Zinc futures prices on Monday moved up to 0.4 per cent as traders indulged in covering-up of short positions on good demand in the physical markets and firming trend overseas.
At the Multi Commodity Exchange counter, zinc for delivery in December traded higher by Rs 0.45, or 0.4 per cent, to Rs 112.70 per kg with an open interest of 4,809 lots.
January contract also moved up by Rs 0.35 or 0.31 per cent to Rs 113.05 per kg with an open interest of 1,039 lots.
Market analysts said the rise in zinc prices at futures market was mostly supported by covering-up of short positions by traders and firm trend in the spot markets on good demand from consuming industries.
Besides, firming trend at the London Metal Exchange also influenced prices, they said.
Meanwhile, at the LME zinc rose 0.42 per cent to $2,415 per tonne. — PTI
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/blnus/08211202.htm
Friday, December 25, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
Minmetals keen on Anglo's zinc assets
Several domestic metal firms including China Minmetals Corp are in the fray to acquire Anglo American's divested zinc assets, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Minmetals, Shenzhen-based Zhongjin Lingnan Nonfemet Co Ltd and Canadian mining company Teck Resources, in which Chinese sovereign wealth fund China Investment Corp owns a 17-percent stake, are in talks for the zinc assets to help secure supplies of resources, the source said.
"After Minmetals' takeover of Oz Minerals, its zinc business has started to grow. Seeking other zinc projects to meet its growing demand is in line with the company's business strategy," the source said. Zinc is widely used in die-casting and battery manufacturing.
Minmetals paid $1.4 billion for the acquisition of Oz Minerals including the Rosebery zinc mines in Australia.
A source from China Minmetals who declined to be named admitted that the company was keen on acquiring Anglo American's zinc assets, but refused to divulge any further details on grounds of confidentiality.
Anglo American said last month it was trimming part of its management and also selling non-core assets to cut costs. The assets included Scaw Metals, Copebras, Catalao and the group's portfolio of zinc assets. Together with the Tarmac unit, which has previously been identified as non-core, these assets accounted for nearly 11 percent of the group revenue in 2008.
Its zinc assets include the 100-percent-owned Skorpion mine in Namibia and Lisheen mine in Ireland, the 74-percent-owned Black Mountain mine and Gamsberg Project in South Africa. Anglo American's zinc businesses produced 340,500 tons of zinc and generated revenue of $209 million last year.
The 21st Century Business Herald said Anglo American held talks with Chinalco, the country's largest producer of aluminum, and Baosteel, the country's largest steel mill, over the Scaw Metals unit.
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2009-11/14/content_8971323.htm
Minmetals, Shenzhen-based Zhongjin Lingnan Nonfemet Co Ltd and Canadian mining company Teck Resources, in which Chinese sovereign wealth fund China Investment Corp owns a 17-percent stake, are in talks for the zinc assets to help secure supplies of resources, the source said.
"After Minmetals' takeover of Oz Minerals, its zinc business has started to grow. Seeking other zinc projects to meet its growing demand is in line with the company's business strategy," the source said. Zinc is widely used in die-casting and battery manufacturing.
Minmetals paid $1.4 billion for the acquisition of Oz Minerals including the Rosebery zinc mines in Australia.
A source from China Minmetals who declined to be named admitted that the company was keen on acquiring Anglo American's zinc assets, but refused to divulge any further details on grounds of confidentiality.
Anglo American said last month it was trimming part of its management and also selling non-core assets to cut costs. The assets included Scaw Metals, Copebras, Catalao and the group's portfolio of zinc assets. Together with the Tarmac unit, which has previously been identified as non-core, these assets accounted for nearly 11 percent of the group revenue in 2008.
Its zinc assets include the 100-percent-owned Skorpion mine in Namibia and Lisheen mine in Ireland, the 74-percent-owned Black Mountain mine and Gamsberg Project in South Africa. Anglo American's zinc businesses produced 340,500 tons of zinc and generated revenue of $209 million last year.
The 21st Century Business Herald said Anglo American held talks with Chinalco, the country's largest producer of aluminum, and Baosteel, the country's largest steel mill, over the Scaw Metals unit.
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2009-11/14/content_8971323.htm
Friday, November 6, 2009
Miner invests in zinc processing facility
THE LOCAL unit of Canadian miner TVI Pacific, Inc. has started the construction of a zinc processing facility in its copper mine in the province of Zamboanga del Norte.
The construction, which was started three months ahead of schedule, will enable the miner to sell more mineral resources from its Canatuan copper mine, TVI Resource Development (Phils.), Inc. said in a statement posted on its Web site Friday.
“As we mine through the copper rich portion of the ore body and start getting into the copper-zinc zone as expected, the ability to separate and monetize the zinc will result in additional revenue,” said TVI Pacific President and Chief Executive Clifford M. James.
“This will allow us to further accelerate two key target areas of our growth strategy, which include exploration and development activities at Canatuan and Balabag, and exploration projects at Tamarok [all in Zamboanga del Norte],” Mr. James added.
The miner will spend $2.5-$3 million for the zinc circuits, which are expected to be operational late April next year. Construction began on October 28.
Its copper concentrate production will continue at a rate of approximately 5,000 MT per month while the zinc circuit is designed to produce approximately 1,000 MT per month of zinc concentrate, the miner said.
The Canatuan project is estimated to produce 65.428 million pounds of copper and 5,301 metric tons (MT) of zinc.
Zinc is mainly used as a protective coating for iron and steel and as the main alloy for brass.
"Off-take arrangements for the zinc concentrate are currently being negotiated," the miner said.
http://beta.bworldonline.com/main/content.php?id=1041
The construction, which was started three months ahead of schedule, will enable the miner to sell more mineral resources from its Canatuan copper mine, TVI Resource Development (Phils.), Inc. said in a statement posted on its Web site Friday.
“As we mine through the copper rich portion of the ore body and start getting into the copper-zinc zone as expected, the ability to separate and monetize the zinc will result in additional revenue,” said TVI Pacific President and Chief Executive Clifford M. James.
“This will allow us to further accelerate two key target areas of our growth strategy, which include exploration and development activities at Canatuan and Balabag, and exploration projects at Tamarok [all in Zamboanga del Norte],” Mr. James added.
The miner will spend $2.5-$3 million for the zinc circuits, which are expected to be operational late April next year. Construction began on October 28.
Its copper concentrate production will continue at a rate of approximately 5,000 MT per month while the zinc circuit is designed to produce approximately 1,000 MT per month of zinc concentrate, the miner said.
The Canatuan project is estimated to produce 65.428 million pounds of copper and 5,301 metric tons (MT) of zinc.
Zinc is mainly used as a protective coating for iron and steel and as the main alloy for brass.
"Off-take arrangements for the zinc concentrate are currently being negotiated," the miner said.
http://beta.bworldonline.com/main/content.php?id=1041
Friday, October 23, 2009
Hindustan Zinc profit dips 3% to Rs 935 cr
The company said its net profit in the July-September period stood at Rs 935 crore, compared with Rs 960 crore last year. Sales in the same period grew 2.6% to Rs 1,790 crore.
“The positive impact of higher volume operational efficiencies, lower input cost and rupee depreciation on net profit was more than offset by a sharp decline in the by-product credit realisations,” said Hindustan Zinc in its statement.
Shares of HZL fell 1.6% to Rs 868, in line with the broader market index, which was down 1.2%.
During the second quarter, zinc and lead mined metal production totalled 192,517 tonne, in line with the rated capacity, said the HZL statement. During the same period, zinc and lead refined metal production was 152,226 tonne, an increase of 14%, compared with the previous year.
Sales during the quarter rose due to the sale of 22,359 dry tonne of surplus zinc and 21,000 dry tonne of surplus lead concentrate. Saleable silver production during the second quarter was 30,324 kilograms, an increase of 40% over last year.
On future plans, Hindustan Zinc said work at its 210,000 tonne zinc smelter and the 100,000-tonne lead smelter project site at Rajpura Dariba are “progressing well and are on schedule for completion by mid-2010”. Work at the mining projects at Rampura Agucha, Sindesar Khurd and Kayar are also on schedule for progressive commissioning from mid-2010 onwards, it added.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-company/earnings/Hindustan-Zinc-profit-dips-3-to-Rs-935-cr/articleshow/5150765.cms
“The positive impact of higher volume operational efficiencies, lower input cost and rupee depreciation on net profit was more than offset by a sharp decline in the by-product credit realisations,” said Hindustan Zinc in its statement.
Shares of HZL fell 1.6% to Rs 868, in line with the broader market index, which was down 1.2%.
During the second quarter, zinc and lead mined metal production totalled 192,517 tonne, in line with the rated capacity, said the HZL statement. During the same period, zinc and lead refined metal production was 152,226 tonne, an increase of 14%, compared with the previous year.
Sales during the quarter rose due to the sale of 22,359 dry tonne of surplus zinc and 21,000 dry tonne of surplus lead concentrate. Saleable silver production during the second quarter was 30,324 kilograms, an increase of 40% over last year.
On future plans, Hindustan Zinc said work at its 210,000 tonne zinc smelter and the 100,000-tonne lead smelter project site at Rajpura Dariba are “progressing well and are on schedule for completion by mid-2010”. Work at the mining projects at Rampura Agucha, Sindesar Khurd and Kayar are also on schedule for progressive commissioning from mid-2010 onwards, it added.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-company/earnings/Hindustan-Zinc-profit-dips-3-to-Rs-935-cr/articleshow/5150765.cms
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Zinc remains up in futures trade on global cues
New Delhi, Oct 7 Zinc prices today rose up to 0.50 per cent on the Multi Commodity Exchange as traders enlarged their positions, supported by overnight gains at London Metal Exchange on signs of recovery in global economy amid weakening US currency. Firming trends in global equity markets also influenced the base metal prices.
At the MCX, zinc for delivery in November gained 0.39 per cent at Rs 89.25 per kg, in a turnover of 427 lots. The October contract for metal also gained 0.39 per cent at Rs 89.25 per kg, clocking a turnover of 26 lots. Market analysts said firming trend in copper and other industrial metals on hopes of pick up in demand after signs of economic recovery and weakening US dollar against basket of currencies mainly attributed rise in zinc prices at futures market here. Besides, firming trend in spot markets on the back of good demand from consuming industries also supported the rise, they said. Meanwhile, zinc prices shot up by 2.30 per cent to USD 1,915 per tonne at LME in yesterday&aposs trade.
http://www.indopia.in/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/681753/Business/4/20/4
At the MCX, zinc for delivery in November gained 0.39 per cent at Rs 89.25 per kg, in a turnover of 427 lots. The October contract for metal also gained 0.39 per cent at Rs 89.25 per kg, clocking a turnover of 26 lots. Market analysts said firming trend in copper and other industrial metals on hopes of pick up in demand after signs of economic recovery and weakening US dollar against basket of currencies mainly attributed rise in zinc prices at futures market here. Besides, firming trend in spot markets on the back of good demand from consuming industries also supported the rise, they said. Meanwhile, zinc prices shot up by 2.30 per cent to USD 1,915 per tonne at LME in yesterday&aposs trade.
http://www.indopia.in/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/681753/Business/4/20/4
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Full Metal Announces Zinc-Lead-Silver Exploration
Full Metal Minerals (TSX VENTURE:FMM) is pleased to announce that exploration programs targeting high-grade zinc-lead-silver mineralization are underway at three projects in Alaska and Yukon. Full Metal will continue to advance these key assets in anticipation of an improving base metal market.
FORTYMILE PROPERTY - 100% FMM
Previous exploration and drilling by Full Metal at Fortymile has resulted in the discovery of the LWM deposit, a high grade zinc-lead-silver Carbonate Replacement Style (CRD) system. Multiple other prospective targets have also been identified on the Property.
Field crews recently completed geological mapping, soil and rock chip sampling on additional target areas. Full Metal is targeting CRD style mineralization, copper-gold skarn mineralization and epigenetic gold mineralization. Results are currently pending for this program, with additional follow up work planned for September 2009.
To date at LWM, two subparallel zones of massive carbonate-replacement (CRD) mineralization have been traced over 700 meters of strike length and over 300 meters below surface. The deposit is open for expansion in all directions. Previously announced drill results include:
- LWM07-04: 44.6 meters averaging 15.7% Zn, 5.3% Pb, 76.0 g/t Ag
- LWM07-07: 11.1 meters averaging 26.3% Zn, 11.7 % Pb, 169.8 g/t Ag
- LWM07-09: 6.5 meters averaging 31.6% Zn, 11.3% Pb, 464.2 g/t Ag
- LWM07-19: 5.6 meters averaging 31.8 % Zn, 19.9 % Pb, 346.8 g/t Ag
- LWM08-32: 17.7 meters averaging 14.5% Zn, 11.1% Pb, 217.5 g/t Ag
The LWM discovery, the Fish oxide zinc-silver discovery (See FMM NR 2007 #21), as well as the Oscar, Eva and Drumstick regional targets occur within an extensive trend of CRD-style prospects, the majority of which have never been drill tested.
Full Metal has option(s) to earn 100% leasehold interests within 235,376 acres of lands selected by Doyon Limited, an Alaska Native Regional Corporation (See FMM 2006 NR #9, dated May 23, 2006).
ANGIE-CAT PROPERTY - 100% FMM
The Angie-Cat property is hosted within a 90km long trend of zinc-lead-silver occurrences, located south of Ross River, Yukon. During 2008, Full Metal identified new and historic occurrences of mineralization along this trend.
At the Keats Prospect, in 2008 Full Metal discovered a new occurrence of subcropping boulders of Sedimentary Exhalative Deposit Style (SEDEX) massive sphalerite and galena spanning 1,300 meters of strike length. A total of eleven rock samples were taken at Keats, ranging from 0.1 to 47.2 % Zn, averaging 21.7%; trace to 22.0% Pb, averaging 3.0%; and 0.5 to 100.0 g/t Ag, averaging 18.8 g/t. Additionally, at the Angie Prospect, soil sampling during 2008 by Full Metal identified a 5,000 meter long anomaly (greater than 1000 ppm Zn), including a 1,300 meter long area (greater than 2,000 ppm Zn).
At the southeast end of the trend, soil sampling by Full Metal in 2008 outlined multiple anomalies of zinc, lead and silver at the Nebocat Prospect. A 2,000 meter long multielement soil anomaly (greater than 1000 ppm Zn, greater than 500 ppm Pb, greater than 3 ppm Ag) was identified, centered on a 200 meter long, by 10 meter high outcrop of SEDEX style massive sulphides, with coarse grained pyrite, sphalerite and galena.
Exploration currently underway will focus on expanding the known extent of the surface mineralization and identifying drill targets at the Keats and Nebocat prospects. The program will also explore additional targets along the 90km long trend. Additionally, a soil grid will be completed over the Keats prospect, as well as reconnaissance prospecting and soil sampling. The 2009 program will refine these targets for a 2010 drill program.
NADALEEN PROPERTY - 100% FMM
The Nadaleen Project area comprises six prospects, targeting CRD style deposits hosting high grade silver-lead-zinc mineralization. These occurrences are located within one of the most extensive regions of CRD mineralization identified worldwide.
The most significant results from the 2008 Exploration Program at Nadaleen included high grade mineralization discovered along 3,200 meters of strike length at the DF Prospect. Numerous occurrences of outcropping massive sulphides were identified; 18 surface samples assaying over 65 g/t Ag averaged 298 g/t Ag, 26.9% Pb and 5.4% Zn. Five of these samples averaged over 500 g/t Ag, up to 688 g/t Ag. A total of 46 rock samples were collected at the DF Prospect, averaging 120 g/t Ag, 10.7% Pb and 5.2% Zn. Samples range from to trace values to 688 g/t Ag, 67.2% Pb and 19.4% Zn. Rock samples are mostly chip and grab samples collected through prospecting.
The current field work at Nadaleen will include expanding the known extent of mineralization at the DF prospect through mapping and geological sampling, and by the completion of a soil grid. Other targets will also be. This work will refine drill targets at the DF prospect to be tested in 2010.
Full Metal's 2009 exploration program at the Fortymile, Angie-Cat and Nadaleen projects are being performed under the supervision of Robert McLeod, P.Geo, Vice-President Exploration for Full Metal Minerals, and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Samples are placed in sealed bags and shipped to ALS-Chemex Labs facility in Fairbanks, Alaska and Vancouver, B.C. A sample quality control/quality assurance program is in place. Mr. McLeod prepared and approved the information contained in this release.
Full Metal is a generative exploration company with multiple precious and base metal projects in Alaska and the Yukon. The Company has Joint Venture Agreements with Kinross Gold, Freeport McMoRan, Mosam Capital, Triex Minerals, Altair Ventures, Highbury Projects, and Ashburton Ventures.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Michael Williams, President and Director
Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information, including without limitation statements as to planned expenditures and exploration programs. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include without limitation the completion of planned expenditures, the ability to complete exploration programs on schedule and the success of exploration programs.
FORTYMILE PROPERTY - 100% FMM
Previous exploration and drilling by Full Metal at Fortymile has resulted in the discovery of the LWM deposit, a high grade zinc-lead-silver Carbonate Replacement Style (CRD) system. Multiple other prospective targets have also been identified on the Property.
Field crews recently completed geological mapping, soil and rock chip sampling on additional target areas. Full Metal is targeting CRD style mineralization, copper-gold skarn mineralization and epigenetic gold mineralization. Results are currently pending for this program, with additional follow up work planned for September 2009.
To date at LWM, two subparallel zones of massive carbonate-replacement (CRD) mineralization have been traced over 700 meters of strike length and over 300 meters below surface. The deposit is open for expansion in all directions. Previously announced drill results include:
- LWM07-04: 44.6 meters averaging 15.7% Zn, 5.3% Pb, 76.0 g/t Ag
- LWM07-07: 11.1 meters averaging 26.3% Zn, 11.7 % Pb, 169.8 g/t Ag
- LWM07-09: 6.5 meters averaging 31.6% Zn, 11.3% Pb, 464.2 g/t Ag
- LWM07-19: 5.6 meters averaging 31.8 % Zn, 19.9 % Pb, 346.8 g/t Ag
- LWM08-32: 17.7 meters averaging 14.5% Zn, 11.1% Pb, 217.5 g/t Ag
The LWM discovery, the Fish oxide zinc-silver discovery (See FMM NR 2007 #21), as well as the Oscar, Eva and Drumstick regional targets occur within an extensive trend of CRD-style prospects, the majority of which have never been drill tested.
Full Metal has option(s) to earn 100% leasehold interests within 235,376 acres of lands selected by Doyon Limited, an Alaska Native Regional Corporation (See FMM 2006 NR #9, dated May 23, 2006).
ANGIE-CAT PROPERTY - 100% FMM
The Angie-Cat property is hosted within a 90km long trend of zinc-lead-silver occurrences, located south of Ross River, Yukon. During 2008, Full Metal identified new and historic occurrences of mineralization along this trend.
At the Keats Prospect, in 2008 Full Metal discovered a new occurrence of subcropping boulders of Sedimentary Exhalative Deposit Style (SEDEX) massive sphalerite and galena spanning 1,300 meters of strike length. A total of eleven rock samples were taken at Keats, ranging from 0.1 to 47.2 % Zn, averaging 21.7%; trace to 22.0% Pb, averaging 3.0%; and 0.5 to 100.0 g/t Ag, averaging 18.8 g/t. Additionally, at the Angie Prospect, soil sampling during 2008 by Full Metal identified a 5,000 meter long anomaly (greater than 1000 ppm Zn), including a 1,300 meter long area (greater than 2,000 ppm Zn).
At the southeast end of the trend, soil sampling by Full Metal in 2008 outlined multiple anomalies of zinc, lead and silver at the Nebocat Prospect. A 2,000 meter long multielement soil anomaly (greater than 1000 ppm Zn, greater than 500 ppm Pb, greater than 3 ppm Ag) was identified, centered on a 200 meter long, by 10 meter high outcrop of SEDEX style massive sulphides, with coarse grained pyrite, sphalerite and galena.
Exploration currently underway will focus on expanding the known extent of the surface mineralization and identifying drill targets at the Keats and Nebocat prospects. The program will also explore additional targets along the 90km long trend. Additionally, a soil grid will be completed over the Keats prospect, as well as reconnaissance prospecting and soil sampling. The 2009 program will refine these targets for a 2010 drill program.
NADALEEN PROPERTY - 100% FMM
The Nadaleen Project area comprises six prospects, targeting CRD style deposits hosting high grade silver-lead-zinc mineralization. These occurrences are located within one of the most extensive regions of CRD mineralization identified worldwide.
The most significant results from the 2008 Exploration Program at Nadaleen included high grade mineralization discovered along 3,200 meters of strike length at the DF Prospect. Numerous occurrences of outcropping massive sulphides were identified; 18 surface samples assaying over 65 g/t Ag averaged 298 g/t Ag, 26.9% Pb and 5.4% Zn. Five of these samples averaged over 500 g/t Ag, up to 688 g/t Ag. A total of 46 rock samples were collected at the DF Prospect, averaging 120 g/t Ag, 10.7% Pb and 5.2% Zn. Samples range from to trace values to 688 g/t Ag, 67.2% Pb and 19.4% Zn. Rock samples are mostly chip and grab samples collected through prospecting.
The current field work at Nadaleen will include expanding the known extent of mineralization at the DF prospect through mapping and geological sampling, and by the completion of a soil grid. Other targets will also be. This work will refine drill targets at the DF prospect to be tested in 2010.
Full Metal's 2009 exploration program at the Fortymile, Angie-Cat and Nadaleen projects are being performed under the supervision of Robert McLeod, P.Geo, Vice-President Exploration for Full Metal Minerals, and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Samples are placed in sealed bags and shipped to ALS-Chemex Labs facility in Fairbanks, Alaska and Vancouver, B.C. A sample quality control/quality assurance program is in place. Mr. McLeod prepared and approved the information contained in this release.
Full Metal is a generative exploration company with multiple precious and base metal projects in Alaska and the Yukon. The Company has Joint Venture Agreements with Kinross Gold, Freeport McMoRan, Mosam Capital, Triex Minerals, Altair Ventures, Highbury Projects, and Ashburton Ventures.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Michael Williams, President and Director
Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information, including without limitation statements as to planned expenditures and exploration programs. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include without limitation the completion of planned expenditures, the ability to complete exploration programs on schedule and the success of exploration programs.
The TSX Venture Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
http://pr-usa.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=258358&Itemid=33
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Zinc cobalt plated connectors are available
Zinc cobalt plated connectors meet the requirements of Mil-C-26482 series 1 and replace the use of cadmium plating, over which there is some environmental concern.
Aerco now offers rapid deliveries on zinc cobalt plated versions of D38999 series III and AB05 connectors that meet the requirements of Mil-C-26482 series 1.
The investment in this service has been made to meet the growing number of customers showing concern about the environmental implications of using cadmium plating.
As an assembling distributor of the AB05 range of connectors from AB Connectors, Aerco stocks piece parts and assembles zinc cobalt plated AB05s at an assembly facility set up earlier this year at the company's UK headquarters in Horsham.
Aerco also supplies zinc cobalt plated D38999 series III connectors under a special distributor agreement with Deutsch.
Both types can be supplied within five days at highly competitive prices with no MOQs (minimum order quantities).
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/aeo/aeo124.html
Friday, July 31, 2009
Zinc pressure diecasting machine overhauled
Brunel, the Tamworth-based manufacturer of zinc diecastings, metal pressings and bespoke assemblies has fitted an electronic control panel to its DMZ 50t zinc pressure diecasting machine.
Brunel, the Tamworth-based manufacturer of zinc diecastings, metal pressings and bespoke assemblies has recently completed a full overhaul of its DMZ 50t zinc pressure diecasting machine.
The machine - which is now fully functional - has been rebuilt and fitted with an entirely new purpose-designed electronic control panel system (designed and fitted by Ian Clarke Russel, Engineering).
Mike Smith, MD, said, " I am absolutely delighted with the result.
This has resolved a major headache and has much simplified setting times.
Also we have built in some specific features we required - it's turned a problem machine into one of our best machines".
Brunel are a manufacturer of locks, handles, hinges, punched track and bespoke assemblies mainly for the UK window and door manufacturing industry.
Recently Brunel has widened its market into electrical, vehicle and heating components with noteable success.
Brunel is presently in the process of achieving ISO9000 by Aug07 and manages to remain busy despite worldwide competition.
We put our success down to a lean, no nonsense mentality along with a flexible and fast service.
We aim to be simple, lean, quick and clean in our service.
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/brz/brz101.html
Friday, July 10, 2009
Zinc cobalt plated connectors are availabl
Zinc cobalt plated connectors meet the requirements of Mil-C-26482 series 1 and replace the use of cadmium plating, over which there is some environmental concern.
Aerco now offers rapid deliveries on zinc cobalt plated versions of D38999 series III and AB05 connectors that meet the requirements of Mil-C-26482 series 1.
The investment in this service has been made to meet the growing number of customers showing concern about the environmental implications of using cadmium plating.
As an assembling distributor of the AB05 range of connectors from AB Connectors, Aerco stocks piece parts and assembles zinc cobalt plated AB05s at an assembly facility set up earlier this year at the company's UK headquarters in Horsham.
Aerco also supplies zinc cobalt plated D38999 series III connectors under a special distributor agreement with Deutsch.
Both types can be supplied within five days at highly competitive prices with no MOQs (minimum order quantities).
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/aeo/aeo124.html
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Zinc alloy coatings offer high performance
A bulk production, non embritteling, high performance coating system for small components gives excellent sacrificial corrosion protection and protects against contact corrosion with aluminum alloys.
MacDermid has introduced the MacuGuard LM coating system to offer OEM's, engineers and surface finishers a bulk production, non embrittling, high performance coating system suitable for small components.
Not only does the coating provide excellent sacrificial corrosion protection, it also provides the most advanced coating available for contact corrosion with aluminum alloys.
MacuGuard LM coatings are based on a unique zinc aluminium alloy and offers performance benefits which, said MacDermid, no other coating can deliver.
MacuGuard LM stands for non embrittling high corrosion resistant coatings with excellent electrical connectivity, predictable friction, zero head and thread fill and EoLVD compliance.
The ability to successfully process complex geometries, including fastener sizes below M6, makes MacuGuard LM the perfect high performance coatings.
To meet the market requirements, two coatings have been developed.
* The MacuGuard LM mechanical plating processes incorporates a simple additive system, which is capable of producing MacuGuard LM 90, a single layer alloy deposit.
* MacuGuard LM Duplex, a two layered deposit.
The MacuGuard LM 90 finish is based on a 'true' zinc-aluminium alloy which contains 8 - 11% aluminium and is particularly suitable in reducing galvanic induced corrosion between steel fasteners and aluminium components, said MacDermid to manufacturingtalk.com.
In various corrosion investigations according DIN, ASTM and OEM specifications, this finish proved to give the highest corrosion performance.
The MacuGuard LM Duplex finish is based on a two layered deposit based on a zinc layer and a second zinc aluminium alloy layer.
In various corrosion investigations according DIN, ASTM and OEM specifications, this finish proved to give highest corrosion performance and very good prevention of galvanic corrosion in contact with aluminium.
MacuGuard LM Duplex delivers performance at the competitive costs and the coating is ideal to replace high performance finishes like dip spin coatings.
* Hydrogen embrittlement avoidance - because MacuGuard LM is a non electrolytic process, it will not induce any hydrogen embrittlement in hardened, high tensile or spring steels.
Coating components may be used within a shot time of processing without fear of embrittlement failure.
No subsequent heating or de-embrittlement procedures are required before use.
* Energy efficiency - the coating system is operated at room temperature, without the need for curing, baking or any thermo setting process.
This means MacuGuard LM is the most energy efficient process available for high performance zinc based coatings.
* Chrome and solvent free technology - the process does not use or contain any hexavalent chromium compounds.
It conforms to all chrome free tests required of the automotive OEM's.
It is fully compliant with EoLVD, WEEE and RoHSO legislation.
MacuGuard LM is a solvent free process therefore requires no special extraction, venting or fume scrubbing systems.
It is not regulated for air emissions and dose not liberate any VOC's MacuGuard LM is a novel mechanically deposited true alloy coating.
The 100% metal film provides exceptional abrasion resistance as well as other performance characteristics.
As with most zinc based pure metallic coatings, it offers excellent sacrificial corrosion protection * Ductility - the coating is ductile and can be moderately deformed, bent or swaged without significant loss of performance.
Top coats can be easily applied to provide a further variety of surface enhancing properties like insulation, color, controlled torque-tension and low coefficient of friction.
The coating also readily accepts thread 'patching' of all types.
to closely match the electro potential of the most commonly used aluminum alloys.
In contact with Aluminum, MacuGuard LM offers some of the best corrosion and cyclic corrosion testing of any coating available today.
This unique feature is the result of an alloy specifically engineered to provide contact corrosion with light metals.
Features are as follows.
* Free form hydrogen embrittlement.
* Predictable/definable torque.
* Excellent corrosion performance proven according several test specifications.
* Zero thread or head fill.
* Sacrificial protection.
* Aluminium compatibility.
* Solvent free.
* ELV-, WEEE- and RoHS-compliant.
* No oven cure required.
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/mnx/mnx110.html
AVX announces zinc oxide varistors
AVX has developed a zinc oxide-based varistor series that exhibits a low leakage current of 2uA maximum.
Designated the Ultraguard Series, the multilayer ceramic varistors feature non-linear, bi-directional voltage-current characteristics, similar to back-to-back zener diodes, and an EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) capacitor in parallel.
The Ultraguard varistor series offers many electrical advantages over zener diodes, including better repetitive strike capability, higher inrush current capability, shorter turn-on time and inherent EMI/RFI attenuation.
The varistors are significantly smaller, saving board space.
The Ultraguard Series comes in discrete chips available in 0402, 0603 and 0805 sizes, two-element packages in 0405 and 0508 sizes, and four-element 0612 packages.
Low- and high-capacitance versions are offered, ranging from 40 to 3,000 pF.
The varistor series is ideal for transient protection applications where power consumption is a primary concern.
These include high clock speed ICs, battery-operated devices, backlit displays, medical and instrumentation applications, low-voltage power conversion circuits and power supervisory chip sets.
Further applications are being found in optics, such as laser diodes, laser diode drivers, and serialiser and deserialiser devices.
http://www.electronicstalk.com/news/avx/avx188.html
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Chelyabinsk Zinc says controlling stake to be sold
Chelyabinsk Zinc (CZP), Russia's largest producer of the metal, said on Thursday it has obtained information from unnamed public sources that it will be sold to a consortium led by two copper miners.
The statement did not contain any information on the sale price.
'The controlling shareholders of NF Holdings B.V., which owns a controlling interest in CZP, have reached an understanding to sell 100 percent of NF Holdings BV,' the company said in a statement.
It added that Ural Mining and Metallurgical Co (UMMC) and Russian Copper Co (RMC) are part of the consortium.
The annoucement follows a report by Reuters on Wednesday that a 58 percent stake in the company would be acquired by the copper companies.
CZP did not confirm the size of the stake that the consortium will acquire.
The company, which produces 64 percent of Russia's zinc, posted a net loss of $105 million in 2008 as prices collapsed.
It has cut production sharply in response to weak demand, and in December said 2009 output would be between 100,000 to 110,000 tonnes of zinc, down from 150,000 tonnes in 2008.
CZP said the transaction will not be completed until it receives applicable governmental approvals.
It did not say when it expects to receive these approvals.
(Reporting by Alfred Kueppers; Editing by Greg Mahlich) Keywords: CHELYABINSK ZINC/
(alfred.kueppers@thomsonreuters.com; Tel +7 495 775 1242; Reuters Messaging: alfred.kueppers@thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net)
COPYRIGHT
Copyright Thomson Reuters 2009. All rights reserved.
The copying, republication or redistribution of Reuters News Content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Thomson Reuters.
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/afx/2009/06/04/afx6502804.html
Saturday, May 23, 2009
EPA public meeting on Eagle Zinc smelter site cleanup
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency plans a public meeting on Wednesday to explain a proposed interim cleanup plan for the former Eagle Zinc smelter. The agency proposes a $1.9 million plan to tear down buildings and other structures on the 132-acre site, operated as a smelter from 1912-2003. Debris from the demolition would then be covered with a foot of soil and maintained until the agency undertakes other additional cleanup measures. The site was added to the federal Superfund list of hazardous-waste sites in 2007. The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Hillsboro High School, 522 East Tremont Street. Hillsboro is about 50 miles northeast of St. Louis. Comments will be accepted at the meeting or via the Internet at www.epa.gov/region5/publiccomment through June 18.
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/stlouiscitycounty/story/739D9E6DD91E7131862575BF0011FC6F?OpenDocument
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/stlouiscitycounty/story/739D9E6DD91E7131862575BF0011FC6F?OpenDocument
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Zinc makes sustainability child's play
Case study from VM Zinc (Umicore) about Falmouth School illustrates the diverse use of zinc.
Falmouth School's striking new 'saw-tooth' shaped Design and Technology Block is a perfect example of the design scope that zinc provides.
VM Zinc standing seam roofing and cladding systems for Falmouth School
Its increasing popularity for diverse projects owes much to the unique, lasting, pre-weathered colours in which VM Zinc manufactures standing seam roofing and cladding systems.
David Pierce of Architects Urban Salon explained "We wanted the Falmouth design to appear as a series of folded planes, with walls and roof clad in the same material".
"It was crucial that the product we specified worked well on both surfaces, and using zinc meant that we didn't need to compromise on the design".
http://www.buildingtalk.com/news/umi/umi117.html
Saturday, May 2, 2009
ISRI-Slow recovery means gradual zinc, lead price gains
LAS VEGAS, April 30 (Reuters) - Zinc and lead prices will remain low through 2009 as the global economy contracts, but their average prices should rise gradually heading into 2010 as demand picks up amid modest economic improvement, a senior industry analyst said.
Addressing participants at this year's Institute for Scrap Recycling Industries' (ISRI) convention, Robin Bhar, senior metals analyst at Calyon Credit Agricole in London, shared his preliminary outlook for economic and metal price turnaround.
Bhar's early forecasts show sizeable contractions for the U.S., Japan, Europe, and Latin American economies this year, along with much slower growth for developing countries.
"Countries that were growing very quickly will not be immune to the global slowdown. Because they are export oriented, China, Japan and Germany will have problems," he said, predicting a 1.0 percent contraction in world GDP.
Calyon sees 2010 as a year of recovery and a return to growth, though at rates below previous recessions, as debt that now saddles many countries carrying out huge fiscal stimulus plans will have to be settled. The trend of paying down debt will extend to individuals and businesses as well.
"Because of that, unlike in previous recessions, recovery will take much longer than we've seen in the past," Bhar said.
But massive injections of liquidity and interest rates close to zero in many countries will help stabilize the economy and encourage recovery going forward.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/motoringAutoNews/idUKN3014412820090501
Friday, April 24, 2009
Your Place: Copper, zinc strips can avert algae stains on roof
Question: Last year, you wrote about what to do about black marks on roofs. You said it was algae that built up from the product used in the shingles, and you gave a remedy for cleaning it off the shingles.
Well, I cut your article out for a spring project and, yep, you guessed it, now that spring is here, I cannot find the article. I wonder if you can tell me again how I can remove the unsightly black marks from my roof easily.
Answer: Fiberglass asphalt shingles these days have a limestone filler instead of the traditional rag filler, and the limestone promotes the growth of algae that shows up in horrible streaks on roof areas that don't get much sun. Have your roofer nail copper or zinc strips on the peaks above these areas, so rain running over the strips will kill the algae. Or look into shingles containing copper to solve that problem.
Whatever you do, don't try cleaning the black stains, or mildew, for that matter, with water and bleach. It will reduce the life of asphalt shingles.
Q: The dinosaur in my basement, which so far has heated my house without major problems, is due for replacement.
My dilemma is: oil or gas?
My small, three-story rowhouse is heated by oil. I have no complaints with the companies that provide the fuel oil and the annual clean-out and service contract.
I suppose the thing that gives me pause about staying with oil heat is the crazy spiking of prices over the last year.
The estimates I've gotten so far for installation of an oil vs. a gas system have been about a wash. So for the long haul, which type of system is likely to be most predictable, operating costwise? (Or am I delusional to think either system will ever again be predictable?)
I'd like to hear the opinion of someone who has nothing to gain from my decision: oil or gas?
A: I've had both oil heat and gas heat, and prefer gas because it seems to be cleaner and more efficient than fuel oil. I suppose my view is colored a bit by the memories of my late-October cleaning of my monster in the basement several years back. On the other hand, I do have a gas condensing furnace - check the Internet for manufacturers' explanations. I've had only two problems with it in the last nine years, and both were the result of improper installation by the original contractor 10 years ago and a previous owner. Frankly, the cost of those repairs was well worth it, considering that I ended up with a reliable servicer.
I don't know anyone who has ever succeeded playing the gas vs. oil price game. I think the key to your decision is the efficiency of the furnace you buy and the warranty and service provided by the installer and the manufacturer, and not trying to second-guess OPEC.
Q: We live on the ground floor of our house and use the upstairs bedrooms and bath only when we have overnight guests a few times a year. Does it make sense to close off those rooms when they aren't in use? If so, should I seal off the return vents as well as the supply vents?
Also, in a recent column you mentioned that adding insulation might be a cause of moisture problems. I'm considering upgrading my attic insulation from R-30 to R-49 by having insulation blown in. Is there any way to determine in advance if this might cause moisture problems? Are there particular steps I can take in advance to avert moisture problems?
A: I'd close the supply vents for sure, but I'm not all that sure about the returns. You might want to give the furnace servicer provider a call to determine whether doing so will affect the efficiency of the unit.
As far as moisture and upgraded insulation are concerned, I'd just keep an eye on things. If you have bathrooms, the dryer, the cooktop, and other sources of indoor moisture properly vented, you shouldn't have a problem.
How do you determine if you have moisture problems in your attic? Moisture will manifest itself as darkened stains on wood surfaces, typically starting at the joints. Damage to insulation is often difficult to identify without feeling the material for moisture. You should also look for mildew or mold that can accumulate on some insulation materials and attic wood and wallboard surfaces.
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/home_design/20090424_Your_Place__Copper__zinc_strips_can_avert_algae_stains_on_roof.html
Friday, April 17, 2009
Rolling mill zinc oxide dusts recycled
Using an innovative procedure, zinc oxide is recycled from steel works dust produced by rolling mills, with GE Fanuc's CIMPLICITY software used to monitor the recycling process. P
Using an innovative procedure, zinc oxide is recycled from steel works dust produced by rolling mills, with GE Fanuc's CIMPLICITY software used to monitor the recycling process, says Chris Milburn, PLC Sales Manager, GE Fanuc Automation (UK) .
The company B U S is one of the leading European suppliers in the field of reprocessing and recycling recoverable materials from industrial processes.
In Freiberg, Saxony, B U S runs an oxide leaching plant.
Since November 2000, a new SDHL procedure is being used to recycle zinc oxide from steel works dust produced in rolling mills.
This procedure was awarded the innovation prize of the Free State of Saxony.
Up to 100,000 tons of steel works dust can be recycled each year.
The new procedure reduces the energy requirement to recover metals such as iron, zinc and lead by more than 40%, while at the same time increasing the plant's throughput by 30%.
The new SDHL procedure is very sophisticated, requiring the highest precision in process parameters.
First, the dust is heated to 1,100 degC in a furnace.
During this step, the zinc is dispersed as powder.
This powder still contains chlorine which needs to be washed out in subsequent stages of the process.
Then, common salt and zinc oxide is obtained by adding soda.
Finally, the zinc oxide is removed from the solution using filter presses and can then be reused for the metallurgical process in the rolling mill.
In order to work properly, this recycling procedure requires a very accurate control of temperature, mixing proportion, flow rate and water conductivity.
The conception, planning, installation and commissioning of the entire control technology was the responsibility of system integrator 'K + L Elektrotechnik' who took six months to realise the project.
The control concept includes a PLC with decentralised peripherals, approximately 300 digital and 50 analog I/Os, Profibus DP-Asi transducers as well as a Display Station 2020 industrial PC running GE Fanuc's monitoring and control software CIMPLICITY HMI Plant Edition.
Communication is carried out via Profibus-DP as well as via an Asi bus between peripherals.
Using the Asi bus enabled a reduction in control costs of 25%.
Altogether, the CIMPLICITY HMI monitoring and control software processes data from around 700 data points.
The software is installed on an industrial PC running under Windows NT.
The CIMPLICITY HMI software monitors the temperature, filling level, flow rate, density and conductivity parameters.
When the monitoring and control software had to be selected, the following features were considered to be CIMPLICITY's strong points: * The workbench and the 'drag and drop' functionality enable a quick configuration of the application.
* Integration with third-party controllers is very easy.
I/Os are accessed directly, there is no need to develop separate modules or I/O connections to access the PLC memory.
* The system is very easy to operate.
When asked about his experience with CIMPLICITY, Jan Kermer, Managing Director at K+ L, replied, "As system integrators, we appreciate the easy configuration of the CIMPLICITY software.
Also, with over 100 drivers, integration of third-party products into a control concept is no problem at all." The plant was put into service over a year ago and has been running smoothly since then.
B U S is now thinking about installing a second furnace in the plant which, of course, would also be monitored by CIMPLICITY HMI.
GE Fanuc Automation is a leading global supplier of automation controls.
These products and services include a wide range of CNCs, motion control products, micro to high-end PLCs, monitoring and control software products, and CO2 and YAG lasers.
GE Fanuc Automation is a joint venture between GE and FANUC and the company's European headquarters are at GE Fanuc Automation Europe in Luxembourg.
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/geu/geu128.html
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Reduced China buys sink zinc exports
Weaker buying by Chinese importers and the reduced availability of recovered zinc from electric furnace steelmakers trimmed U.S. exports of the galvanizing metal by nearly 24 percent in January.
Exports of the galvanizing scrap metal slumped to 1,985 short tons from 2,610 tons in December and less than half the 4,026 tons sent overseas in January last year, according to the latest figures from the...
http://www.amm.com/login/denied_empty/2009%2D04%2D07%5F%5F16%2D06%2D25.html/Reduced+China+buys+sink+zinc+exports
Friday, April 3, 2009
Zinc 'Grand Designs' honours for sustainability
Though less well known for standing seam systems than aluminium, zinc is now receiving widespread public attention as a consequence of projects featured in, for example, the 2007 Grand Designs Awards.
Growth in specification of zinc as a building product in the UK owes much to its lasting appearance, malleability and corrosion resistance.
It blends well with wood, stone and concrete and provides a contrast with the plethora of glazing finishes available.
As a roof covering it can be formed into the most complex shapes and used at pitches as low as 3deg.
Though less well known for standing seam systems than aluminium, zinc is now receiving widespread public attention as a consequence of projects featured in, for example, the 2007 Grand Designs Awards.
Bere Architects' 'Focus House' in the Finsbury Park area won 'Best Eco House', having used VM Zinc Plus in a Quartz-zinc finish with a concealed zinc rainwater system.
The system uses a patented pre-weathering process to produce a patinated appearance and texture which resembles aged material.
The finish requires no surface treatment or painting and is resistant to surface marking during installation.
Osborne Homes' Demonstration House built recently at the BRE, was designed as an entry in the 'GBP60K house' competition to demonstrate low cost, affordable, sustainable construction incorporating the latest thinking in waste reduction and energy efficiency.
Zinc was used for roofing, guttering and cladding in a structure that was built in a day and a half.
By complete contrast, for his design of Quarry House in Sevenoaks, Architect Steve Marshall of Munkenbeck and Marshall specified a combination of larch for the structural timber and zinc for the dramatic curved roof.
The silver grey larch will blend with the zinc's gradual, natural patination.
Like the timber, specified from an FSC accredited source, the zinc was chosen for its sustainability.
30% of all zinc manufactured now uses recycled material while in Western Europe, 90% of rolled zinc recovered from roofs and rainwater systems (around 100,000 tonnes each year) is now reclaimed.
There is already evidence of the knock-on effect in the UK; for the restoration of Brighton railway station the original zinc supplied by VM Zinc a century ago was removed, recycled and new material from the same manufacturer applied.
Recycling may owe much to the trend towards care of natural resources, but a high residual value of 60% to 75% of the current new material cost is, undeniably, drawing attention to its viability.
Energy used to manufacture, whether from ore or reclaimed material, is the lowest of the non-ferrous metals - less than half that of copper, and a quarter that of aluminium.
Even against the cost of manufacturing using recycled aluminium, zinc's energy consumption is around a third lower.
New technology affecting zinc manufacture now enables production of materials in a variety of finishes and colours.
In addition to Quartz-zinc, Anthra-zinc, a deeper charcoal colour, is produced for more contemporary architectural styling, while the newly launched Pigmento range offers the naturally grained texture of pre-weathered Quartz-zinc in blue, red and green.
Zinc's use in urban environments began to increase once risk of smog and acid rain-induced sulphur dioxide corrosion was eliminated following fossil fuel eradication.
This now means that the product's quoted design life invariably exceeds 50 years.
As an alternative to cast iron it is also significantly lighter and less expensive - a 2-metre length of 125mm wide half-round zinc gutter weighs only 2.75 kg compared to cast iron at over 8kg.
Although still relatively new as a guttering material in the UK, zinc is beginning to fill a void between inexpensive but visually uninspiring PVCu and more traditional but expensive cast iron.
Even in coastal environments, corrosion resistance is higher than that of aluminium and, unlike cast iron, it is not susceptible to impact cracking.
At 150N/mm2, tensile strength is high too, and resistance to surface spread of flame is to Class 0 / Class 1.
As an environmentally safe option to lead, zinc is now finding increasing use as an alternative to lead on heritage projects.
A 62-section cupola zinc roof and central finial, specified by Dannatt Johnson for the recently refurbished mid-19th century Clapham bandstand is a good example of a roof involving intricate detail.
Thought to be the biggest bandstand of its type remaining in the UK, it provides a vivid contrast to contemporary designs with standing seam roofs such as the Coptic Orthodox Church in Stevenage.
Maintaining an ecological equilibrium is essential for any naturally occurring material.
Analysis of zinc concentrations in the Rhine, however, confirms that the balance is still well within acceptance tolerances.
Emissions resulting from zinc manufacturing continue to reduce (down 43% between 1983 and 1995), while the diversity of uses for reclaimed product, which include galvanizing, zinc oxide and brass production, suggests that natural extraction will remain within manageable proportions.
With zinc use in the UK likely to be stimulated by the growing market for reclaimed and natural building materials, its future looks healthy in every respect.
http://www.buildingtalk.com/news/umi/umi105.html
Growth in specification of zinc as a building product in the UK owes much to its lasting appearance, malleability and corrosion resistance.
It blends well with wood, stone and concrete and provides a contrast with the plethora of glazing finishes available.
As a roof covering it can be formed into the most complex shapes and used at pitches as low as 3deg.
Though less well known for standing seam systems than aluminium, zinc is now receiving widespread public attention as a consequence of projects featured in, for example, the 2007 Grand Designs Awards.
Bere Architects' 'Focus House' in the Finsbury Park area won 'Best Eco House', having used VM Zinc Plus in a Quartz-zinc finish with a concealed zinc rainwater system.
The system uses a patented pre-weathering process to produce a patinated appearance and texture which resembles aged material.
The finish requires no surface treatment or painting and is resistant to surface marking during installation.
Osborne Homes' Demonstration House built recently at the BRE, was designed as an entry in the 'GBP60K house' competition to demonstrate low cost, affordable, sustainable construction incorporating the latest thinking in waste reduction and energy efficiency.
Zinc was used for roofing, guttering and cladding in a structure that was built in a day and a half.
By complete contrast, for his design of Quarry House in Sevenoaks, Architect Steve Marshall of Munkenbeck and Marshall specified a combination of larch for the structural timber and zinc for the dramatic curved roof.
The silver grey larch will blend with the zinc's gradual, natural patination.
Like the timber, specified from an FSC accredited source, the zinc was chosen for its sustainability.
30% of all zinc manufactured now uses recycled material while in Western Europe, 90% of rolled zinc recovered from roofs and rainwater systems (around 100,000 tonnes each year) is now reclaimed.
There is already evidence of the knock-on effect in the UK; for the restoration of Brighton railway station the original zinc supplied by VM Zinc a century ago was removed, recycled and new material from the same manufacturer applied.
Recycling may owe much to the trend towards care of natural resources, but a high residual value of 60% to 75% of the current new material cost is, undeniably, drawing attention to its viability.
Energy used to manufacture, whether from ore or reclaimed material, is the lowest of the non-ferrous metals - less than half that of copper, and a quarter that of aluminium.
Even against the cost of manufacturing using recycled aluminium, zinc's energy consumption is around a third lower.
New technology affecting zinc manufacture now enables production of materials in a variety of finishes and colours.
In addition to Quartz-zinc, Anthra-zinc, a deeper charcoal colour, is produced for more contemporary architectural styling, while the newly launched Pigmento range offers the naturally grained texture of pre-weathered Quartz-zinc in blue, red and green.
Zinc's use in urban environments began to increase once risk of smog and acid rain-induced sulphur dioxide corrosion was eliminated following fossil fuel eradication.
This now means that the product's quoted design life invariably exceeds 50 years.
As an alternative to cast iron it is also significantly lighter and less expensive - a 2-metre length of 125mm wide half-round zinc gutter weighs only 2.75 kg compared to cast iron at over 8kg.
Although still relatively new as a guttering material in the UK, zinc is beginning to fill a void between inexpensive but visually uninspiring PVCu and more traditional but expensive cast iron.
Even in coastal environments, corrosion resistance is higher than that of aluminium and, unlike cast iron, it is not susceptible to impact cracking.
At 150N/mm2, tensile strength is high too, and resistance to surface spread of flame is to Class 0 / Class 1.
As an environmentally safe option to lead, zinc is now finding increasing use as an alternative to lead on heritage projects.
A 62-section cupola zinc roof and central finial, specified by Dannatt Johnson for the recently refurbished mid-19th century Clapham bandstand is a good example of a roof involving intricate detail.
Thought to be the biggest bandstand of its type remaining in the UK, it provides a vivid contrast to contemporary designs with standing seam roofs such as the Coptic Orthodox Church in Stevenage.
Maintaining an ecological equilibrium is essential for any naturally occurring material.
Analysis of zinc concentrations in the Rhine, however, confirms that the balance is still well within acceptance tolerances.
Emissions resulting from zinc manufacturing continue to reduce (down 43% between 1983 and 1995), while the diversity of uses for reclaimed product, which include galvanizing, zinc oxide and brass production, suggests that natural extraction will remain within manageable proportions.
With zinc use in the UK likely to be stimulated by the growing market for reclaimed and natural building materials, its future looks healthy in every respect.
http://www.buildingtalk.com/news/umi/umi105.html
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Zinc analysis in waste water
The latest addition to the Alert Colorimeter range from Applikon Analytical is the new zinc analyser
The latest addition to the Alert Colorimeter range from Applikon Analytical is the new zinc analyser.
Designed for reliability and minimal operator attendance the Alert analyser is perfect for waste water applications.
The analyser utilises the unique Differential Absorbance Colorimetry (DAC) methodology to prevent turbidity and sample colour interfering with the analysis result.
The analysis is capable of determining zinc from approximately 0.01 mg/l to 2 mg/l.
Automatic calibration checks are carried out either on a periodic basis or as a conditional action to validate out of range results.
The Alert Colorimeter features extensive I/O capabilities such as high result relays, remote start/stop and analogue outputs.
Additional remote interrogation via GSM modem is also available for isolated installations.
The running costs are kept to a minimum by low reagent use, typically less than 1ml of buffer and 0.5ml of colour reagent per analysis, and minimal consumables.
Attendance for planned maintenance is usually carried out on an annual basis.
Applikon Analytical is part of the Metrohm group of companies and represented exclusively by Metrohm UK.
In addition to the sale of analysers Metrohm UK provide a full customer service including spares, training and service contracts.
http://www.processingtalk.com/news/met/met306.html
The latest addition to the Alert Colorimeter range from Applikon Analytical is the new zinc analyser.
Designed for reliability and minimal operator attendance the Alert analyser is perfect for waste water applications.
The analyser utilises the unique Differential Absorbance Colorimetry (DAC) methodology to prevent turbidity and sample colour interfering with the analysis result.
The analysis is capable of determining zinc from approximately 0.01 mg/l to 2 mg/l.
Automatic calibration checks are carried out either on a periodic basis or as a conditional action to validate out of range results.
The Alert Colorimeter features extensive I/O capabilities such as high result relays, remote start/stop and analogue outputs.
Additional remote interrogation via GSM modem is also available for isolated installations.
The running costs are kept to a minimum by low reagent use, typically less than 1ml of buffer and 0.5ml of colour reagent per analysis, and minimal consumables.
Attendance for planned maintenance is usually carried out on an annual basis.
Applikon Analytical is part of the Metrohm group of companies and represented exclusively by Metrohm UK.
In addition to the sale of analysers Metrohm UK provide a full customer service including spares, training and service contracts.
http://www.processingtalk.com/news/met/met306.html
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Zinc 'Grand Designs' honours for sustainability
Though less well known for standing seam systems than aluminium, zinc is now receiving widespread public attention as a consequence of projects featured in, for example, the 2007 Grand Designs Awards.
Growth in specification of zinc as a building product in the UK owes much to its lasting appearance, malleability and corrosion resistance.
It blends well with wood, stone and concrete and provides a contrast with the plethora of glazing finishes available.
As a roof covering it can be formed into the most complex shapes and used at pitches as low as 3deg.
Though less well known for standing seam systems than aluminium, zinc is now receiving widespread public attention as a consequence of projects featured in, for example, the 2007 Grand Designs Awards.
Bere Architects' 'Focus House' in the Finsbury Park area won 'Best Eco House', having used VM Zinc Plus in a Quartz-zinc finish with a concealed zinc rainwater system.
The system uses a patented pre-weathering process to produce a patinated appearance and texture which resembles aged material.
The finish requires no surface treatment or painting and is resistant to surface marking during installation.
Osborne Homes' Demonstration House built recently at the BRE, was designed as an entry in the 'GBP60K house' competition to demonstrate low cost, affordable, sustainable construction incorporating the latest thinking in waste reduction and energy efficiency.
Zinc was used for roofing, guttering and cladding in a structure that was built in a day and a half.
By complete contrast, for his design of Quarry House in Sevenoaks, Architect Steve Marshall of Munkenbeck and Marshall specified a combination of larch for the structural timber and zinc for the dramatic curved roof.
The silver grey larch will blend with the zinc's gradual, natural patination.
Like the timber, specified from an FSC accredited source, the zinc was chosen for its sustainability.
30% of all zinc manufactured now uses recycled material while in Western Europe, 90% of rolled zinc recovered from roofs and rainwater systems (around 100,000 tonnes each year) is now reclaimed.
There is already evidence of the knock-on effect in the UK; for the restoration of Brighton railway station the original zinc supplied by VM Zinc a century ago was removed, recycled and new material from the same manufacturer applied.
Recycling may owe much to the trend towards care of natural resources, but a high residual value of 60% to 75% of the current new material cost is, undeniably, drawing attention to its viability.
Energy used to manufacture, whether from ore or reclaimed material, is the lowest of the non-ferrous metals - less than half that of copper, and a quarter that of aluminium.
Even against the cost of manufacturing using recycled aluminium, zinc's energy consumption is around a third lower.
New technology affecting zinc manufacture now enables production of materials in a variety of finishes and colours.
In addition to Quartz-zinc, Anthra-zinc, a deeper charcoal colour, is produced for more contemporary architectural styling, while the newly launched Pigmento range offers the naturally grained texture of pre-weathered Quartz-zinc in blue, red and green.
Zinc's use in urban environments began to increase once risk of smog and acid rain-induced sulphur dioxide corrosion was eliminated following fossil fuel eradication.
This now means that the product's quoted design life invariably exceeds 50 years.
As an alternative to cast iron it is also significantly lighter and less expensive - a 2-metre length of 125mm wide half-round zinc gutter weighs only 2.75 kg compared to cast iron at over 8kg.
Although still relatively new as a guttering material in the UK, zinc is beginning to fill a void between inexpensive but visually uninspiring PVCu and more traditional but expensive cast iron.
Even in coastal environments, corrosion resistance is higher than that of aluminium and, unlike cast iron, it is not susceptible to impact cracking.
At 150N/mm2, tensile strength is high too, and resistance to surface spread of flame is to Class 0 / Class 1.
As an environmentally safe option to lead, zinc is now finding increasing use as an alternative to lead on heritage projects.
A 62-section cupola zinc roof and central finial, specified by Dannatt Johnson for the recently refurbished mid-19th century Clapham bandstand is a good example of a roof involving intricate detail.
Thought to be the biggest bandstand of its type remaining in the UK, it provides a vivid contrast to contemporary designs with standing seam roofs such as the Coptic Orthodox Church in Stevenage.
Maintaining an ecological equilibrium is essential for any naturally occurring material.
Analysis of zinc concentrations in the Rhine, however, confirms that the balance is still well within acceptance tolerances.
Emissions resulting from zinc manufacturing continue to reduce (down 43% between 1983 and 1995), while the diversity of uses for reclaimed product, which include galvanizing, zinc oxide and brass production, suggests that natural extraction will remain within manageable proportions.
With zinc use in the UK likely to be stimulated by the growing market for reclaimed and natural building materials, its future looks healthy in every respect.
http://www.buildingtalk.com/news/umi/umi105.html
Growth in specification of zinc as a building product in the UK owes much to its lasting appearance, malleability and corrosion resistance.
It blends well with wood, stone and concrete and provides a contrast with the plethora of glazing finishes available.
As a roof covering it can be formed into the most complex shapes and used at pitches as low as 3deg.
Though less well known for standing seam systems than aluminium, zinc is now receiving widespread public attention as a consequence of projects featured in, for example, the 2007 Grand Designs Awards.
Bere Architects' 'Focus House' in the Finsbury Park area won 'Best Eco House', having used VM Zinc Plus in a Quartz-zinc finish with a concealed zinc rainwater system.
The system uses a patented pre-weathering process to produce a patinated appearance and texture which resembles aged material.
The finish requires no surface treatment or painting and is resistant to surface marking during installation.
Osborne Homes' Demonstration House built recently at the BRE, was designed as an entry in the 'GBP60K house' competition to demonstrate low cost, affordable, sustainable construction incorporating the latest thinking in waste reduction and energy efficiency.
Zinc was used for roofing, guttering and cladding in a structure that was built in a day and a half.
By complete contrast, for his design of Quarry House in Sevenoaks, Architect Steve Marshall of Munkenbeck and Marshall specified a combination of larch for the structural timber and zinc for the dramatic curved roof.
The silver grey larch will blend with the zinc's gradual, natural patination.
Like the timber, specified from an FSC accredited source, the zinc was chosen for its sustainability.
30% of all zinc manufactured now uses recycled material while in Western Europe, 90% of rolled zinc recovered from roofs and rainwater systems (around 100,000 tonnes each year) is now reclaimed.
There is already evidence of the knock-on effect in the UK; for the restoration of Brighton railway station the original zinc supplied by VM Zinc a century ago was removed, recycled and new material from the same manufacturer applied.
Recycling may owe much to the trend towards care of natural resources, but a high residual value of 60% to 75% of the current new material cost is, undeniably, drawing attention to its viability.
Energy used to manufacture, whether from ore or reclaimed material, is the lowest of the non-ferrous metals - less than half that of copper, and a quarter that of aluminium.
Even against the cost of manufacturing using recycled aluminium, zinc's energy consumption is around a third lower.
New technology affecting zinc manufacture now enables production of materials in a variety of finishes and colours.
In addition to Quartz-zinc, Anthra-zinc, a deeper charcoal colour, is produced for more contemporary architectural styling, while the newly launched Pigmento range offers the naturally grained texture of pre-weathered Quartz-zinc in blue, red and green.
Zinc's use in urban environments began to increase once risk of smog and acid rain-induced sulphur dioxide corrosion was eliminated following fossil fuel eradication.
This now means that the product's quoted design life invariably exceeds 50 years.
As an alternative to cast iron it is also significantly lighter and less expensive - a 2-metre length of 125mm wide half-round zinc gutter weighs only 2.75 kg compared to cast iron at over 8kg.
Although still relatively new as a guttering material in the UK, zinc is beginning to fill a void between inexpensive but visually uninspiring PVCu and more traditional but expensive cast iron.
Even in coastal environments, corrosion resistance is higher than that of aluminium and, unlike cast iron, it is not susceptible to impact cracking.
At 150N/mm2, tensile strength is high too, and resistance to surface spread of flame is to Class 0 / Class 1.
As an environmentally safe option to lead, zinc is now finding increasing use as an alternative to lead on heritage projects.
A 62-section cupola zinc roof and central finial, specified by Dannatt Johnson for the recently refurbished mid-19th century Clapham bandstand is a good example of a roof involving intricate detail.
Thought to be the biggest bandstand of its type remaining in the UK, it provides a vivid contrast to contemporary designs with standing seam roofs such as the Coptic Orthodox Church in Stevenage.
Maintaining an ecological equilibrium is essential for any naturally occurring material.
Analysis of zinc concentrations in the Rhine, however, confirms that the balance is still well within acceptance tolerances.
Emissions resulting from zinc manufacturing continue to reduce (down 43% between 1983 and 1995), while the diversity of uses for reclaimed product, which include galvanizing, zinc oxide and brass production, suggests that natural extraction will remain within manageable proportions.
With zinc use in the UK likely to be stimulated by the growing market for reclaimed and natural building materials, its future looks healthy in every respect.
http://www.buildingtalk.com/news/umi/umi105.html
Friday, February 27, 2009
OZ Minerals CEO expects more zinc cuts in Europe
SYDNEY, Feb 27 (Reuters) - European zinc producers are preparing to make further production cuts to combat a growing supply glut and weak prices, world No. 2 producer OZ Minerals Ltd (OZL.AX) said on Friday.
Output has already been slashed by 10 percent, or 1 million tonnes worldwide -- more than a quarter coming from European producers so far -- in response to the sharp decline in demand for zinc in galvanised steel making that's led to a 55 percent fall in zinc prices in the past one year.
The production cuts to date are causing sharp drops in spot treatment and refining charges in Asia and are also responsible for decline in this year's benchmark terms, which are now being settled at much more favourable terms for miners but had yet to arrest falling metal prices, Oz Minerals Chief Executive Andrew Michelmore told reporters.
"We've seen over a million tonnes come off," he told reporters, and added a significant amount of tonnage had also been eliminated in China.
Spot treatment charges for zinc concentrates shipped to China for smelting have plummeted to $110-$120 tonne from $190 a tonne at the start of 2009, Michelmore said.
"If the market was so oversupplied (with concentrate) the treatment charges would be rising, but in fact they are falling," he said.
Sources told Reuters this week the benchmark was set at $194 per tonne based on a $1,250 a tonne London Metal Exchange zinc price [ID:nN25445522]
Further production cuts are likely to occur among the producers in Europe where a strong euro was providing little cushion for suppliers, given the hefty declines in U.S. dollar zinc prices, he said.
In Europe, Germany's Ruhr Zinc, Romania's Copsa Mica and Romanian zinc and Sometra, Bulgaria's KCM and Cartagena in Spain have closed or trimmed back, removing some 300,000 tonnes of zinc from the supply pool.http://uk.reuters.com/article/rbssIndustryMaterialsUtilitiesNews/idUKSYD23139220090227
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Zinc
Research: In the study, 209 seventh graders, 111 girls and 98 boys, consumed four ounces of fruit juice containing 0, 10 or 20 mg of zinc gluconate each school day for 10-12 weeks. Students, their parents and teachers did not know who was receiving which, if any, zinc supplementation until the study was completed. At the beginning and the end of the study, students performed a battery of tasks designed to measure mental and motor skills, like attention, memory, problem-solving and hand-eye coordination.
Results: Adolescents who drank orange juice packed with 20 mg of zinc performed better on memory and attention exercises compared to those whose diet was not supplemented and youngsters who received the recommended 10 mg per day. Researchers noted zinc deficiency is not uncommon, even in the U.S. The risk could be particularly high in adolescents because they are undergoing rapid growth and often have poor eating habits.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb223/is_5_8/ai_n29182488?tag=content;col1
Results: Adolescents who drank orange juice packed with 20 mg of zinc performed better on memory and attention exercises compared to those whose diet was not supplemented and youngsters who received the recommended 10 mg per day. Researchers noted zinc deficiency is not uncommon, even in the U.S. The risk could be particularly high in adolescents because they are undergoing rapid growth and often have poor eating habits.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb223/is_5_8/ai_n29182488?tag=content;col1
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
METALS-Shanghai copper, zinc jump 5 pct on China econ hopes
* Shanghai copper, zinc rise by 5 percent daily limit
* London copper extends Friday rally on China factor
* Rally seen "fragile" (Updates prices, adds details)
By Manolo Serapio Jr.
MANILA, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Shanghai copper futures surged by their 5 percent daily limit for a second straight session on Monday, tracking London's Friday rally on optimism about economic recovery in China, the world's biggest consumer of the industrial metal.
Copper's gains lifted other base metals, with zinc also hitting its 5 percent ceiling and aluminium jumping more than 3 percent.
"There is a return of optimism in the market on hopes of a recovery or a bottoming-out in economic conditions within this year, and China is a big part in this following some signs of better economic data there,"http://www.forbes.com/feeds/reuters/2009/02/09/2009-02-09T080458Z_01_MAN375358_
RTRIDST_0_MARKETS-METALS-UPDATE-2.html
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
HZL prices firm on anticipated zinc demand
MUMBAI: Zinc Futures strengthened anticipating rise in demand in the next financial year. Prices of Zinc Futures rose marginally on the MCX following reports of the increase in the demand of steel as the infrastructure activities pick up pace.
It is felt globally that recession is a time to get the infrastructure projects going. In building infrastructure projects, the economy gets wider as more and more money get rotated creating more employment opportunities and more need for infrastructure related raw materials.
Country's largest zinc producer, Hindustan Zinc Ltd (HZL) declared that it would increase its production on the possibility of rise in demand. As a result, stock prices of HZL have seen an upward swing on the BSE. Stock touched its intra-day high of Rs.341 and settled at Rs.333 up by nearly 2% in the afternoon session.
However, company, which exports about 20 percent of its output, had announced price cut in zinc by Rs.800 to Rs.68,900 per tonne with effect from 31st January, 2009, only a fortnight after its previous announcement of price cut by Rs.1400 to Rs.73,300 per tonne on January 15 when the company stock traded at Rs.355 on the BSE.
Zinc consumption slackened due to slowing construction activity and weak sales of autos and consumer goods. However, as fallout of the directives by the central government to the states to speed up developmental construction activities, the demand for steel is anticipated to rise, which would prove as a booster for the zinc production too, which is used in producing galvanized steel.
http://www.commodityonline.com/news/HZL-prices-firm-on-anticipated-zinc-demand-14857-3-1.html
It is felt globally that recession is a time to get the infrastructure projects going. In building infrastructure projects, the economy gets wider as more and more money get rotated creating more employment opportunities and more need for infrastructure related raw materials.
Country's largest zinc producer, Hindustan Zinc Ltd (HZL) declared that it would increase its production on the possibility of rise in demand. As a result, stock prices of HZL have seen an upward swing on the BSE. Stock touched its intra-day high of Rs.341 and settled at Rs.333 up by nearly 2% in the afternoon session.
However, company, which exports about 20 percent of its output, had announced price cut in zinc by Rs.800 to Rs.68,900 per tonne with effect from 31st January, 2009, only a fortnight after its previous announcement of price cut by Rs.1400 to Rs.73,300 per tonne on January 15 when the company stock traded at Rs.355 on the BSE.
Zinc consumption slackened due to slowing construction activity and weak sales of autos and consumer goods. However, as fallout of the directives by the central government to the states to speed up developmental construction activities, the demand for steel is anticipated to rise, which would prove as a booster for the zinc production too, which is used in producing galvanized steel.
http://www.commodityonline.com/news/HZL-prices-firm-on-anticipated-zinc-demand-14857-3-1.html
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Miscast Steel heading for NYC Opera
Eyebrows rose last summer when the Dallas Opera named George Steel its new general director.
Oh, sure, the opera board was proud of landing a "star" from New York.
And there was boo-hooing in the New York media at the loss of one of the artsy crowd's darlings, acclaimed for 11 years of imaginative programming at Columbia University's Miller Theatre.
But with the Dallas Opera facing daunting financial challenges with its impending move to the Dallas Center for the Performing Arts Winspear Opera House, savvy operaphiles wondered why Dallas was hiring someone who had never run an opera company. And it wasn't long after Steel's arrival here, in October, that whispers of discontent became a crescendo of complaint.
Then, on Wednesday, came confirmation of what had been rumored for the last month: Steel is leaving at the end of January to take over the New York City Opera.
Abuzz with gossip for weeks, opera blogs have gone nuclear over the news. (If you don't mind some adult language, check parterre.com.)
Whatever his gifts, and the good intentions of the Dallas Opera board, George Steel was miscast here.
He was right to advocate more adventurous programming. For a company with a history of imaginative offerings in decades past, the Dallas Opera has gone bland in recent years. The 2008-09 season is about as daring as macaroni and cheese.
But, in a challenging economy, when audiences hesitate to take chances on anything but sure bets, Steel was making noises about booking really obscure French operas and Leonard Bernstein's generally dismissed A Quiet Place.
He evinced little interest in the mainstream Mozart-to-Puccini repertory that fills seats and pays bills. One person close to the opera wondered whether Steel could name the top five characters in the five most popular operas.
Yet he seemed determined to second-guess choices made by experienced senior staff.
Nobody will say so for the record, but even far beyond Dallas it's no secret that staff members, even orchestra musicians, found Steel remote and dismissive.
Steel could run his own show at the Miller Theatre, but opera companies depend on elaborate webs of collaboration.
Several members of the company expressed amazement that Steel hardly stuck his head into rehearsals for The Marriage of Figaro and never attended a complete performance. They were also surprised when he didn't put in an appearance at some gatherings with patrons. He sometimes seemed more interested in promoting himself as a conductor than in actually running the opera company.
He could not be reached on Friday to discuss his departure. On Wednesday, he spoke glowingly of the company, saying it was "poised on the threshold of extraordinary things."
Steel is the Dallas Opera's third general director this decade who hasn't lived up to expectations, and hasn't lasted long.
Anthony Whitworth-Jones, a British charmer, pushed daring programming but evinced little enthusiasm for raising money.
Another Brit, Karen Stone, proved effective at fundraising, but people skills weren't her forte.
By all accounts, Steel was a great success at the Miller Theatre. But with a university-subsidized budget of $3.5 million, he only had to fill 688 seats for single performances.
The Dallas Opera, by contrast, will have 2,200 seats to fill in the Winspear Opera House.
And while a seat count one-third smaller than the Music Hall's will vastly improve both visual and aural experiences, it will require more performances, raising costs.
The current $12 million budget will need to grow.
With his preppy good looks, obvious intelligence and smooth-talking manner, Steel may be just the savior the New York City Opera needs.
We can only wish him and that seriously beleaguered company well.
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/ent/stories/DN-steel_0117gd.ART.State.Edition1.4ed711c.html
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