Asahi Kasei’s Fibers & Textiles SBU will expand its production capacity for Leona nylon 66 filament in Nobeoka, Miyazaki, Japan by approximately 5,000 ton/year from the current capacity of about 33,000 ton/year.
Groundbreaking is set for this February, and start-up is scheduled for the first half of fiscal 2019.
With exceptional strength, heat resistance, durability and light weight, Leona nylon 66 filament is widely used in industrial applications, notably airbags and tire cords for the automotive industry. Under the Cs for Tomorrow 2018 medium-term management initiative, Asahi Kasei has identified automotive markets as a focus for expansion in the Material sector, which includes fiber and textile operations. Leona nylon 66 filament is enjoying remarkable growth in its predominant application of airbags, as vehicle production in Asia increases, and the airbag installation rate is rising in line with heightened safety requirements. This capacity expansion will enable Asahi Kasei to meet increasing demand as the market continues to grow.
Ryujiro Yoshino, Senior General Manager of the Leona Filament Division, says, “With the increased capacity for Leona nylon 66 filament, we will meet the strong demand growth which is being driven by greater vehicle production, stricter safety regulations, and the use of more airbags per vehicle. We will work to further enhance our supply configuration, considering subsequent capacity expansions, as we continue to expand the business.”