Global joint-venture in automotive sealing systems

Jyco Sealing Technologies has entered into a joint venture with Inoac Corporation of Japan which defines a global alliance for producing thermoplastic vulcanizate automotive sealing systems. Jyco, a Michigan-based company with production facilities in Sherbrooke, QC, specializes in TPV sealing systems. It will provide process technology and design services. Inoac will direct the manufacture of existing Jyco sealing systems, including glass run channel, in a new Shanghai plant now under construction. Production will be conducted under the subsidiary name of IJC. The JV’s management unit has been incorporated as IJJ.
“The alliance reflects the fast-growing importance of TPV in the global automotive industry,” noted Sam Jyawook, president and CEO of Jyco. “It gives Jyco an immediate presence in the Asian market. And by starting with parts already in production in North America, the joint venture quickly brings Inoac to the forefront of TPV sealing technology.”
Jyco pioneered process and design innovations that quickly made it a leader in TPV automotive sealing system technology. The company currently manufactures over 100 automotive parts at its Sherbrooke production plant, and are in the process of doubling that facility’s capability.
“The environmental benefits of TPV processing are especially important to Inoac,” notes Jyawook. “The superior performance and lighter weight are attractive advantages to everyone, but the increased safety and 100% recyclability of TPV is a perfect fit with Inoac’s commitment to designing materials and products in ways that also protect the environment.”
The $2.6 billion Inoac Group spans over 90 companies in 13 countries. The company produces a wide variety of elastomeric parts and products for the automotive, construction, electronics, cosmetics, furniture and other consumer products industries.