BUDAPEST, Hungary (Nov. 10) — Columbian Chemicals Co. is planning to expand capacity at its Columbian Tiszai Carbon Ltd. unit in Hungary by more than 50 percent beyond the plant's existing annual capacity of 65,000 metric tons.
"The investment demonstrates our continuing commitment to grow with our customers, who have already invested heavily in Central Europe," said James Howard, senior vice president of sales, marketing and carbon black technology. "We are well positioned in the region, and this expansion will ensure that Columbian remains a leader and continues to deliver world-class products and services."
Both Bridgestone Corp. and Hankook Tire Co. Ltd. are building new tire factories in Hungary, while Pirelli Tyre S.p.A. recently opened a plant in Romania and is planning to begin mixing operations there next year.
Columbian said it is "designing the unit with state-of-the-art technology and the latest environmental and energy conservation technologies, including cogeneration facilities that will allow for the efficient recovery of energy. Detailed engineering plans are under way, and construction will begin during the first quarter of 2007."
Columbian did not disclose the investment or the timetable for completing the expansion.