Gelsenkirchen, 19.10.2007. Plastics have triumphed over the last 70 years, replacing conventional materials such as metal, glass and paper. Many applications have only become possible thanks to multi-talents such as polyurethane. According to experts, the potential for innovation is far from exhausted.
In 2006, 205 million metric tons of plastic materials were produced worldwide, around 15 million metric tons more than in 2005. In Germany, the plastics-producing industry generated 22.2 billion euros (+ 6.1 percent on the previous year). Plastics consumption also rose in 2006 by 2.2 percent to 21.4 million metric tons. Experts predict that the volume of plastic materials produced worldwide will continue to grow. The PlasticsEurope association anticipates an annual increase of around five percent.
One of the most important sectors of the German economy is the plastics processing industry, which employs around 276,000 people and includes Masterflex AG. In 2006, plastics processors generated sales of € 49.3 billion, and in the first half of 2007, sales increased by a further 9.9 percent according to the German Plastics Processing Industry Association (GKV).
This year, Masterflex AG looks back on twenty years of successful corporate history. Founded in 1987 with three employees, the now listed company now employs almost 800 people worldwide. Its core business is the manufacture of technical hoses, especially from the special plastic polyurethane, for demanding industrial applications.
With its new Master-PUR Inline hose range, Masterflex AG is now presenting the world's first seamless hoses at K 2007 from October 24 to 31, 2007. A unique patented process makes it possible for the first time to produce hose qualities with a previously unattainable smoothness and variable wall thickness, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
From October 24 to 31, 2007, Masterflex AG will be presenting this innovation and its hose range in Düsseldorf at K 2007, the world's largest plastics trade fair.