Sankyo-Tateyama Holdings’ subsidiary, Sankyo Material will start commercial production of continuous casting magnesium alloy billet for forgings in the year. The metal is used for mechanical parts of industrial machinery. The firm tries to ship for automobile and other transport applications in 4-5 years.
The firm developed world first insulating mold continuous casting process of magnesium alloy in April through development program with New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)’s subsidy. The firm now develops mass production technology by 2012-2013. The firm starts the sales for forging makers in the year. The firm tries to develop new applications including industrial robot and optical instruments. The firm also expects potential demand is promising for artificial leg and other welfare area due to the light and strong property. The firm targets annual 100 tonnes of sales of the product in 2016 after the firm develops new applications including motorcycle, automobile and other transport area. The firm already supplies sample for automotive parts makers. The firm tries to improve the cost and quality. The firm eyes potential export for European market.