JEC COMPOSITES MAGAZINE - Issue #70 - January/February 2012 - 11

in this difficult situation. Spheretex emerged from this crisis stronger than before. It is good to see that our efforts are paying off and that our products are recognized in FRP industries worldwide.
JCM: Following America, China and the new production line in Germany, are you considering new investments?

S. G. : After having established our sales

office in China, the next effort will be to strengthen and train the sales team. Our cus-

tomers should get the best possible technical support all over the world. Besides increasing our activities on the Chinese market, we will also expand our business throughout Asia. The same applies for our subsidiary in the USA and the South American market. Generally speaking, it is our target to be present all over the world. There are still some ideas for new products, new machines, new technologies... but all this needs to be brought into shape before I can bring it into words. 25th anniversary, the product sphere.tex was the reason for a huge investment in the production facilities in Hilden. In the summer of 2011, a period when business usually slows down, the width of the Spheretex line was enlarged by 70 cm. This satisfied a major expectation of customers by offering products in widths of 340 cm. Furthermore, the upgraded machine increases the efficiency of the production line and flexibility of the portfolio.

JCM: What are the next challenges for Spheretex?

S. G. : Every entrepreneur puts a lot of heart
and soul into his own business. So do I. It is my target to strengthen the company and to make it grow further during the next years.

I am proud that we have always been able to offer innovative products meeting the customers’ needs. New developments will also be one of the key factors determining our success in the future. to polyester and vinyl ester compatible grades, Spheretex products compatible with epoxy resins are now available as well. Moreover, all the products will be available in versions capable of withstanding higher temperatures (HT version) in the future. The various needs of the market can be satisfied by this diversified product range. Thus Spheretex strengthens its competence as a premium manufacturer and supplier of specialties for the composite industry. n
More information: www.spheretex.com

During a business trip to China in June 2011, President Gerhards sealed a deal to form a Chinese subsidiary. Based in Shanghai, Spheretex China Co., Ltd. operates independently as a sales office. All products are stocked there, just like at Spheretex America. Regional sales managers were recruited to provide the best possible service to customers in China. Being present in this booming economy is indispensable for ensuring the continued success of Spheretex at the same pace. Enlarging the production line Spheretex’ oldest product is still alive and kicking. As the company celebrated its

Technical innovations
Two additional technical innovations were launched last October. In addition

in brief
Eisenmann acquires carbonization specialist Ruhstrat
On 19 October, Eisenmann AG acquired Ruhstrat GmbH, headquartered in Bovenden-Lenglern, near the German town of Göttingen. Ruhstrat’s core competencies include the development and construction of industrial carbonization furnaces. Plant engineering specialist Eisenmann’s portfolio already includes oxidation ovens and exhaust air treatment systems for carbon fibre production – the deal means the company can now offer turnkey solutions for this industry. Eisenmann, based in Böblingen near Stuttgart, aims to become a global technology and market leader for carbon fibre production equipment. www.eisenmann.com

Ilium begins structural composite reinforcement production
Ilium has begun its production of glass fibre structural composite reinforcements in Bahrain and manufacturing has progressed smoothly. One range of products is dedicated to closed mould processes (RTM, light RTM, press…) and another range to the pultrusion process. www.ilium.pro

mer – the French Air Force. The fuselage for this aircraft, known as MSN7, arrived at the final assembly line in Seville (Spain) on-board an Airbus Beluga. The wings and nose arrived some days earlier and the integration of the central box and outer wings has already begun. The horizontal tailplane (HTP) is expected next week and the vertical tailplane (VTP) in two weeks’ time. France will receive its first A400M military airlifter around the turn of the year 2012/2013. Eight serial A400M aircraft are already at different stages of production.
www.eads.com

Airbus Military begins final assembly of the first A400M for France
Following the launch of A400M series production last February, Airbus Military has begun final assembly of the first A400M that will be delivered to a custo-

No70 January - February 2012 /

jec composites magazine 11

http://www.spheretex.com http://www.ilium.pro http://www.eisenmann.com http://www.eads.com

JEC COMPOSITES MAGAZINE - Issue #70 - January/February 2012

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of JEC COMPOSITES MAGAZINE - Issue #70 - January/February 2012