JCTMA Launches Recognition System for Environmental Tools

Japan Cemented Carbide Tool Manufacturers’ Association (JCTMA) started a new recognition system for environment-conscious cemented carbide tools not including materials prohibited by European Union’s Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). JCTMA examines cemented carbide tools applied from the makers and invests the original label for certified products every 1-2 months. The system covers not only domestic products but offshore tools. The system targets JCTMA members at first and will cover non-members in future.The recognition system launched after 4-year preparation. JCTMA held a seminar on the recognition system for its members and accepted 36 applications from 8 tool makers so far. The system targets cemented carbide tools released within a year and not including materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium and bromine fire retardant which are prohibited by RoHS.The certified products will be listed on JCTMA’s web site (http://www.jctma.jp) and be provided JCTMA’s original label. The label can be carried on the certified products, the web site, the catalogs or the packages. There is no expiration date for the recognition while the certified year and the recognition number are printed in the label.