Parker acquires Indian hydraulics business
Parker Hannifin Corp. announced in mid-July that it had acquired the hydraulics manufacturing division of PIX Transmissions Ltd. based in Nagpur, India. PIX manufactures a range of hydraulic and industrial hose, hose assemblies, and fittings primarily used in general engineering, marine, agriculture, mining, construction, and HVAC markets. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquired business has annual sales of approximately $13 million, employs 470 people, and includes a recently upgraded $25 million manufacturing plant in Nagpur. The division will be integrated into Parker's Fluid Connectors Group, and sales will be reported as part of the International Industrial Segment. “The acquisition of the PIX hose and fittings business will allow us to solidify our position in India, which is a strategically important growth market, while establishing an important base to support growth in the region,” said Bob Bond, President of Parker's Fluid Connectors Group.
SAE launches A/C conformance program and database
In response to industry and consumer requests, SAE International has developed a new program to provide conformance measures for the mobile air-conditioning (MAC) industry. Overseen by SAE International's Interior Climate Control Standards Committee, the program offers a procedure for certifying compliance with appropriate SAE International technical standards. It can be used by MAC manufacturers, along with testing facilities and providers of technical training. While certification of any product is voluntary, suppliers or manufacturers that advertise their products as certified to an SAE International “J” standard are required to follow the procedures established by the respective program (the organization has similar conformance programs addressing engine power ratings). In this case, the certification is designed to raise the level of confidence and to assure consumers of MAC components, equipment, and technician training programs that the providers are following and meeting the expected performance criteria set by SAE International standards. The program is governed by SAE J2911—“Procedure for Certification that Requirements for Mobile Air Conditioning System Components, Service Equipment, and Service Technician Training Meet SAE J Standards,” a revised version of which was issued in January. MAC industry suppliers may register for the program at http://macdb.sae.org/. The SAE MAC Manufacturer Database website also provides information about companies that have submitted claims of conformance. For more information, contact SAE conformance program manager Gary Pollak at gary@sae.org.
Takata to purchase defense safety businesses
Takata Corp. recently entered an agreement for the purchase of the BAE Systems Safety Products Inc. and Schroth Safety Products GmbH businesses from BAE Systems for cash consideration of approximately $32 million. The businesses include operations in Pompano Beach, FL, and Arnsberg, Germany, and employ about 150 people who design and manufacture occupant restraints and safety products used across commercial and defense ground and aerospace platforms. The purchase of the Safety Products and Schroth businesses is expected to close during the first quarter of 2012. Takata’s technology portfolio focuses on safety restraint systems, airbags, safety electronics, interior trim, and special fabrics and textile materials.
Magna Seating expands into bus, light train sectors
Magna International Inc.’s Magna Seating operating unit has acquired the assets and business of Vogelsitze GmbH in Karlsruhe-Stupferich, Germany, a company that specializes in the development and production of seats for the bus and light train industries. Sales for 2011 are expected to be about EUR19 million. The acquisition expands Magna Seating’s global footprint, strengthens its position in the German market, and enhances its product portfolio. Vogelsitze’s current production customers include MAN, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Bombardier, VDL, and GAZ. The company also has licensed a number of its patents to other bus seat manufacturers worldwide. No additional details regarding the transaction are being disclosed.
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