New Technology Helps Steel Users Avoid 30% Price Increase; Hot Rolled Can Replace Cold Rolled Steel

EVANSTON, Ill.--Feb. 1, 20047, 2004--Evanston based IRMCO(R) www.irmco.com has developed a high performance metal forming film technology that gives lower grade metal (all metal types) the formability of higher grades. This breakthrough allows metal users to lower their metal and scrap cost without scarifying quality.

IRMCO's high performance film enhances metal's ability to stretch and flow consistently during severe drawing or forming operations at a cost of $5/ton. The most difficult parts: oil pans, auto frames, body parts, compressor housings, LP tanks, and lawnmower decks can be stamped, drawn or formed with less scrap or tool wear. The economic impact is significant.

$100/ton Savings

One study at a global steel user determined that a deep drawn part could be produced with HR (Hot Rolled) steel instead of CR (Cold Rolled) steel. There is about a $100/ton cost difference between HR and CR in the .074+ thickness range.

Lowered Scrap Saves $100,000 (1%)

IRMCO's coating also affects metal forming scrap rates. A one percent reduction in scrap has a significant impact. A steel user pays in two ways: wasted metal and wasted time. The time spent making bad parts can quickly add up, and the value of the scrapped metal can never be regained. A 1% scrap reduction saves $100,000 for a 20,000 ton steel user paying $500/ton.

Using Applied Science To Assure Savings

IRMCO's Greenleaf Technologies Group uses applied science to perform "In-Press Strain Deformation Mapping". Critical areas of production metal are electrochemically gridded, formed, and then analyzed. The resultant strain data is then mapped to record the metal thinning at critical areas. This serves as a baseline of current process's capability. Alternative metal and/or coating combinations can then be studied accurately.

IRMCO is a privately held advanced lubricant technology firm in Evanston, IL specializing in metal strain analysis and process optimization.