Symalit AG (CH-5600 Lenzburg), a 100% subsidiary of Shell (Switzerland) since 1988, has invested SFr 15-20m to double its production capacity for GMT (glass matt reinforced thermoplastic) composite materials. Total tonnage was not released. Productivity has been greatly improved by the capacity increase, according to reports from Lenzberg. This enables Symalit AG to further strengthen its established position as GMT products supplier to the European automobile industry. Symalit AG's turnover is approximately SFr 70m. Thermoplastic fluoropolymer parts and protective cable sheathing are manufactured as well as GMT. Employees number 210.

GMT composites are used by almost all leading European automobile manufacturers. The material is well established in load-bearing structural parts, such as seat back-rests, front ends, motor compartment cladding, bumper bar carriers and battery carriers. Volkswagen's decision to use GMT for the front end assembly support for the Golf model series led to the European breakthrough for this material. Symalit is counting on above average growth rates, in spite of the sharp decline in automobile production "thanks to its widespread European support base and ability to supply top quality just-in-time material".

READER SERVICE: Company brochure Symalit: PIE-No. 30334 – GMT brochure with examples of applications: PIE-No. 35651.