Owens Corning, CPIC Team Up To Manufacture Wind Blade Materials

In a move to support the growing wind industry, Ohio-based Owens Corning has entered into a strategic cooperation and supply agreement with China-based Chongqing Polycomp International Corp. (CPIC).

The companies will jointly invest in a new facility dedicated to the manufacture of high-modulus glass fiber products in China. Expected to be operational by mid-2019, the facility – located in Chongqing – will include a glass furnace with an annual production capacity of 110,000 metric tons.

“This agreement positions two leading players in the wind industry to deliver the most advanced glass fiber technologies to serve growing industry demand for high-modulus glass,” comments Marcio Sandri, president of Owens Corning’s composites business. “The combination of innovative glass technology, enhanced quality and efficiency and large-scale volumes will be beneficial to our respective customers. Wind energy is a key strategic market for Owens Corning representing a major platform for our growth in China – and globally.”

According to the companies, their high-performance glass fiber product enables the construction of longer, stronger and lighter wind blades – which is critical to enhancing the competitiveness of wind energy and proliferating the use of composites in supporting alternative energy applications.

Wenxue Zhang, chairman of CPIC, adds, “With this agreement, both parties will closely cooperate using the most advanced technology, equipment and management systems to build the world’s largest operation of its kind. This strategic cooperation will drive industry growth and deliver complementary advantages for both companies.”

While Owens Corning and CPIC will work together in support of the new manufacturing location, the companies will maintain independent commercial operations and continue to provide their respective product offerings to customers through separate commercial channels.

The agreement with CPIC is consistent with Owens Corning’s strategy to meet market growth with competitive products and reduced capital investments.

“We look forward to working with CPIC and building on this opportunity to advance composites technology and deliver on the needs of our customers,” Sandri adds.