PolyOne expands Pune plant with new TPE line and Technology Centre

PolyOne has announced the opening of a new, state-of-the-art thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) production line at its Pune facility. In addition, the company opened a new Technology Centre that will house an advanced laboratory for new and existing R&D activities.

The highly automated and dedicated TPE line is the first of its kind in India, and is designed to manufacture GLS TPEs exclusively to maintain the highest levels of material quality. Adding this line also increases PolyOne’s global footprint for consistent material formulations in all global regions.

Making these materials available locally, rather than importing them, will improve lead times and the ability to collaborate on custom formulations. Both the new TPE line and Technology Centre are staffed by dedicated and highly skilled associates.

“India is an emerging market with one of the fastest growing economies in the world,” said Mr. Holger Kronimus, Vice President, Europe, at PolyOne. “We are committed to serving the needs of local and multinational manufacturers who operate here, and this recent expansion illustrates that commitment.”

Expanded capabilities

PolyOne opened a new facility in Pune in 2014, initially focused on the production of colorant and additive concentrates to serve end markets such as transportation, electronics & electrical, healthcare, wire & cable, and packaging. The company expanded manufacturing capability to include specialty engineered materials last year. With the most recent addition of TPE production, PolyOne enables manufacturers to source all of their specialty polymer requirements from a single domestic source.

“We’re now able to better serve our valued customers in India with domestic production of TPEs,” said Mr. Vikas Vij, Managing Director, India, at PolyOne. “In addition, our increased technology and sales personnel will help maximize the innovation, collaboration and service we provide to them.”

PolyOne also conducted an educational event for customers, prior to the inauguration of the new TPE line and Technology Centre.