IRMCO's Advanced Metal Forming Film Lowers Cost Of High Strength Steel Automotive Parts; New Data Shows a 200% Increase In Tool Life

EVANSTON, Ill.--March 18, 2005--IRMCO FLUIDS(R) ADVANCED HIGH STRENGTH STEEL FORMULA technology is increasing the profit and productivity of OEM auto suppliers of structural automotive parts made from Advanced high strength steel (AHSS). New studies with IRMCO's chemical film at four Tier 1 and 2 suppliers show as much as a 200% increase in tool life productivity. Additionally, lab test show product allows AHSS to Stretch 25% greater compared to current industry standard.

AHSS's high KSI (kilopounds per square inch) (a measure of yield strength), increased springback, tendency to work-harden, and run at elevated forming temperature is creating a host of tooling and productivity challenges for auto suppliers of structural components. IRMCO's high performance chemistry provides a protective coating on AHSS at elevated temperatures and tool pressures, allowing metal to form uniformly with reduced friction and tool wear.

With over 60 percent of structural automotive stampings now being made from some form of high strength steel (including: DP600, DP800, TRIP Steel, MART Steel) auto suppliers are scrambling for quick solutions. IRMCO's break-through is timely.

Field Testing Results

New Ford 250 Chassis: - Tool trials on uncoated D2 inserts showed only 4 hits before needing work. IRMCO increased the hits to over 500 before any polish was required.

Ford 500 Suspension Assembly - Reduced cracking and polishing 200% on 60 KSI material.

Shock Assembly component went from 2,000 to 10,000 parts before tooling showed any sign of wear.

IRMCO is an advanced lubricant technology firm specializing in metal strain, friction analysis, process and tooling optimization, and lean solutions.