ContiTech opens 3D blow molding plant in China

ContiTech A.G. has expanded its footprint in China with the opening of an $11.7 million plant that is mainly dedicated to the production of 3D blow molded hoses used in high-performance turbochargers for auto makers.

The facility in Changshu is ContiTech's fourth globally to feature 3D blow mold technology, and it expands the firm's products and solutions portfolio with the Chinese automotive industry. Mass production should begin by the end of the 2018 third quarter.

"The investment into the new plant underlines our focus on and commitment to the Chinese domestic market, especially the automotive market," Thomas Reichenbach, manager of the 3D blow molding project of mobile fluid systems, a business unit of Continental Corp., said in a statement.

ContiTech confirmed to European Rubber Journal, that the hoses manufactured at the Changshu site will be made of thermoplastic elastomer materials, which contribute lighter weight parts and increased performance, leading to better fuel efficiency.

Additionally, with the adoption of the blow molding technology, ContiTech expects pollution emissions to be reduce during production, meeting the requirements for sustainable liquidity and improving the utilization rate of production materials. Another advantage of the new production process is the elimination of production and assembly of intermediate parts by automotive parts suppliers.

"By relying on the 3D blow molding technology, auto parts manufacturers will (be) shortening the supply chain, improving the production efficiency… and ultimately meeting the needs of auto makers for rapid production and iteration," ContiTech said.

In addition to Changshu, Continental operates 3D blow molding plants in Waltershausen, Germany, Somersworth, N.H., and San Luis Potosi, Mexico.