economic and Risk Analysis,” Lucintel analyzes and identifies India’s energy sector and outlines areas of opportunity for the coming decade.

Lucintel’s research indicates that, with a forecast population growth rate of 1.3% annually and 8% GDP growth for the next decade, India’s per capita income is expected to double, leading to greater energy consumption. With an 8% GDP growth scenario and government plans and policies, commercial energy needs are expected to increase to more than 2,100 Mtoe by 2031–32. The prices of other energy sources such as fossil fuel and gasoline also drive the demand for energy. Coal remains India’s most important fuel and its use is expected to triple between 2005 and 2030.

Lucintel’s report provides detailed trend and forecast data for different energy sources in India; specifically, the demand and supply analysis with future forecasts for 2020. The report analyzes the drivers that lead the demand in different energy segments and the supply challenges these segments are likely to face. The study considers various policies the government of India is implementing and others it is likely to employ in the future to bridge the gap between energy demand and supply. The macroeconomic fundamentals of India also are analyzed, offering insights into how the country’s economy continues to develop. India’s future economic growth rate and demand in the various energy sectors provide understanding into which sector should perform well over the next decade.

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.

Lincoln Composites Bags EUR 3.2 Million Contracts from Two Vietnamese Companies

Lincoln Composites has bagged contracts of worth EURO 3.2 million from two Vietnamese companies for supply of high-pressure composite tanks and storage modules. Lincoln Composites will supply 40 ft TITAN modules as well as 20 ft Smartstore modules using 450 litre TUFFSHELL cylinders to Petrovietnam Gas South and CNG Vietnam J-S Company. This is reportedly the third order to Petrovietnam.

The lightweight high-pressure modules will be used to transport compressed natural gas (CNG) to ceramic processing plants that require large consumption of gas at very high flow rate.

The TITAN modules contain 4 TITAN tanks, which are constructed from a high density polyethylene (HDPE) liner; a filament wound carbon fibre/epoxy composite shell, and a polyurethane outer coating. The 20 ft Smartstore modules act as an intermediate storage solution for regions where the roads do not allow the use of a 40 ft trailer.

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.

Augrid's Carbon Composite Technologies Signs Licensing Agreement with Convection Strategies, LLC

Augrid Global Holdings Corporation apprised that its subsidiary, Carbon Composite Technologies (CCT) has signed a world-wide Licensing Agreement with Convection Strategies, LLC (CSLLC). The two companies have worked for nearly two years to prepare marketing literature and perform physical testing of several composite fiber architectures for presentation to the several major wind turbine blade manufacturers.

CCT's patented technology allows the manufacturing of 100 meter and larger blades which are becoming required for use in wind farms being deployed in the oceans. The larger blades provide more electricity with a fewer number of towers and CCT's patented process for construction and curing allow for the blade to be manufactured as one piece and cured without the use of an autoclave, dramatically decreasing the time and material costs, resulting in a significantly less expensive final product.

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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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Iberia Selects CF6 Engines for Its Airbus A330 Fleet

Iberia has selected GE's CF6-80E1 engines to power its fleet of eight firm Airbus A330 aircraft with an option for eight additional A330s. The engine order is valued at more than $260 million (USD) list price. Iberia has also signed a 15-year OnPointSM solution agreement for the material and services to be used in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of the CF6 engine. The OnPoint agreement is valued at more than $200 million (USD) over the life of the contract.

"The CF6-80E1 engine incorporates the latest technology advances that will bring Iberia improve fuel efficient, reduce emissions, and increase engine time-on-wing," said Kevin McAllister, vice president and general manager of Global Sales at GE Aviation.
GE's CF6 engines powering more than 10 models of wide-body aircraft, has established an unparalleled record of reliability and has compiled more than 360 million flight-hours in service with close to 200 customers worldwide.
Iberia is Spain's largest air transport group and the fourth largest in Europe.

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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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Quickstep Receives First Purchase Order for F-35 fighter Parts

Australian advanced materials company Quickstep Holdings Limited informed that it has received its first Purchase Order to manufacture parts for the international F-35 Lightning II, Joint Strike Fighter military aircraft, marking the first contract in what is expected to be a 20 year plus manufacturing program.

Under the framework established in the LTA, Quickstep is set to deliver the first F-35 Lightning II parts in 2012. The Company will supply a variety of F-35 components, including a large number of composite doors and panels.

The Purchase Order covers production of Group 1 components for the F-35 over the next 12 months, as scheduled under the Long Term Agreement (LTA) Quickstep signed with principal F-35 subcontractor Northrop Grumman, in February 2011. The value and scope of the manufacturing contract will remain confidential.

The contract was awarded after Quickstep successfully passed its Tollgate review set by Northrop Grumman, which required Quickstep to successfully demonstrate production readiness for F-35 Group 1 part manufacturing. This included the completion of all qualification requirements and the manufacture of a demonstration part using Quickstep operated facilities, tools, systems, staff and business processes.

Managing Director of Quickstep, Mr Philippe Odouard, said the receipt of the first Purchase Order was a landmark occasion for the Company, and represented an outstanding effort by the Quickstep team in successfully passing QPL .

"This order for the F-35 components represents Quickstep's first aerospace global supply chain manufacturing contract – a huge achievement for the Company following a long and arduous qualification process," Mr Odouard said. "Quickstep's LTA to manufacture Group 1 parts contemplates a 20 year production timeline, representing a long term income stream for the Company."

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