Columbian confirms 35kt carbon black expansion in Hungary

Budapest, Hungary -- Columbian Chemicals Co. has confirmed that it is to expand its Columbian Tiszai Carbon, Ltd. unit in Hungary. In a statement, Columbian said, " The expansion includes the addition of tread and carcass capacity, increasing the facility's production capacity by over 50 percent." Columbian currently lists the unit's capacity as 65 000 tonnes/year.

“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.”

In a statement, 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 underway, and construction will begin during the first quarter of 2007."