NLM to Expand Continuous Cast Al Sheet by 20% in F2008

Nippon Light Metal plans to increase the output of continuous casting aluminium sheet by 20% to 300 tonnes per month through fiscal 2008 (Apr08-Mar09) compared with fiscal 2007. The firm manufactures the product by FLEXCASTER, a unique continuous casting machine for aluminium sheet. The firm cultivates new applications of the product mainly for automobiles and aims to expand the output to around 10,000 tonnes per annum during next 3-5 years.FLEXCASTER was co-developed by Nippon Light Metal and Alcan International (currently Novelis), based on Alcan International’s belt-type casting machine technology. FLEXCASTER can fabricate difficult-to-cast alloys highly containing magnesium or iron. Additionally the products casted by the equipment show good functions such as high strength, formability, electric and heat conductivity. The products could be suitable for various new applications, mainly for automotive parts.Nippon Light Metal has tried to increase the sales mainly for automobiles. The firm started commercial production of 5000 series alloy sheet material and the product was adopted to hood inner panel of Honda Motors’ Acura RL. The firm also started sales of 3000 series alloy sheet material which represents high strength and heat resistance.The firm is actively cultivating other applications such as cooking pot, construction materials, electric and electronic appliances.