Ductile Iron grows market share

European production of Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI) castings expanded significantly in 2004, according to specialist heat treaters ADI Treatments.

European production of Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI) castings expanded significantly in 2004, according to specialist heat treaters ADI Treatments.

Speaking from the factory in West Bromwich, Managing Director Simon Day said that the company's throughput grew by 30% over 2003 levels.

Part of the increase was as a result of new business from continental foundries.

Day added that other major ADI producers have experienced growth in the region of 30% and that total UK production now stands at about 6000 tonnes/year.

From contact with ADI overseas associates he was also able to estimate the volumes produced in mainland Europe and the Rest of the World at 14,000 and 70,000 tonnes respectively.

Day spoke confidently about the future for ADI materials in Europe, "Our USA partners have seen steady growth for more than 10 years and our market in Europe appears to be following the same path.

We are expanding our production capacity by more than 50% in the coming months to meet demand from new customers in the Wind Turbine and Automotive industries.

ADI Treatments operates special Austempering furnaces utilising controlled atmosphere and sealed quench technology to provide a service to foundries and other components producers.

The company is happy to advise on the suitability of Austempered Irons and Steels for customer applications.

Back to top