Sumitomo Light Metal to Double Al Heat Exchanger Pipe in Czech

Sumitomo Light Metal Industries expands output capacity of its aluminium extrusion plant for in-vehicle air conditioners in the Czech. The firm will introduce another productive line for multi-channel aluminium pipe for automotive heat exchanger in addition to an existent line in Czech plant.Sumitomo Light Metal Industries started commercial operation of Czech plant in 2004 to provide high-functional aluminium extrusion materials for Japanese and European car air conditioner makers around the region. The plant is located in 40 kilometers northeast from Prague.The firm started operation of the plant with an expectation that adoption rate of car air conditioners would rise in Europe as high as Japan and the USA. Demand for in-vehicle air conditioners has grown up in Europe and the firm decided to expand the capacity to 5,000 tonnes per annum with 2 lines. Capital expenditure would add up to 2 billion yen.Sumitomo Light Metal Industries has built up production of automobile related products, for example, introducing another productive line for multi-channel aluminium pipe for automotive heat exchanger in Chiba plant, Japan. The firm aims to supply more high-value added materials for automotive heat exchanger along its 4-year management plan by fiscal 2010 ending March 2011.The firm plans consolidated capital expenditure at total 35 billion yen through 4 years to F2010 to strengthen core business units and develop thinner and lighter products.