Performance Fibers Sysko Expands To Produce New Ultra Low Shrinkage Fibers In South Korea

Richmond, VA - Performance Fibers, supplier of polyester fibers, recently announced an expansion at its joint venture operation in South Korea to produce next-generation, ultra low shrinkage fibers for specialty uses. Performance Fibers SYSKO partner Sam Yang Corp. is building an addition to its Jeonju plant and installing new, state of-the-art equipment that will increase capacity by about 20 percent. Construction has begun and is expected to be complete by March 2007,according to the company.

These low shrinkage products will be used in broadwoven and coated fabric end uses, including awnings, tarps, tents, roofing, outdoor upholstery, signage and geosynthetics. In addition, the expansion will enable the South Korean operations to increase production of adhesive active yarns for rubber reinforcement applications, such as consumer hoses and belts, and fiber for automotive seat belts.

"This expansion will strengthen the leading global position Performance Fibers SYSKO has established for developing world-class, low shrinkage fiber products," said Greg Rogowski, president and CEO of Performance Fibers. "With the latest in advanced technology, we will better serve our customers in the growing Asian region."

"The investment we are making to increase capacity and develop next generation polyester products demonstrates the joint venture's dedication to be successful as the largest supplier of low shrink, high tenacity polyester fibers to the automotive and industrial segments we serve," said Yoon Kim, chairman and CEO of Sam Yang Corp., the largest of Performance Fibers' three partners in this venture.

SOURCE: Performance Fibers