By LizWhite, UT staff
Cambridge, Ontario-Canadian General-Tower Ltd (CGT), a North American supplier of automotive interior coverstock, is to add polyurethane-coated fabric to its range of materials. This development follows the signing of an exclusive worldwide distribution agreement between CGT and Korean manufacturer DooRim, with its partner CH Draw.
DooRim is an established manufacturer of polyurethane-coated fabric, according to a statement from CGT, which added that the Korean company has "broad capabilities and a strong record for quality." CH Draw, which has offices in Korea and Wichita, Kansas, will guide and represent DooRim in providing the interiors materials major with the polyurethane-coated fabrics (PU) for automotive uses.
Via this long-term agreement, CGT said, it will "meet current demand for PU in North America and Asia, and anticipate future demand in Europe."
"This addition of PU to CGT's diverse portfolio of coated fabrics increases value to CGT customers," the Cambridge, Ontario-based group said.
CGT will now be able to offer a one-stop shop for coverstock, shortening the development cycle, CGT added. PU extends CGT's coverstock range, which includes polyvinyl chloride, thermoplastic olefins and protein-based materials. The company supplies to DaimlerChrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Toyota.
CGT will supply the vehicle producers with PU, starting this year. The materials are used for seating surfaces, headrests, armrests, door inserts, instrument panel pads, centre console lids and steering wheel covers. The Canadian supplier said these applications for PU fulfill "consumer preferences for softer materials that offer a feel of luxury."
CGT claims to be America's "leading supplier of polymeric cover stocks" for soft interior trim, and estimates that it supplies material on about 80 percent of vehicles produced in the region.
The company also makes flexible plastic film for use in pool liners, roofing and containment membranes, marine seating and stationary binders. CGT said it produces about 100 million metres of flexible film per year.
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