Compounder gets new FR-ABS technology.

Albis Plastics of Rosenberg, Texas, has a new license to produce the full line of flame-retardant ABS compounds, including high-heat grades, of Samsung Cheil Industries in Korea. All these grades have certified UL ratings and can be compounded into a wide range of colors for such applications as computer housings, handheld electronics, and domestic electrical boxes. Albis has distributed standard grades and colors of Samsung Cheil FR-ABS for more than 10 years. Those grades are used in such diverse areas as pool-pump components, refrigerator parts, and electrical connectors.

Albis and Samsung expect to announce shortly the addition of some new halogen-free grades, for which they see a growing need in North America, particularly from European-based OEMs that have specified such materials to meet strict European FR regulations. "Albis has an established customer base in Europe and we are seeing many of these companies setting up operations in North America," says Stephen Gill, president/CEO of Albis North America. "Many of these companies want the same products and services in North America, and the addition of a halogen-free FR-ABS to our product line will enable us to meet their needs and also provide the opportunity for North American manufacturers to specify halogen-free grades in anticipation of more stringent legislation in the future." Tel: [phone], www.albisna.com