UNION TIRE CORD LTD.
Special Interview with Mr. Hideo Kunisada,
Technical Department Manager of Union Tire Cord Ltd.
The global economic crisis has slowed down the industrial material businesses. Though there is a sign of slight recovery, the stagnation is expected to continue.
In this severe market conditions, Union Tire Cord Ltd. is working aggressively on the development of new technology and new added value products, one of which is unwoven production and processing of tire cords made from recycled polyester.
We had a chance to talk to Mr. Hideo Kunisada, Technical Department Manager of Union Tire Cord Ltd.
Mr. Akiyasu Tarutani [Photo]
President of Union Tire Cord Ltd.
Mr. Hideo Kunisada [Interview]
Technical Department Manager of
Union Tire Cord Ltd.
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Please tell us about the current situation and trends in the business. |
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Mr. Kunisada
The production of tire cords had been in a slump because of the global recession, but the automobile industry has gradually recovered its production and we expect that the demand will recover in the near future.
However, we still have to continue our efforts to reduce the prices in order to meet the needs of auto and tire manufacturer. We also have to survive fierce international competition. We know that this is not going to get any easier.
With the growing concern over environmental issues, we believe that there will be more need for industrial rayon fiber, which has been unpopular due to its higher prices. It's used in Europe quite widely. We also expect that the so-called "super textile" aramid fiber is going to be more popular. It's strong and light, and frequently used in the production of aircraft wheels.
Talking about environmental preservation, we are now collecting recycled plastics to use in the production of tire cords (carcass material).
The demand for other general industrial materials will start increasing soon. We are particularly confident about hoses for auto manufacturing. One thing that is common to most of industrial materials is that the demand is shifting from glass (inorganic) to organic fibers, so that they can be recycled. We think that this trend will continue for a while. |
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What made you decide to use Muratec's twister? |
Mr. Kunisada
We have made business with Muratec for 20 years.
No.3M5 can twist rayon or aramid fiber efficiently without making them hairy. Having the minimum degree of hairiness is key to the quality of tire cords, and this is where No.3M5 shows the best of its high performance. No other twister can do it better.
That's what made us choose Muratec.
No.3M5 Cable Twister at Union Tire Cord |
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What is your opinion of No.3M5 now that you have actually used it? |
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Mr. Kunisada
We are happy with its mechanical design. The electric system could be better, but I'm sure it will be improved before long. When we make a request about the quality of their machines, they always respond to our needs very sincerely.
That's why we trust Muratec.
Moreover, they are very prompt when we order after-sales services or parts. |
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What do you expect from Muratec in the future? |
Mr. Kunisada
We would like them to continue their challenge of developing completely new technology that cannot be found anywhere else, such as, a twister that can process carbon fiber.
At our plant, we are constantly working to sustain and even improve the quality of products. There is no such thing as complete perfection. We would probably suggest improvement on the machines already being used at our plants.
No.3M5 Cable Twister at Union Tire Cord |
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Union Tire Cord is a wholly owned subsidiary of Teijin Fibers Ltd. in charge of its polyester business.
Specialized in the manufacture of tire cord fabric and conducts processing and sales of industrial materials.
The largest manufacturer of air conditioner hose material in Japan.
Distinguished in dip coating for their original technology and quality control method.
Most of the company's clients are Japan domestic users, who expect top quality service.
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The above information was written in September 2009.
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Japan
