Wallwork doubles aerospace HIP capacity with second Quintus hot isostatic press

Wallwork Group, Manchester, England, installed a second Quintus Technologies hot isostatic press (HIP) at its UK operations, doubling the company’s HIP capacity for aerospace customers and strengthening process continuity across the UK and European supply chain. The investment will be a centerpiece of the company’s presence at Farnborough International Airshow 2026 (Hall 1, Stand 1000, July 20–24), where Wallwork will showcase how the expanded HIP capability combines with one of the industry’s most comprehensive portfolios of NADCAP- and AS9100-accredited thermal processing and hard coating services. “Farnborough 2026 is the ideal platform to show how Wallwork is investing in the future of aerospace manufacturing,” said Simeon Collins, group director at Wallwork. “Our second Quintus HIP significantly expands capacity for customers, while our full range of accredited thermal processing, surface engineering, and brazing services gives manufacturers a dependable single-source partner.” HIP is a critical post-process for high-integrity aerospace components — particularly castings, additive-manufactured parts, and powder-metallurgy products — closing internal voids and improving tensile strength and fatigue performance in turbine and compressor blades, blisks, disks, structural casings, and engine parts. Wallwork is the United Kingdom’s largest independent aerospace thermal processing and hard coatings specialist, with over 60 years of industry experience, ITAR compliance, major aerospace prime approvals, and operations across Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham, and Cambridge. Quintus Technologies, headquartered in Västerås, Sweden, is the global leader in high-pressure technology for hot isostatic pressing, sheet metal forming, and high-pressure processing.

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Bodycote opens new heat treatment facility in Monterrey, Mexico

Bodycote, Macclesfield, England, plans to open a new heat treatment facility in Apodaca, in the Monterrey metropolitan area of Mexico. The new site will expand Bodycote’s North American footprint and provide additional regional capacity to support customers across Mexico and the southern United States, helping reduce logistics complexity and strengthen supply-chain resilience for OEMs and tier suppliers operating in the region’s automotive, aerospace, and industrial markets. The Apodaca facility will offer precision heat treatment capabilities including case hardening and nitriding processes such as carburizing, carbonitriding, and nitrocarburizing, technologies widely used to improve wear resistance, fatigue performance, and dimensional stability in critical drivetrain, gearing, and structural components. The new site complements Bodycote’s existing North American network and reflects continued investment by the group in geographic capacity expansion and customer-proximate service. Bodycote is the world’s largest provider of heat treatment and specialist thermal processing services, operating more than 165 facilities across 22 countries with capabilities spanning vacuum heat treatment, hot isostatic pressing, surface engineering, and advanced thermal processing technologies. The company serves a broad customer base across aerospace, automotive, defense, energy, medical, and general industrial markets, and continues to invest in both new geographies and decarbonized process technologies to support its customers’ performance and sustainability goals.

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Solar Atmospheres expands California operations with new 10-bar vacuum furnace

Solar Atmospheres, Fontana, California, announced the installation and commissioning of a new 10-bar vacuum furnace at its California facility. Manufactured by sister company Solar Manufacturing, the horizontal furnace features a hot zone measuring 48-in. wide by 48-in. high by 96-in. deep, with a maximum load capacity of 12,000 pounds and an ultimate vacuum level of 1×10⁻⁶ Torr. The furnace expands the facility’s high-pressure quenching capabilities for processing titanium and high-performance alloys serving the aerospace, defense, medical, and power generation markets. “This investment gives our customers another regional solution for high-pressure quenching of large components and heavy workloads,” said Derek Dennis, President of Solar Atmospheres California.

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Resonetics to Acquire Resolution Medical, Expanding Neuromodulation and Structural Heart Capabilities

Resonetics, Nashua, New Hampshire, announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Resolution Medical, a medical device design and manufacturing firm headquartered in Fridley, Minnesota, with additional operations in the Netherlands. The transaction is expected to close in 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

The acquisition adds complementary capabilities in high-growth therapeutic markets including neuromodulation, structural heart, and interventional cardiology. Resolution Medical brings integrated design engineering, new product introduction, and cleanroom production capabilities for Class II and Class III devices, along with a team of more than 240 employees, including over 100 engineers.

“This acquisition will enhance our ability to deliver fully integrated solutions for customers in high-growth markets,” said Kevin Kelly, chief executive officer of Resonetics. The deal marks Resonetics’ third acquisition in the past 12 months as the company continues to broaden its medical device manufacturing platform.

Resonetics specializes in laser processing, nitinol components, and advanced manufacturing for the medical device industry.

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Confluent Medical Debuts Filmcast Select for Tailored Polymer Tubing Performance

Confluent Medical Technologies, Chattanooga, Tennessee, announced the launch of Filmcast Select, a materials customization program that enables medical device OEMs to tailor key performance attributes of Filmcast PTFE and polyimide tubing for specific applications.

The program addresses a growing challenge in minimally invasive device design: as procedures advance and devices become smaller and more complex, the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to polymer tubing is no longer sufficient. Filmcast Select allows customers to select tubing based on the characteristics that matter most, including flexibility, strength, durability, surface finish, and optical clarity.

The program includes several specialized PTFE options: FlexaCast for increased flexibility and elongation, DuraCast for enhanced abrasion resistance, and UltraCast for higher tensile strength in demanding applications. Confluent can also work with customer-preferred PTFE dispersions, allowing OEMs to leverage existing biocompatibility data and reduce development time.

Confluent Medical Technologies is a global leader in the design and manufacture of medical devices and components, specializing in nitinol, polymer, and catheter-based technologies.

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Johnson Matthey to open first hydrogen internal combustion engine testing facility in Gothenburg

Johnson Matthey, London, England announced plans to open its first hydrogen internal combustion engine (H₂ICE) testing facility at its existing site in Gothenburg, Sweden. The upgraded center will expand the company’s heavy-duty vehicle testing capabilities, reflecting growing industry and regulatory momentum toward cleaner mobility technologies. The facility is expected to become operational in autumn 2025.

Building on Johnson Matthey’s previous hydrogen combustion research, the new installation will allow full engine testing for the first time. It will assess catalyst performance within broader aftertreatment and control systems, supporting the development of efficient hydrogen-powered mobility solutions.

The project follows the successful completion of Project Brunel, a collaboration launched in 2021 with Cummins, PHINIA, and Zircotec, which delivered key advances in H₂ICE engine performance and durability.

The upgraded Gothenburg site will feature its own hydrogen supply and storage system rated at up to 500 bar, hydrogen flow meters and analyzers, control and safety systems, adapted exhaust measuring instruments, and enhanced fire and gas detection. It will support engines up to 600 kW (800 hp).

Tauseef Salma, chief technology officer of Johnson Matthey Clean Air, said the expansion underscores the company’s commitment to advancing hydrogen mobility as part of global decarbonization efforts. Salma noted that hydrogen engines offer a mature and complementary solution to battery electric vehicles in achieving emissions reduction goals across Europe and beyond.

Johnson Matthey also recently joined the Global Hydrogen Mobility Alliance as a founding member. The coalition, comprising more than 30 major companies including BMW, Toyota, Hyundai, Air Liquide, and Linde, aims to accelerate adoption of hydrogen technologies in Europe’s transport sector.

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Ilika and Cirtec advance miniaturized medical implants

Cirtec Medical, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota announced a collaborative approach with  Ilika, Southampton, United Kingdom, combining application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) technology with solid-state battery (SSB) innovation to power the next generation of active implantable medical devices (AIMDs). The integration aims to enable compact, rechargeable, and efficient implants for applications such as neuromodulation and cardiac sensing.

The joint solution addresses long-standing design challenges in AIMDs, including limited energy storage capacity, wireless power transfer efficiency, and stable memory retention during low-power or pulsed operating cycles.

Ilika’s Stereax M300 solid-state battery delivers high energy density in a miniaturized footprint, reducing recharge times and extending implant life to minimize the need for replacement surgeries. Cirtec’s ASIC platform complements this by managing power regulation, memory integrity, and startup control, even under variable energy conditions.

By combining these technologies, Ilika and Cirtec offer a scalable and reliable energy architecture for medical device developers, supporting safer, longer-lasting, and more sustainable implant designs that enhance patient outcomes while accelerating product development for medtech innovators.

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One Minute Mentor: Effects of cyclic treatments on martempered L3 steel

The effects of various subcooling and tempering cycles on martempered L3 steel were investigated with changes in specimen length tracked throughout the treatments. All length changes were measured relative to the original, as-martempered state.

The study included four treatment protocols, each maintaining a total tempering time of 10 hours at 120 °C (250 °F), though distributed differently across cycles:

  • Treatment A: Specimens were cooled to −195 °C (−320 °F), then cycled ten times between 20 and 120 °C (68 and 250 °F), holding for 1 hour at 120 °C in each cycle.
  • Treatment B: Samples were tempered for 1 hour at 120 °C, then cooled to −195 °C and held for 1 hour. This sequence was repeated for a total of ten cycles.
  • Treatment C: Specimens were first cooled to −195 °C and held for 1 hour, then tempered at 120 °C for 1 hour. This subcooling-tempering sequence was also repeated ten times.
  • Treatment D: Specimens were cooled to −195 °C and then tempered continuously for 10 hours at 120 °C.

For clarity, the length changes from Treatment D were omitted from the associated figure (Fig. 3), though its net expansion was found to be comparable to that of Treatment A.

Results indicated that the first two refrigeration cycles following martempering were effective in reducing retained austenite in L2 and L3 steels. However, additional cycles beyond the initial two offered no significant benefit. Regardless of cycle structure, maintaining a cumulative tempering time of 10 hours at 120 °C appeared to be a critical factor for dimensional stability.

Two particularly effective strategies combining tempering and subcooling were highlighted:

  • Temper for 1 hour at 120 °C, subcool, repeat the cycle, then temper continuously for an additional 8 hours.
  • Subcool, temper for 1 hour at 120 °C, subcool again, then temper continuously for 9 hours.

These approaches suggest that combining initial subcooling with sufficient cumulative tempering can effectively stabilize the microstructure and dimensions of martempered L3 steel.

Quaker Houghton appoints Dr. Arisbeth Rodwick as senior product application manager

Quaker Houghton, Conshohocken, Pennsylvania announced that Dr. Arisbeth Rodwick has joined the company as senior product application manager (PAM) for heat treatment and forging, effective July 14, 2025. In this role, she will support business development, commercial, and application teams in advancing the company’s heat treatment and forging portfolio across the Americas region.

Dr. Rodwick holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical metallurgical engineering and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering with a focus on materials from Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León in Mexico. She earned her Ph.D. in ferrous metallurgy and materials science from RWTH Aachen University, Germany.

Her professional background includes roles at ArcelorMittal Global R&D in East Chicago, Indiana, where she served as senior engineer, and at Liebherr Monterrey in Mexico, where she was head of quality. She also held metallurgical and process engineering positions at Frisa Forjados in Santa Catarina, Mexico.

Quaker Houghton stated that Dr. Rodwick’s expertise will play a key role in supporting the company’s strategic growth in specialized metallurgical applications.

Read further here: http://quakerhoughton.com/

 

Norman Noble receives NTMA Superior Safety award for second consecutive year

Norman Noble, Highland Heights, Ohio, has been honored with the National Tooling & Machining Association’s (NTMA) 2024 Superior Safety Award for the second year in a row. The accolade recognizes member firms achieving exceptional workplace safety performance, and Norman Noble earned this distinction by keeping its incident rate well below the industry average across all advanced manufacturing sites.

The company uses a daily management system to track key performance indicators—such as lost-time claims, recordable injuries, first-aid incidents, near misses, days of restricted work activity, and streaks without a lost-time claim—to monitor progress toward its health, safety and environmental objectives. Julie Bennett Lowry, director of facilities and environmental health and safety, explained that integrating safety observations into daily gemba walks and immediately logging any issues ensures rapid follow-up. Thanks to this proactive process, the firm recorded zero lost-time claims in 2024 and, as of May 1, 2025, has surpassed 1092 consecutive days without a lost-time incident.

Operating over 275,000 square feet of manufacturing space with more than 500 employees, Norman Noble produces precision components for life-saving medical vascular and orthopedic implants. The company said its continued focus on safety underpins both employee well-being and its commitment to maintaining rigorous quality standards.

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Platinum deficit predicted for third year as palladium returns to balance, Johnson Matthey reports

Johnson Matthey, London, England announced that the platinum market will remain in deficit in 2025 while palladium moves back into balance, according to its 2025 PGM Market Report released ahead of London Platinum & Palladium Market week. The company forecasts a 3% decline in primary platinum output due to operational restructuring, extreme weather and maintenance in South Africa, with secondary supplies subdued globally except in China, where a renewed trade-in incentive scheme is boosting scrap returns. Industrial platinum demand is expected to grow modestly, driven by capacity expansions in chemicals, fibreglass, biofuels and synthetic fuels, even as automotive use declines 5% amid the shift to battery electric powertrains.

Palladium, which faced structural deficits from 2012 to 2024, should reach equilibrium in 2025 as stronger recycling in China offsets reduced primary output from South Africa and the U.S., despite weaker scrap flows elsewhere, and a 5% drop in automotive palladium use.

The rhodium market is forecast to stay in deficit after South African supply falls and auto consumption dips, while industrial demand rebounds with normalized glass-industry purchasing. Ruthenium demand is set to climb 2% on data-centre expansions and robust chemical catalyst use, likely resulting in a significant shortfall without further inventory drawdowns. A slight rise in iridium production should help balance that market, as lower chemical usage is offset by increased crucible demand.

Rupen Raithatha, market research director, noted that uncertainty over U.S. import tariffs could weaken vehicle output and scrap volumes, posing downside risks. Margery Ryan, advocacy and market development manager, added that increased defence spending may drive additional PGM demand given their vital role in military and aerospace technologies.

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Cirtec Medical expands operations in Costa Rica to support growing demand

Cirtec Medical, Alajuela, Costa Rica announced that it is more than doubling its manufacturing footprint in the Coyol Free Zone to meet rising needs in neuromodulation, interventional, electrophysiology and structural heart markets. The 50,000-plus square foot expansion will add extrusion, braiding, coil winding, device assembly and packaging capabilities alongside the company’s existing facility.

The move is expected to accelerate customers’ time-to-market, optimize costs through greater vertical integration and broaden the company’s end-to-end product-lifecycle services, which span research and development in the U.S. through production in Costa Rica.

Cirtec’s chief executive explained that Costa Rica has evolved into a vital hub for high-quality medical device manufacturing, and the enlarged site will deliver faster turnaround and expanded offerings while preserving quality standards.

Costa Rica’s minister of foreign trade noted that the investment underscores the country’s appeal for foreign direct investment, reflecting confidence in its institutional framework, investment promotion policies and stability to host complex global operations. The foreign trade agency’s general manager added that the expansion demonstrates the maturity of Costa Rica’s industrial ecosystem, access to specialized talent and competitive conditions that attract medical-technology leaders.

Cirtec’s local general manager said the additional capacity will allow the team to leverage a highly educated workforce to shorten development timelines and enhance flexibility for customers worldwide.

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Air Products to withdraw from three US projects, refocuses on core hydrogen and energy initiatives

Air Products, Allentown, PA, announced that it will exit three U.S.-based projects as part of a strategic review initiated by its newly elected board of directors and chief executive officer. The decision, intended to sharpen the company’s project portfolio and resource allocation, is expected to result in a pre-tax charge of up to $3.1 billion in its fiscal second quarter of 2025. The charge, which covers asset write-downs and the termination of contractual commitments, will not affect the company’s adjusted earnings per share for the fiscal year.

The canceled projects include:

  • World Energy Partnership, Paramount, CA: Air Products has terminated its agreement with World Energy for the expansion of a Sustainable Aviation Fuel project, citing challenging commercial conditions and operational concerns.
  • Massena, NY Green Hydrogen Facility: The company has canceled plans for a 35 metric ton per day green liquid hydrogen plant, along with associated distribution and dispensing infrastructure. The decision was influenced by recent regulatory changes that rendered hydroelectric power ineligible for the federal Clean Hydrogen Production Tax Credit (45V), as well as slower-than-anticipated hydrogen mobility market growth in the region.
  • Carbon Monoxide Project in Texas: A planned carbon monoxide production facility has been canceled due to unfavorable economic conditions.

Air Products also reaffirmed its focus on two major initiatives: the NEOM green hydrogen project in Saudi Arabia, which is nearing 80% completion and targeting green ammonia production by late 2026; and the Louisiana Clean Energy Complex, expected to start operations in 2028. The company is actively seeking equity partners for the Louisiana project to optimize capital deployment, particularly in the ammonia loop and carbon sequestration segments.

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Daido Steel launches new vacuum arc remelting plant to meet semiconductor industry demand

Daido Steel Co. Ltd., Nagoya, Japan, announced the successful start of operations at its new vacuum arc remelting (VAR) plant at the company’s Chita site. Developed in collaboration with ALD Vacuum Technologies, the plant is designed to increase production capacity for high-purity stainless steels and nickel alloys used in high-performance applications, particularly within the semiconductor industry.

The first VAR plant became operational in December 2024, with finished ingots now undergoing downstream processing. A second remelting unit is scheduled to begin operation in March 2025, with additional capacity expansions planned over the coming years.

The custom-designed VAR plant, supplied by ALD, enables the production of ultra-clean steel with a homogeneous microstructure, meeting the stringent quality standards required for semiconductor components. VAR-processed materials are known for their durability, purity, and consistency, making them ideal for critical industries.

Daido Steel’s investment reflects a strategic move to support the growing global demand for advanced materials in next-generation technologies. The company continues to position itself as a key supplier in the global supply chain for high-performance alloys.

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One minute Mentor: Tool Steels Heat Treatment Simulation Example

The potential of high-temperature simulation (HTS) is demonstrated through the case of a low-silicon, vacuum-arc-melted and remelted H11 hot-work tool steel. To validate the HTS model, a cylindrical steel sample with a diameter and length of 100 mm (4 inches) was selected due to the efficiency benefits of using a simplified 2D geometry. The simulation was calibrated using time-temperature-transformation (TTT) diagrams and thermal expansion data obtained from dilatometer experiments. Initial validation focused on comparing simulated phase-transformation behavior with actual dilatometer curves, showing good agreement in key areas such as thermal expansion, austenite formation (with carbides), subsequent contraction, and the transformation kinetics of austenite into martensite, bainite, and pearlite. The model does not currently account for the precipitation of proeutectoid carbides.

For more information, click on the link below (subscription required). Then scroll to Figure 16. R Schneider; R. Mesquita; W Schützenhöfer, Distortion in Tool Steels, ASM International, 2014  https://doi.org/10.31399/asm.hb.v04d.a0005980

Constellium publishes 2024 sustainability report outlining decarboConstellium publishes 2024 sustainability report outlining decarbonization and recycling milestonesnization and recycling milestones

Constellium, Paris, announced that it has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, detailing progress toward its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals and reinforcing its commitment to building a sustainable, circular economy. The report highlights advancements in aluminum recycling, decarbonization initiatives, workplace safety, and gender equity.

Among the year’s key accomplishments is the opening of a €130 million recycling facility in Neuf-Brisach, France, which increases the company’s global recycling capacity to more than 750,000 metric tons per year. The site enhances automotive and packaging recycling by 75%, reduces annual carbon emissions by approximately 400,000 metric tons CO₂eq, and integrates biodiversity assessments and energy-efficient technologies.

In line with its decarbonization strategy, Constellium also decommissioned its final coal-powered energy source at the Singen plant in Germany. The closure is projected to cut direct greenhouse gas emissions at the site by more than 25% between 2021 and 2025.

Further emphasizing innovation, Constellium completed its first industrial-scale hydrogen casting at its C-TEC R&D facility in July. This pilot project substituted natural gas with hydrogen to produce a 12-metric-ton aluminum slab for electric vehicle applications, showcasing the potential of hydrogen to lower emissions in industrial processes.

The company’s sustainability efforts have been validated through independent certifications. All Constellium operations were certified under the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative’s Performance Standard v3.0, recognizing best practices in emissions reduction, waste management, and human rights. Constellium also maintained a Gold rating from EcoVadis and an AA rating from MSCI for its ESG performance.

Jean-Marc Germain, chief executive officer, emphasized aluminum’s role in advancing low-carbon manufacturing, noting its recyclability and efficiency in lightweight applications. He reiterated the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable solutions across the aluminum value chain.

Read further here: Constellium’s sustainability page.

ACE press celebrates 150 years of forging innovation and industry leadership

ACE, Erie, PA, announced the celebration of its 150th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history as a leader in forging and metal-forming technology. With roots tracing back to 1875, ACE has grown into North America’s largest supplier of forging and forming equipment, shaped by strategic mergers, decades of engineering expertise, and a commitment to customer success.

The company’s evolution was significantly driven by the merger of three industry pioneers—Ajax Manufacturing, Chambersburg Engineering Company (CECO), and Erie Press Systems. Together, they bring more than 400 years of combined experience in metal forming, enabling ACE to offer the most comprehensive range of forging and forming solutions in the industry.

Founded in 1875, Ajax Manufacturing built its reputation on high-quality forging hammers, presses, and upsetters. The company expanded in 2005 with the acquisition of CECO, a manufacturer specializing in hydraulic and mechanical forging technology since 1897. In 2019, Erie Press Systems, a specialist in stretch forming and hydraulic presses for aerospace and automotive applications, joined the group. This consolidation resulted in the formation of Ajax/CECO/Erie Press (ACE), a unified brand offering advanced equipment and services to a global client base.

Now operating under Park-Ohio Holdings Corp., a diversified industrial holding company based in Cleveland, ACE benefits from expanded engineering resources, global market access, and enhanced service capabilities. Its solutions support critical industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, defense, and heavy machinery manufacturing.

The company’s current portfolio includes forging hammers, hydraulic and mechanical presses, upsetters, ring rolling mills, and hydroforming systems. To ensure high equipment performance and longevity, ACE emphasizes five operational pillars: preventive maintenance, parts and repair programs, rebuilding and remanufacturing, automation upgrades, and modern human-machine interfaces (HMIs). Training programs further support workforce development and operational efficiency.

The 150-year milestone not only highlights ACE’s legacy of innovation but also its ongoing commitment to supporting modern manufacturers with equipment and practices that reduce downtime, improve safety, and drive productivity. As the forging industry continues to evolve, ACE aims to remain a trusted partner in advancing manufacturing excellence.

 

Read further here : www.AjaxErie.com 

Fort Wayne Metals receives 2025 Moving the Needle award for workplace equity

Fort Wayne Metals, Fort Wayne, IN, announced that it has received the 2025 Moving the Needle Award and Bronze-Level honors from the Women’s Fund of Greater Fort Wayne. The recognition was presented at the annual Women in the Workplace Luncheon held on March 12 at the Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation.

The Moving the Needle Award is given to the organization that demonstrates the most notable progress across four areas: leadership, compensation, benefits and policies, and recruitment and retention. The selection is based on data collected through the Women’s Fund’s annual Compass Survey, which evaluates local employers’ efforts toward achieving gender equity.

This year, a record 75 organizations participated in the survey, reflecting growing engagement across the community. Fort Wayne Metals’ recognition underscores its focused efforts to foster equitable workplace practices and support the advancement of women in its workforce.

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Enovis releases 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility Report highlighting commitment to sustainability and community engagement

Enovis Corporation, headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, announced the publication of its 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report, underscoring the company’s ongoing dedication to ethical practices, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. ​

The report details Enovis’ initiatives aimed at fostering a positive global impact. Key highlights include the implementation of energy-efficient technologies across manufacturing facilities, resulting in a measurable reduction in the company’s carbon footprint. Additionally, Enovis has expanded its community outreach programs, partnering with local organizations to support health and education initiatives.​

The CSR report also emphasizes Enovis’ commitment to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, showcasing programs designed to promote equitable opportunities and a supportive work environment for all employees. By aligning its business strategies with sustainable and socially responsible practices, Enovis aims to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of its stakeholders and the broader community.​

For a comprehensive overview of Enovis’ CSR initiatives and achievements, the full 2024 report is available on the company’s website.

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Constellium and renault group complete r&d project advancing lightweight aluminium solutions

Constellium, Paris, announced the successful completion of the “ISA3” R&D project, an initiative launched in 2021 to advance lightweight aluminium solutions for automotive applications. Conducted in collaboration with Renault Group, ESI Group, the Institut de Soudure, and the University of Lorraine, the project was supported by a grant from the France Relance investment program. The research focused on developing cost-efficient, recyclable aluminium components to enhance vehicle performance and sustainability.

A key achievement of the project was the development of a lightweight aluminium door in partnership with Renault. Utilizing Constellium’s proprietary uni-alloy 6xxx rolled and extrusion-based solutions, the door design achieved a 14% weight reduction compared to existing aluminium doors used in compact battery electric vehicles. By employing a single alloy series, the project streamlined closed-loop recycling, reducing the door’s overall carbon footprint. This innovation resulted in a 33% reduction in Global Warming Potential (GWP), reinforcing the project’s emphasis on sustainability.

Beyond material advancements, the project also explored more efficient and flexible production processes to enhance performance while optimizing costs. Ludovic Piquier, senior vice president, manufacturing excellence and chief technical officer at Constellium, emphasized that the results highlight the company’s commitment to providing sustainable, high-performance aluminium solutions for the automotive sector.

Patrice Belliard, expert in flat products at Renault Group, noted that the project demonstrated how aluminium can support both weight reduction and cost efficiency in automotive manufacturing. Mathilde Chabin, manufacturing product director at ESI Group, added that the use of advanced pre-certification and validation technologies eliminated the need for physical prototypes, accelerating innovation while reducing costs and environmental impact.

The completion of Project ISA3 underscores the potential of aluminium to contribute to the automotive industry’s decarbonization efforts while delivering economic and environmental benefits.

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Integer completes sale of Electrochem business, focusing on medical technology

Integer Holdings Corp., Plano, Texas, announced that it has finalized the divestiture of its Electrochem business to Ultralife Corp. for $50 million in cash. The sale marks Integer’s transition to a pure-play medical technology company, allowing it to focus exclusively on the development and manufacturing of medical devices.

The proceeds from the transaction will be used to reduce the company’s outstanding debt. Joseph Dziedzic, president and chief executive officer at Integer, emphasized that this move positions the company to allocate resources toward high-growth opportunities within the medical technology sector. He also expressed gratitude to the Electrochem team for their contributions over the years and confidence in their future under Ultralife’s ownership.

The divestiture aligns with Integer’s strategic goal to concentrate on advancing its role as a leading contract development and manufacturing organization for the medical device industry.

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Fort Wayne metals introduces customizable tube for medical applications

Fort Wayne Metals, Ind., announced that it has developed HHS tube, an innovative product with a highly customizable structure designed to meet the specific functional requirements of various medical applications. This advancement is intended to address the increasing demand for versatile and reliable metal tubing in devices such as endovascular tools, minimally invasive instruments, neurological components, and urological devices.

HHS tube stands out from conventional tubing due to its ability to be tailored to precise specifications. The product can be manufactured in single, two, or three-layer stranded configurations, with customization options that include inner and outer diameters, wire count and size, pitch direction, and overall length. Inner diameters range from 80 µm to 2.2 mm, while outer diameters span 0.13 mm to 4 mm, allowing it to meet a wide variety of customer requirements.

The versatility of HHS tube makes it suitable for a broad range of applications. For example, neurological stimulation devices require thin, flexible filaments to navigate small and complex areas, while vascular tools demand elongation and compressive strength to deliver instruments to targeted sites. Endoscopy devices benefit from the tube’s ability to provide rotational control in navigating the body. Each configuration of the HHS tube is engineered to meet the specific functional demands of the application.

Fort Wayne Metals also offers custom finishing options to streamline the supply chain for its customers. These include custom fittings, terminations, Nitinol coatings, and specialized parts to support seamless integration into final medical device assemblies. This capability underscores the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the medical sector.

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SECO/WARWICK supplies vacuum furnaces to Huake Casting Control Technology Co., Ltd.

SECO/WARWICK, Meadville, PA, will provide a horizontal vacuum heat treatment furnace equipped with a graphite heating chamber and a 15 bar absolute gas quenching system. The furnace will be used by the Chinese manufacturer to produce components for the aviation and energy industries.

The Vector furnace, known for its versatility and modular design, is a widely used solution in over 70 countries. It offers a broad range of heat treatment processes, making it adaptable to specific manufacturing needs. Its low energy consumption and minimal emissions make it environmentally friendly, aligning with SECO/WARWICK’s commitment to sustainability.

The furnace also guarantees precise, repeatable results due to uniform temperature control, ensuring high-quality components and surface protection. Vector furnaces are popular for metal heat treatment worldwide, particularly for industries requiring precision and reliability.

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Dean Schauer appointed chairman of the board at Confluent Medical Technologies

Confluent Medical Technologies, Scottsdale, AZ, announced that Dean Schauer has been appointed Chairman of the Board, effective September 9, 2024.

Schauer, who has served as the company’s CEO for over a decade, will now take on the additional role of Chairman while continuing his responsibilities as CEO and President. Schauer expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by investors and employees, stating, “I am honored to guide the company into the next phase as we continue to deliver value to our partners and the patients they serve.”

Under Schauer’s leadership, Confluent has seen significant growth, with revenue more than quadrupling. His appointment aligns with the company’s strategic goals to enhance its materials science capabilities and expand customer partnerships. Earlier this year, Confluent welcomed Sandy Stojkovski and Brian Yoor to the board, further strengthening its leadership team. TPG, a global asset management firm, invested in Confluent in 2022, underscoring confidence in Schauer’s leadership.

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Enovis opens new global business technology center in Lisbon to support growth

Enovis, Portugal, announced the opening of its new business technology center in Lisbon, Portugal. The Enovis Global Business Technology Centre will support the company’s international Prevention & Recovery (P&R) group, focusing on automation, digital capabilities, and integrating artificial intelligence to enhance workflows and improve customer experiences.

The center will accommodate 100 employees, with plans to recruit 40 by the end of 2024 to manage finance and business operations, as well as serve as a digital platform for supply chain, sales, and customer experience applications. The center, led by Elisabeth Drouffe, will also be a space for Kaizens, training sessions, and international events. Initially, it will serve most European countries and potentially Canada in the future.

Cathal O’Donnell, president of International P&R at Enovis, stated, “Lisbon was the perfect choice with its vibrant tech scene, multicultural talent, and great quality of life.”

Since 2019, Enovis has made 20 acquisitions and established market-leading positions in various medical technology fields. The new centre aims to provide strategic advantages and support the company’s global expansion in key innovation areas.

Filipe Santos Costa, chairman & CEO of AICEP, Portugal’s Trade & Investment Agency, welcomed Enovis, highlighting Portugal’s robust digital infrastructure and position as a European tech hub.

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Solar Manufacturing ships Mentor Pro Furnace to a global leader of wire mesh products

Solar Manufacturing, Sellersville, PA, has shipped a Mentor Pro Model HFL-3036-2IQ vacuum furnace to a customer specializing in engineered knitted wire mesh solutions. 

They are a USA-based company and a global supplier for the automotive, food service, and janitorial industries. The furnace will be primarily utilized for vacuum annealing materials that are susceptible to adverse effects of their mechanical properties when exposed to any levels of oxygen or nitrogen.

The Mentor® Pro features a molybdenum shielded hot zone measuring 18” wide x 18” high x 36” deep, capable of operating temperatures up to 2400°F, and a workload weight capacity of up to 1,000 lbs and includes the SolarVac® Essentials PLC-based control system. The internal gas cooling system with a 50 HP drive motor is capable of quenching workloads at 2-bar positive pressure in either nitrogen or argon.

Jason Davidson, regional sales manager, said that, “Our customer started running trials with our affiliate commercial heat treater, Solar Atmospheres. Once the trial results proved the heat-treat cycle, and the furnace demonstrated it could process the required quantities, the customer had confidence to place the purchase order with us.”

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Can-Eng commissions mesh belt furnace overseas

Can-Eng Furnaces, Niagara, Ontario,  has commissioned a continuous mesh belt heat-treat system for the production of high-quality automotive fasteners in Italy.

This project in the Piedmont region of Italy was one of four installation locations for this globally recognized producer of specialty automotive fasteners that span from Europe, South America, Mexico, and the United States of America.

Can-Eng Furnaces International Ltd was chosen to supply its state-of-the-art systems based on proven reliability, efficiency, and soft-part-handling features — hallmarks of Can-Eng’s mesh belt furnace systems. The new, high-volume fastener system features energy efficient combustion and waste heat recovery systems, atmosphere-controlled mesh belt hardening system, oil quench, post wash system, temper furnace, soluble oil system, bi-directional conveyor discharge, and Can-Eng’s Level 2 SCADA system. Can-Eng’s PET™ system provides the user with access to vital Industry 4.0 data which includes product traceability, detailed process data for continuous process improvements, comprehensive equipment diagnostics, cost analysis, and inventory management.

https://thermalprocessing.com/news/can-eng-commissions-mesh-belt-furnace-overseas/