Farewell to the Eiffel-Tower-shaped substations!
Landmark of Paris, the Eiffel Tower, will be reborn as a virtual Eiffel Tower 133 years after its construction. This is designed to create a low carbon, cyclical, and regenerated version for sustainable future, resolving the issues of accelerated urbanization, greenhouse gas emissions, and excessive energy consumption. You might find similar shapes around you, those “analog” substations, which are gradually being digitalized. They have a smart digital system to monitor the status of power facilities, collect data, and control various devices. What would happen if electricity became unavailable for just a few seconds in Korea? It is unimaginable. Korea recorded 10,039㎾h of electricity usage per person in 2019, much higher than that of the U.K. (4,431㎾h), Germany (6,107㎾h), France (6,739㎾h), and Japan (7,545㎾h). A high demand calls for ways to increase energy efficiency. Transition into digital substation is valid in terms of cost and environment. That is why Hyosung Heavy Industries, the leader of transmission and substation business at home and abroad, has been focusing on digitalizing the substations and making them eco-friendly. Transition to digital substations to build an intelligent power grid Though substations visibly around us, it is hard to see how important they are. This is where electricity with a higher than 50,000V of voltage from power plants is transformed and transmitted to end users. This is also where transformers and other electric facilities are located. Electricity goes through substations from power plants to end users via long transmission lines. To minimize the power loss while passing through the transmission lines, thicker lines are chosen for lower resistance or transmission voltage is increased. However, thicker lines require bigger substations and utility poles, so it is more economical to increase the transmission voltage and decrease the current at substations. In Korea, it is increased to hundreds of kV (154kV, 345kV, 765kV) or decreased to 22.9V or 220V at the substations before it reaches end users at home and businesses. Substations concentrate or distribute the voltage and control load flow and protect transmission lines and equipment. Hyosung Heavy Industries has provided power equipment including extra-high voltage transformer, circuit breaker, and electric components for more than 50 years. It succeeded in developing the voltage-type extra HVDC for the first time in Korea. This is a core technology for the next-generation power grid as it can improve the transmission efficiency and reliability for long-distance transmission compared to AC. It is also equipped with the world-class technology related to heavy electric machinery, a critical part in industrial energy. Thanks to its know-how, it is recognized as a company with excellent quality and technology in global markets including the US, the Middle East, and Europe. Substations are becoming digitalized in the age of digitalization, which is automatically operated. Connection and disconnection of power can be controlled with the IT system, and real-time monitoring is possible. Previous with analog substations, the health of the equipment had to be checked manually, but digital substations are intelligently operated as they have automated and advanced digital technology for monitoring, controlling, and instrumentation of power equipment. Faults can even be predicted and troubleshot. This is why it is called an “intelligent substation” thanks to its high performance and easy operation. Substations play a prominent role in power supply, working like a person’s heart. Therefore, it is important to manage it in a sophisticated manner. Facilities and equipments in the substation communicate with each other for monitoring, controlling, and protection. In the analog way, there was a limit to the amount of data that can be secured, with electric signals transmitted through copper wires. Also, workers had to take a risk as they had to manually handle the faults. With the digital substation, however, it is possible to transform electric signals into digital signals thanks to fiber cables among substation systems, which enables a faster and more efficient operation. You can identify the health of more complicated and sophisticated systems. Inefficient distribution of power might lead to power shortage or errors in usage instrumentation and bills. With the digital substation, you can check and resolve these issues in a swift manner. The digital substation is an essential part to build an intelligent power grid and digitalize power equipment as it enables a stable and efficient operation of a complicated grid system with various energy sources. This is the reason countries with advanced grid systems focus on digitalizing substations for future power grid. Hyosung Heavy Industries is also committed to creating digital substation under the belief that it will improve the quality of life and prepare for an eco-friendly future. Hyosung Heavy Industries’ core technology opened the door to overseas markets with technology localization Hyosung Heavy Industries has led the power equipment business including transformers and circuit breakers, major devices for power transmission lines. Countries around the globe have been building an intelligent transmission infrastructure with digital substations. In line, Hyosung Heavy Industries’ LPIT and MU with its own technology passed the official certificate test by the IEC. LPIT and MU are core technology to build a digital substation based on IEC 61850-9-2, and international companies have dominated the domestic market so far. With its successful localization, Hyosung offers an alternative to imports, sharpening its competitive edge. Hyosung’s LPIT applies the built-in voltage/current sensor within the GIS module, offering better precision than the existing metal pin-type transformers with less volume and 60% less SF6. With the digital data communication based on MU, it will use less control cables and trays. It will be easier to apply new technology such as predictive diagnostics and asset management system. Also, it reduces the required space by scaling down the control and protection board. It has a great potential in the global market. Hyosung Heavy Industries’ efforts to supply eco-friendly power Hyosung Heavy Industries has also concentrated on developing and providing products with eco-friendly insulating materials. It uses ester oil instead of mineral oil, removing the risk of environmental degradation and securing the safety. It has offered transformers with eco-friendly insulating oil to countries in Europe and the Middle East while continuing its research. Ester oil is from plants or animals, and it has the best viscosity and excellent solvency without any impurities. It works well at a low or high temperature and causes less sludge. Though it is more expensive than mineral oil, it is environmentally friendly as it can be dissolved in nature. Hyosung has also been developing 170kW eco-friendly gas switchgear with CO2 (combined with fluorine nitril) instead of SF6 for internal insulation. It will take the lead in reducing greenhouse gas from the power system by applying it to new substations and replacing dilapidated facilities in Korea. Hyosung Heavy Industries will apply sustainable and eco-friendly technology to various power facilities including switchgears and transformers. With its environmentally friendly cutting edge, it will continue to expand its global market share, starting with Europe. Hyosung has expanded its investment in future technology to prepare against the domestic and global market trend of eco-friendliness and digitalization. Hyosung has continued its efforts to provide the optimal performance and quality in line with the market demand and trend. It has also concentrated on minimizing the environmental impact by developing technologies for the next generation energy including ESS, expansion and supply of hydrogen charging stations. Hyosung is proud to be committed to making people’s lives more convenient and sustainable with smarter digital substations and eco-friendly energy system, replacing the Eiffel Tower-like substations. Hyosung Heavy Industries will continue to progress in the direction of future technology and sustainability.
2023-05-19
Together, for Greater Value - Let’s Do It All Together, Even the Small Things
"Within the company, we utilize tumblers instead of paper cups. Employing tumblers is one of the most effortless methods to enact a zero-waste lifestyle." At Hyosung TNC, paper cups are nowhere to be found. This is due to their ongoing 'Eliminate Disposable Cups in the Workplace' campaign, aimed at reducing single-use items in daily life. In order to encourage participation in this campaign, employees have been provided with funds to purchase personal tumblers, and disposable items such as paper cups in break rooms have been eliminated. Initiated in May 2021, the campaign continues to this day. Approximately 190,000 paper cups were used in Hyosung TNC offices during 2020, which equates to an annual emission of roughly 2 tons of carbon dioxide. The collective efforts of individuals willing to endure minor inconveniences can result in a staggering reduction of 2 tons of carbon dioxide emissions – is that not truly remarkable? We gathered firsthand impressions from three employees actively participating in eco-friendly campaigns at a company that vigorously promotes environmentally conscious workplace culture. Q. What were your initial thoughts upon hearing about the 'Eliminate Disposable Cups in the Workplace' campaign? Employee A(🥰): I was intrigued by the prospect of directly participating in 'ESG activities', which have been a rising issue. Although ESG activities are a global direction, I thought they had little direct relevance to my everyday life. However, through the in-house campaign, I found it fascinating that I could naturally contribute to ESG activities in my daily life and closely experience ESG endeavors. Employee B(🌞): I knew that ESG activities were beneficial for the environment, but I didn't think there would be any direct benefits for me. Protecting the environment inevitably entails some inconvenience for people. But by using a tumbler instead of paper cups, I was able to gain financial benefits. The company could reduce the cost of purchasing disposable cups, and I could receive discounts at cafes by using a tumbler. I thought it was a good campaign since it reduced disposable cup expenses while directly contributing to environmental protection. Q. Were there any concerns among employees when they first heard about the campaign? Employee A(🥰): When I first learned of the company's plans for the campaign, several concerns came to mind. The main reason we had failed to reduce the use of disposable items was the need to accept personal inconveniences. To carry out the campaign, we had to allocate sometime during work to wash cups and prepare mugs for client visits. Although seemingly trivial, changing our daily routines required us to develop a sense of purpose and adjust our mindset for participating in the campaign. Considering the negative impact of disposable items and the environmental benefits of using tumblers and mugs, I eventually decided to practice it. Q. What is the most significant change you've noticed since implementing the 'Eliminate Disposable Cups in the Workplace' campaign? Employee C(🌸): Naturally, the amount of waste from disposable items has decreased considerably. In the past, I used 2-3 paper cups daily, but since the campaign, I've consciously avoided not only paper cups but also other disposable items. I initially thought of it as a small habit-changing campaign, but it seems to have gradually altered my environmental awareness. Q. If your environmental consciousness has changed, do you also practice this outside of work? Employee B(🌞): I use a tumbler when I go to the gym for exercise, and I actively try to use a tumbler when visiting cafes outside of work. Some cafes even offer discounts when using a tumbler. In such cases, I feel proud to contribute to environmental protection while enjoying the added benefit of a coffee discount. Employee C(🌸): Since becoming more aware of disposable items, I realized I use many of them when ordering delivery food. So, when I order food at home, I indicate 'no need for disposable items' in the request section. Washing dishes after eating may be a bit bothersome, but considering the impact these habits have on the environment, I'm happy to practice them willingly. Q. Your participation in the in-house campaign has contributed to reducing annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2 tons. You must be very proud. How do you feel about this achievement? Employee A(🥰): Although it may seem like a small practice, it was even more meaningful that we could easily contribute to preventing environmental destruction just by participating. Before the campaign, I was well aware of the seriousness of environmental destruction through articles and documentaries addressing issues like the Amazon rainforest deforestation and the risk of polar bear extinction. However, I didn't actually practice environmental protection for reasons like lack of awareness or inconvenience. But with the company's active encouragement to use tumblers, a simple action, I was very proud to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. I also found it rewarding that small practices from my colleagues came together to achieve such significant results. Employee B(🌞): The activity I started for participating in the campaign has now become my habit. I used to find washing tumblers bothersome, and carrying them around inconvenient, sometimes forgetting them, but now I always carry one when I go out. In addition to tumblers, I started using reusable items like hand towels instead of disposable ones. Practicing these habits, I feel like I have become more diligent than before. I am very proud to have recognized the necessity of environmental protection through the in-house campaign and to practice it even outside the company. Q. What other eco-friendly campaigns can be carried out in the workplace? Employee C(🌸): I think implementing a 'Reuse One-sided Paper Campaign' would be beneficial. There is a lot of paper used only once and then discarded in office life, which feels wasteful. Actively encouraging the use of the blank side of printed pages could help protect the environment. Additionally, starting with small actions like unplugging unused power cords or using stairs for short-distance travel within the building could lead everyone to practice them, just like the 'Eliminate Disposable Cups in the Workplace' campaign. In addition to these efforts, Hyosung TNC has expanded the 'regen® Upcycling Campaign' to its business locations nationwide this year. The 'regen® Upcycling Campaign' is a PET bottle collection campaign where employees bring PET bottles, which are then exchanged for goods and bags made from Hyosung TNC's recycled polyester fiber, regen Polyester. Last year, about 9,000 PET bottles were collected, and this year's goal is to collect 15,000. The carbon reduction effect of this campaign is similar to the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by approximately 70 pine trees in a year. There is a theory called the 'butterfly effect,' which states that a small flap of a butterfly's wings can cause a typhoon on the other side of the earth. Although it is currently a campaign limited to Hyosung TNC employees, their small efforts, when combined, can someday instill a belief in eco-friendliness among all members of every company. As this culture becomes established, wouldn't it lead to all people around the world actively practicing environmental protection? Today, as they dream of an eco-friendly future, Hyosung TNC employees continue to participate in eco-friendly campaigns.
2023-05-12
Hyosung’s Nylon Liner for FCEV
When we think of eco-friendly cars, hydrogen, electric, and hybrid cars come up to one’s mind. Did you know that hydrogen car is a kind of electric car? The official name of hydrogen car is Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV). FCEV generates electricity from hydrogen, which runs vehicles. Hydrogen chemically reacts with oxygen at the fuel cell, creating electricity, which is transformed into kinetic energy that runs vehicles. It is different from electric cars as it has a built-in hydrogen tank for storage and fuel cell. The most important part of hydrogen cars is a vessel to safely store highly pressurized hydrogen. What kinds of high-pressure vessels are there? High-pressure storage vessel – the core part of hydrogen cars There are four types of high-pressure containers to store gas such as hydrogen. Type 1) working pressure: 175-200 bar, for LPG (vehicle, household) or CNG Type 2) working pressure: 250-300 bar, for CNG Type 3) working pressure: 300-450 bar, for CNG, ventilator Type 4) working pressure: 700-800 bar, for hydrogen You can choose a different type of high-pressure vessel based on the features required. Only Type 4 is suitable for storing hydrogen higher than the pressure of 700-bar as it is the most lightweight but most durable which helps to increase the efficiency. Type 1 and Type 2 are relatively cheaper but heavy and vulnerable to corrosion, there is not suitable for cars. Type 3 is lighter than Type 1 and 2, but it cannot withstand the required pressure of hydrogen cars. Type 4 can withstand a much higher pressure but lighter weight than Type 3 thanks to the special liner material. Common liners are steel or aluminum, but Type 4 uses nylon. This is where Hyosung TNC comes in as the manufacturer of the nylon liner. Hyosung TNC’s Nylon liner, what is special about it? What is a liner? The high-pressure container that stores hydrogen needs to be resistant to high pressure to store hydrogen safely, block gas to prevent hydrogen leakage, withstand the drastic temperature differences between charging and discharging, and be lightweight to increase the fuel efficiency. It must meet all these requirements, and the liners determine how much pressure the container can withstand. It is inside the fuel tank and an essential component to store hydrogen and prevent leakage. Conventional high-pressure containers such as Type 1 to 3 use metal liners. They are heavy with a high risk of breakage that cracks when exposed to hydrogen for a long time. You can use HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) for Type 4 at 400-bar levels. However, it cannot withstand the 700-bar required by an FCEV. It also has a low level of gas blocking. Meanwhile, Hyosung developed the nylon liner, first of its kind in Korea. It has low hydrogen absorption and air permeability, eliminating potential brittleness, enabling longer and safer use. Hyosung TNC created the special nylon liner Hyosung’s nylon liner is 70% lighter than metal and 50% lighter than HDPE. Its gas barrier property is also 30% higher than metal and 50% higher than HDPE. It has everything required by FCEV. It also has an optimized impact resistance from -40ºC to 85ºC. The nylon liner is enough to be recognized as an outstanding core component, but there is more to Hyosung’s innovation around hydrogen storage technology. Hyosung also has carbon fiber composite on top of the nylon liner, which further enhances the safety of the high-pressure storage tank. FCEV! Hydrogen Mobility! Hyosung accelerates its efforts for eco-friendliness The nylon liner market has been dominated by international companies, but Hyosung became the first Korean company to develop the nylon liner, laying the foundation for global market expansion. H2 Research, a renowned market research firm specializing in hydrogen market, predicts that the production of global FCEV market is expected to grow in earnest from 10 thousand and record 1.05 million annual productions by 2030. There is an increasing demand for the nylon liner, where you can use Hyosung’s products. If various hydrogen mobility markets including FCEV expand, it means more potential for nylon liners. With its technology, Hyosung aims to contribute to transitioning into an eco-friendly hydrogen society. Hyosung has the largest capacity in terms of hydrogen charging stations. It has created a hydrogen value chain through various efforts including construction of liquefied hydrogen plant and filling stations. It also manufactures carbon fiber, an essential element for fuel tanks for FCEV. With nylon liners, it is transforming into a company specializing in hydrogen, with manufacturing capabilities ranging from production to distribution, storage, and utilization. Considering Hyosung’s commitment to environment, it is expected to play a bigger role in the hydrogen industry. The nylon liner is expected to be combined with Hyosung’s regen Nylon, recycled nylon yarn, to become an eco-friendly nylon liner in the future. Hyosung is making its utmost efforts to live up to the industry expectation. Based on advanced technology, Hyosung has been striving to develop sustainable technology for the next generation and the environment. Hyosung’s endeavor to create better solution and technology for better quality of life continues into the future.
2023-05-04
Active Packaging that Maintains the Freshness of Products
The digitalization of our food purchasing culture is gaining momentum, with the ease and convenience of shopping for groceries using mobile delivery apps. However, food can get spoilt, or its freshness can be compromised during the delivery process. No matter how quickly or how easily food can be delivered, if the food that you ordered after mulling over the choices must be thrown into the wastebasket, you will hesitate the next time you order food delivery. Today, “smart” packaging materials are being developed with which you can package and store foods to prolong their freshness. Hyosung Chemical is one of the most outstanding manufacturers that is adding value and convenience to our eating lifestyles through its world-class nylon films, PET films, and polypropylene (PP) films. Active packaging using “smart” film that ensures the freshness and safety of groceries The big issue in industries is how to provide food products more safely and in a way that ensures their freshness. The ability to store food for as long as possible without destroying or degrading it also affects customer satisfaction, not just the food hygiene. The traditional wrapping materials with which foods were wrapped merely protected them from external shocks and impurities. Today, however, new types of packaging materials, collectively referred to as “active packaging”, are being introduced that extends the expiration dates of food products by improving freshness and by removing or adding elements like oxygen and carbon dioxide that are needed to extend the shelf life of food products. Hyosung Chemical's self-developed nylon film, the top seller in South Korea’s nylon film market, boasts excellent impact resistance characteristics, has anti-pinhole characteristics, is very printable, and can block out oxygen molecules. This means food can be stored for a long time without requiring a separate preservation process. Hyosung’s nylon film in particular, can maintain a vacuum state inside the packaging through its ability to block out oxygen, and hence it can protect the sterilized interior without the need for preservatives. Due to this characteristic, nylon is widely used as a pouch for packaging fresh produce, container lids, and for retort food packaging, i.e. food that is processed by sealing and then pressurizing it for long-term storage. Thanks to their excellent quality, Hyosung’s nylon films are not only used for diverse purposes in the food industry but are also used widely as a packaging material for detergents, refillable goods, and other daily necessities that we encounter in our daily lives. Besides nylon film, PET film is another product that has become the core product of the food industry. Hyosung Chemical's PET film is non-toxic and non-odorous, and excels in blocking out air. Its uniform thickness translates into very high mechanical strength, and it has excellent thermal characteristics as well as chemical stability. As a result, it is widely used as a material for packaging food. Due to its excellent product characteristics, just like in the case of nylon, Hyosung’s PET film is used as a retort food packaging material, and even more widely for packaging daily necessities. Furthermore, due to their excellent printability, PET films are used as a material for labels, stickers, and advertising banners, as well as for high-gloss sheets on home appliances such as screen displays, refrigerators, and washing machines. To keep pace with the pro-environmental trend, Hyosung Chemical has been busy at work developing and researching post-consumer recycled (PCR) products that can reduce carbon emissions. An excellent example is mechanically recycled PET film. As it can be inferred from its name, environmentally-friendly PET film is made from discarded PET bottle materials that are collected and recycled mechanically. That said, it would be wrong to view recycled film as a simple product. Around 99% of Hyosung Chemical's mechanically recycled PET film is made from environmentally-friendly raw materials. This is a product with a high degree of purity because it is manufactured with recycled flake chips made from discarded PET bottles. As such, it should be viewed as a truly environmentally-friendly recycled PET film. During the manufacturing process, the carbon emission rate is reduced by 30% or more when compared to the manufacturing process for regular films. Are you perhaps concerned that a product made from PET bottles might have quality problems while not discounting its positive effects on the environment? Well, there is nothing to worry about. MR recycled PET film is not only an environmentally-friendly product, but it is also a high-quality film created with technological know-how developed through years of effort and investment. Through continuous research and quality testing, Hyosung is now manufacturing MR recycled PET films whose quality is on par with regular PET films. With PP materials, it’s okay to heat your food in a microwave oven! Were you ever worried about the safety of eating hot food delivered in a container or heated in a microwave with the packaging material left intact? This is an unnecessary concern because, nowadays, food producers use PP materials - smart plastics that are safe, harmless to the human body, can withstand high heat, and do not secrete environmental hormones. Used widely by many people in their daily lives, PP (polypropylene) material is a high-tech product with advanced attributes such as the ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures, high rigidity, and strong resistance to impacts. So it would be a mistake to view PP in the same light as ordinary plastic. In addition, PP is composed solely of carbon and oxygen; it does not contain any raw ingredients that are harmful to the human body, and hence no environmental hormones are emitted by PP. For this reason, PP is used widely in numerous objects that come into contact with the human body, such as food containers and packaging films. You can tell whether a food container is made from a safe PP material simply by checking for the existence of a PP mark (No. 5) on the container. This mark identifies the container as being made from a PP material that does not secrete any bisphenol A, an environmental hormone. A PP material can withstand both high and cold temperatures, tolerating high temperatures of up to 121-165°C and cold temperatures as low as -20°C. This is why bowls used to carry food deliveries, containers for storing food ingredients in refrigerators, multi-use containers, water bottles, containers for instant rice, and lunchboxes are often made of a PP material. Due to its excellent durability and material properties, PP is also widely used in baby bottles and other baby products that come into contact with the skin of infants who have weaker immunity than adults. This is the reason PP is sometimes called a safe baby bottle material. As befits its name, PP containers melt at temperatures above 165°C. Because they neither become deformed nor secrete environmental hormones when they are disinfected or heated in a microwave at temperatures of around 100°C, they are very safe to use. However, for the sake of safety, using a PP container not to warm food but rather to directly cook food is something that is highly discouraged. You should also bear in my mind that removing the packaging vinyl or lid (if it is made of a material other than PP) before using a PP container is the most sensible way of using a PP material. Hyosung Chemical was the first company in South Korea to commercialize the dehydrogenation process for extracting PP from propane The company has been supplying products made of PP material over the past twenty or more years based on its independently developed technological capabilities. The know-how accumulated over many years has enabled Hyosung Chemical to manufacture PP materials of outstanding characteristics. Indeed, the company’s products are used in a broad range of products such as airtight food containers, shampoo bottles, coffee pots, and other home-use products, as well as for products in the pipe, film, and medical categories that require careful handling. Hyosung Chemical’s steady research and development efforts to improve product quality and increase product differentiation have resulted in product quality enhancements that have made its PP products globally competitive as well as making it the most preferred brand in the market. The lining and the outer fabric of face masks that we wear all the time, and which come into direct contact with our mouth and nose, are all made of PP, including the static electricity filter that goes into the mask. PP is the material of choice for products that come into close contact with people's respiratory systems because it is a safe plastic. In this way, PP has become indispensable in our daily lives. Hyosung Chemical for a safe and convenient daily life! Hyosung Chemical is improving our quality of life with nylon film, PET film, and PP products that deliver convenience, safety and value to our eating habits and daily lives. Hyosung is leading the acceleration of the industry’s shift to environment-friendly products by developing truly environmentally friendly packaging materials such as MR recycled PET film, and PCR PP made of recycled PP materials characterized by outstanding quality and environmental-friendliness. With these materials, customers can produce products that transform our lives for the better and create a more sustainable society. Hyosung Chemical plans to continuously identify new environment-friendly products, gradually expand the scope of application (to apply to industrial packaging, food packaging, daily necessity packaging) of recyclable PCT PET film, and comply fully with the government's environmental regulation on ‘recycling more than 50% of plastic packaging waste’.
2023-04-28
Hyosung’s ESG brand strategy, RE:GEN, for the future of the next generation
Recently, the phenomenon of "eco-wakening" has been spreading, especially on social media. This trend signifies the increasing awareness and concern of people towards the destruction of nature. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), environmental awareness and a sense of urgency have rapidly spread, with keywords such as "climate crisis," "biodiversity," "marine litter," and "environmentally friendly consumption" posted in YouTube comments. The public, now highly aware of environmental issues, seeks to consume products from "ethical companies" that go beyond being eco-friendly to becoming eco-necessary. In response to this demand, many companies are practicing ESG management. There are often companies that make not only genuine efforts to develop eco-friendly products but also lead ESG-compliant businesses to exert a positive influence, such as Hyosung. Hyosung goes beyond value-driven ESG management for social impact and creates eco-necessary products based on exceptional technology. Hyosung's technology is being utilized to achieve symbiotic purposes, specifically, to ensure that the future generations live in a more comfortable environment. Based on this technology, Hyosung aspires to reply to the needs of every generation’s future under Hyosung Group's ESG brand, RE:GEN. Hyosung achieving sustainable growth under the RE:GEN brand, with the purpose to ‘Reply to Every Generation’s Future For the sake of the future, it is crucial to confront reality first. In order to solve the global problems facing our generation today, innovative technologies are necessary. At the same time to enjoy current prosperity and wish for the well-being of future generations, these technologies must consider their environmental impact. What we need is an "ESG technology for every generation's future." Therefore, Hyosung is pursuing a realistic ESG strategy that combines Hyosung's technology to solve practical problems that will impact all generations' future. As the first step of this strategy, Hyosung Group has announced the RE:GEN branding, an ESG brand for the group. RE:GEN, which means "Reply to Every Generation's Future," is the direction that Hyosung intends to take in the future. In order to respond to a sustainable future for all generations. Hyosung is not simply engaging in ESG activities that are distinct from business, but continuing efforts in constant innovation and technological development based on its technological DNA. Hyosung aims to become a company that proposes innovative solutions for a better future for all generations. Hyosung's dedication to pursuing sustainability for every generation’s future Hyosung is pursuing sustainability through resource conservation and recycling, in the form of a circular economy. A circular economy cannot be created solely by Hyosung, but it rather requires collaboration among all stakeholders, from the supply chain to raw materials and end-users in establishing a perfect cycle. Hyosung is leading the way in this circular economy by building an eco-system with the goal of zero waste in this cycle. Carbon neutrality aims to increase the absorption rate of emitted carbon dioxide, ultimately reducing the actual amount of carbon dioxide emissions to zero. This carbon neutrality is achieved through various efforts ranging from resource conservation to energy efficiency throughout the entire production and consumption process. Hyosung is researching, developing, and innovating to minimize carbon emissions in its production processes and manufactured products, for the purpose of carbon neutrality. The scarce resources of the Earth we live in are rapidly depleting, and conventional fossil fuels and nuclear power are destroying the environment. New energy, which can replace them, such as renewable energy, is an essential field that must be developed for the future of the next generation. Sustainable new energy technologies cannot be achieved in a single moment. However, Hyosung’s DNA is essentially based on its efforts to achieve results through consistent efforts until hydrogen and renewable energy can replace fossil fuels and nuclear power. Hyosung aims to establish a value chain that covers materials, components, operational technologies, and distribution systems to commercialize and increase the efficiency of hydrogen and renewable energy. In addition, Hyosung strives to develop innovative technologies that minimize energy, resource usage, and harmful elements in all cycles of production and operation to reduce hazardous elements and conserve resources. Hyosung’s excellent technology in ESG management Hyosung TNC has pioneered environmentally friendly products, resulting in development of the wide range of eco-friendly polyester, nylon and spandex products domestically. Through the eco-friendly fiber brand regen, Hyosung TNC aims to create a virtuous eco-cycle for a more sustainable future. Hyosung TNC’s eco-friendly polyester yarn, 'regen Polyester,' utilizes useful components from discarded PET bottles, while 'regen Nylon' is produced by recycling discarded nylon or collecting discarded fishing nets to regenerate into environmentally friendly yarn. In addition, Hyosung TNC has developed 'regen Spandex' made from recycled spandex and regen Bio-Based Spandex' made from natural raw materials. Hyosung's environmentally conscious 'regen project' promotes a resource circulation system by recycling PET bottles collected from local governments such as Seoul and Jeju into recycled fibers and has gained recognition from consumers for the company's positive impact on the environment. Hyosung Advanced Materials has developed automotive carpets using recycled BCF (Bulked Continuous Filament) to reduce industrial waste and industrial Bio PET made from plant-based Bio EG and Bio TPA. Additionally, Hyosung Advanced Materials has developed an eco-friendly 'Dip' that does not use resorcinol or formalin, which not only reduces harmful substances within the production process but also extends the tire’s lifespan. The lyocell tirecord made from cellulose extracted from wood, reduces harmful waste generation, thereby preventing air and water pollution. Furthermore, the domestically developed ultra-lightweight high-strength carbon fiber 'TANSOME®' and steel cord contributes well to reducing carbon emissions by improving vehicle fuel efficiency. Hyosung Heavy Industries, a leader in domestic energy storage systems (ESS), supplies ESS for various purposes such as renewable energy integration, frequency regulation, peak reduction, and independent microgrids. The utilization of high-voltage direct current transmission (HVDC), which converts the high-voltage AC power from power plants into high-efficiency DC power, have opened up the possibilities for expanding the supply of renewable energy and increased the cross-border power interconnections. Hyosung Heavy Industries, which operates and constructs 700-bar hydrogen vehicle charging systems for next-generation eco-friendly hydrogen vehicles, has increased the convenience of hydrogen vehicle operation by supplying them to various places such as Hyundai Motor's Namyang Research Institute, Ulsan & Korea Expressway Corporation, and Hyundai Mobis. Additionally, Hyosung Heavy Industries has developed a smart grid technology, called the static compensator (STATCOM), which compensates for the relatively unstable power generation and supply of renewable energy. Hyosung Heavy Industries is the only company in Korea to possess the commercialization technology of STATCOM. The reason why Hyosung Chemical's polyketone brand, POKETONE™, is attracting more attention is because of its eco-friendliness. It captures carbon monoxide, the main culprit of air pollution, to create new resources. In addition, every time one ton of polyketone is produced, it reduces approximately 0.5 tons of carbon monoxide. Through the development of durable and eco-friendly technologies, Hyosung Chemical is contributing to reducing environmental pollution. Hyosung’s dynamic ESG activities Hyosung Group strives for sustainable growth from a long-term perspective, which is the ultimate goal of ESG management, making efforts to have a significant impact on social and environmental benefits. Hyosung aims to systematize and commercialize its technology to create a cycle structure that leads to environmentally friendly actions from raw materials to end-users. Moreover, Hyosung Group does not stop here. With its ESG brand RE:GEN, Hyosung seeks to show meticulous interest in many things we take for granted and execute meaningful projects for the future of the next generation. Furthermore, the future we dream of cannot be achieved solely by individual efforts. Hyosung seeks to discover RE:GEN Alliance brands that share its vision, and contribute practically to the world for better values and a better future together. Hyosung will support the growth and coexistence of the companies that have formed an alliance as a guaranteed brand of Hyosung RE:GEN Alliance. By thinking and executing for the future of the earth through an alliance, then a greener and more sustainable future will come. If the ocean becomes polluted, the fish and creatures within it disappear, causing the collapse of the marine food chain. Hyosung Group aims to take the first step towards a journey that benefits all generations and species beyond borders. To do so, Hyosung will become a RE:GEN GUARDIAN for biodiversity conservation and kick off the Seagrass Forest project. Under Marine Ecosystem Law, seagrass has been designated as a marine protected species and is recognized as a prominent source of blue carbon that plays a crucial role in absorbing carbon within the marine ecosystem. In order to conserve the habitat of these seagrasses, Hyosung has contributed to the Coastal Village Mutual Cooperation Fund. The fund that Hyosung contributed to will be used for various marine activities, such as "monitoring the distribution and habitat of seagrasses," "transplanting seagrass to locations for them to prosper," and "collecting abandoned fishing nets in the ocean." Furthermore, Hyosung is continuing its efforts to preserve the marine ecosystem by developing recycled fibers from discarded fishing nets. Hyosung's ESG activities are carried out in a practical and concrete way. Rather than simply offering abstract words such as symbiosis and sustainable future, Hyosung plans to contribute to creating a future where everyone can live together by developing tangible technologies that can be implemented directly. Hyosung will strive not only to provide convenient technologies for the current generation but also to create an environment where future generations can live with nature. With RE:GEN, which conveys Hyosung's unique philosophy and vision, together with technology, we will respond to the future of all generations.
2023-04-24
Hyosung’s Eco-Friendly Spandex Made From Corn
In August 2022, Korea-based comprehensive fiber manufacturer Hyosung TNC commercialized bio-based spandex, an innovative product that uses a strikingly unique ingredient: corn. Renowned for its exceptional elasticity, spandex is generally produced using raw materials extracted from petroleum. Then what inspired and enabled the invention of corn-based spandex, given that corn is a crop that typically hardens after processing? The answer lies in the UN General Assembly of 2015. UN’s 17 Collective Goals for Humanity At the 2015 UN General Assembly, the world came together to adopt the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of 17 collective goals for humanity to achieve sustainable development. Aiming to be met by 2030, SDGs cover five different domains: people, planet, prosperity, peace, and partnership. As a company long committed to enhancing humanity's well-being, Hyosung TNC has been tirelessly working towards sustainable development. It has integrated four of the SDGs into its business operations, namely SDG3 for good health and well-being, SDG8 for decent work and economic growth, SDG12 for responsible consumption and production, and SDG13 for climate action. Hyosung TNC: Leading the Future of Eco-Friendly Yarns In pursuit of the four SDGs, Hyosung TNC has dedicated itself to leveraging innovative green technologies to better serve humanity. As a global leader in fiber materials, Hyosung feels an obligation to prevent climate change by developing eco-friendly fabrics and supporting a sustainable apparel industry. Pursing this path not only contributes to economic growth but also promotes the wellness and well-being of customers. Hyosung’s relentless efforts led to the successful commercialization of its bio-based spandex, the world’s first spandex using natural materials derived from corn. This breakthrough marked the debut of corn as a viable source for producing high-performance spandex, after having long been primarily used as a food source and partially for less sensitive bio products. The use of corns as raw materials is not entirely new, as we can see many examples around us. After corn-derived materials gained recognition as eco-friendly alternatives, polylactic acid (PLA), which is produced from lactic acid fermented from corn-derived glucose, has been widely used in toothbrushes, straws, baby tableware, trays, and other food containers, among others. Corn-based materials have already been used for various everyday items such as paint and wrapping paper, cosmetics containing corn-derived ingredients and liquid detergents containing corn-derived deodorants. However, technological limitations prevented its application in spandex, as highly advanced technology is required to produce such a high-performance fiber with remarkable elasticity. Hyosung TNC boasts accumulated experience and unrivaled technology for producing spandex yarn, which accounts for a third of the global spandex market. The bio-based spandex of Hyosung is the culmination of its technological prowess and more than three years of R&D efforts. Corn: The Key ingredient of Hyosung’s Bio-Based Spandex Corn-derived biomaterials are the key ingredients of Hyosung’s bio-based spandex. Through years-long research, Hyosung discovered the best combination of biomaterials and conventional spandex materials, developing a yarn that maintains the same performance and properties as conventional spandex. Compared to other yarns, spandex is a highly sensitive material. In fact, even slight changes in manufacturing conditions can greatly alter its elasticity. A piece of clothing made with spandex of an unusual elasticity level leads to lower product quality, such as sweatpants stretching out after a short period of wear. This explains why Hyosung TNC is so far the only one in the world to have succeeded in developing and commercializing bio-based spandex. Despite challenging conditions, Hyosung continued its research to utilize corn-derived materials as an eco-friendly source for spandex, placing the utmost priority on delivering world-class quality to customers. Eventually, Hyosung’s endeavor bore fruit, making it the first and only fiber manufacturer to have developed an eco-friendly spandex yarn that performs just as well as conventional spandex. The successful development of bio-based spandex is the ultimate testament to the technological prowess and know-how Hyosung has accumulated for 60 years. Ensuring Transparency and Environmental Friendliness across Manufacturing The use of bio-based materials has enabled Hyosung TNC to reduce its use of fossil fuels in proportion to its use of corn-derived materials, while lowering its dependence on petroleum, which is still essential for industrial processes. While gradually replacing more petroleum-sourced materials with corn-derived materials, Hyosung TNC will continue its research until it finally develops purely corn-based spandex. Hyosung is ensuring transparency and eco-friendliness across all manufacturing procedures, including thorough direct management of the supply of sustainable corn-derived materials. The corn used in manufacturing is not the type for human consumption, but dent corn used for industrial purposes such as fuel ethanol and cooking oil or livestock feed. Production management is also strict. Farmers who supply corn to Hyosung TNC must meet a wide variety of requirements such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving nitrogen efficiency, meticulously managing soil quality in cultivation areas, and managing supply chains transparently. All this demonstrates how Hyosung TNC defines eco-friendliness: Being truly eco-friendly not only means replacing one raw material with a bio-based one but ensuring transparency and traceability from raw material procurement to the very end of the manufacturing process. Such an uncompromising approach has earned Hyosung's bio-based spandex the Eco Product Mark, an eco-friendly certification from the world’s leading certification body SGS (Société Générale de Surveillance), providing impetus to Hyosung’s green moves. Towards the Development of Biodegradable Yarns Amid increased public awareness of global warming, materials such as polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and PLA are growing in popularity and applications for their low-carbon and biodegradable nature. Down the road, biodegradable fibers using natural materials are expected to advance from the recently emerging recycled fibers as the leading eco-friendly textiles. Indeed, biodegradable fibers decompose within a few years of being buried, causing less harm to the environment and serving as a more nature-friendly option than other fibers. As a pacesetter in biodegradable fibers, Hyosung has already embarked on R&D in biodegradable recycled PET yarns. From manufacturing to the end of product use, protecting the environment will be the utmost priority across the entire life cycle of biodegradable recycled PET yarns, which is why they are expected to contribute to the betterment of the environment. Hyosung TNC is leading the global fiber market while steadily developing eco-friendly fibers in a bid for a better life for everyone.
2023-04-21
ICEs, EVs, Autonomous Vehicles: They All Need Tires! (Part 3)
With the growing attention towards net zero and environmental awareness, the international community has been mobilizing itself to come up with ways to impose transnational regulations to protect our environment. Industries around the world have also begun paying more attention to ways of doing business that would enable them to co-exist with the environment, going beyond traditional business values of putting economic sense and efficiency first. The automobile industry is no exception. With the adoption of EVs and hydrogen cars that run without combustion engine, markets are now tilting toward using green raw materials and secondary materials. Tires are also part of this consideration. On top of performance enhancements, tire manufacturers are looking for ways to improve fuel efficiency by cutting down on carbon dioxide emission while putting more emphasis on life cycle assessment. As such, more and more makers are turning to green raw and secondary materials. Hyosung Advanced Materials has focused on environmental impact and climate change early on and has been pursuing businesses that would help us co-exist with our environment. As a leading tire reinforcement material maker, the company has been pioneering in the development and commercialization of tirecords with green materials. Hyosung has also introduced heavier denier cord for heavy duty tire construction which has improved fuel efficiency of automobiles. Hyosung Advanced Materials brings a difference to sustainable tirecords too. A tire cord from a fiber made from wood Hyosung Advanced Materials had been working on developing an eco-friendly material that could replace rayon reinforcement used for high-performance tires with excellent heat resistance. As a result, the company has developed and been producing lyocell tirecord made from wood pulp cellulose for the first time in the world. They are 100% biodegradable and emit 30% less greenhouse gases compared to existing rayon or nylon tirecords. Though they are made of eco-friendly materials, their quality and durability are the same as existing conventional tirecords, which are all attributable to Hyosung’s technology and strenuous efforts in R&D. In addition, its manufacturing process does not emit pollutants such as carbon disulfide or hydrogen sulfide thanks to its eco-friendly manufacturing processes including recycling of solvent extraction and non-reliance on toxic chemicals. Thus, lyocell tirecord and its manufacturing process heads off polluting the air or water to further contribute to environmental protection. All in all, it is an excellent alternative to high quality tires made of synthetic fibers. Tires made of eco-friendly PET Hyosung Advanced Materials has produced industrial-class bio-PET yarns based on ethylene glycol made from sugarcane or corns instead of the conventional way of extracting the material from crude oil. Hyosung’s bio-PET yarns are used for tirecords and car mats. These eco-friendly yarns are free from depletion of source materials or environmental impact. Some EVs and hydrogen vehicles have already been using products made of Hyosung’s bio-PET yarns. Since 2020, the company has been working with key vendors to develop PET tirecords made from recycled plastic including PET bottles. Eco-friendly polyester yarn extracted from recycled PET bottles is a product of Hyosung. As the world’s leading PET tirecord maker, the polyester yarn from the company has been gaining traction and trust from the market around the world. The recycled-PET yarn has acquired the Global Recycle Standard (GRS) certification from Control Union, the Netherlands based international certification body for eco-friendly businesses. The GRS certification is known for its thorough review process covering the origins of materials and eco-friendly manufacturing processes as well as the whole production supply chain and traceability of each step. As such, the product with a GRS certification is regarded as eco-friendly over the entire cycle of production. Hyosung’s recycled PET yarn is as such the most optimal material for next-generation PET tirecords as it meets the requirements of technology and sustainability. Green tirecords taking leadership in environmental protection It is notable that Hyosung’s eco-friendly tirecords cut down on carbon dioxide emissions dramatically compared to their conventional counterparts. The recycled PET tirecord made from recycled plastic emits 44% less carbon dioxide while bio PET tirecord made from plant extractions cut carbon emissions by 16%. Hyosung Advanced Materials aims for a transition of all tirecords products into eco-friendly PET tirecords by 2050. To this end, the company has been working hard on related technological development while collaborating with key vendors. In addition, the company has been working on developing various eco-friendly PET materials such as new tirecords made from discarded fishing nets and wastes from glass etching process in semiconductor industry. Its eco-friendly product portfolio is in turn only going to grow. Chemical solutions can be eco-friendly too For enhanced tire strengths, tirecords have to be dried at a high temperature with a combination of chemical solutions before they are finished in production. Hyosung Advanced Materials has recently developed an eco-friendly solution called ‘Eco Dip’ that can replace the existing chemical solutions and will soon be able to commercially introduce to the market. Hyosung’s Eco Dip does not use formaldehyde and resorcinol which are regulated under the EU REACH since June 1, 2007 by the EU to protect human health and the environment from the use of chemicals. Eco Dip is expected to contribute to environmental protection by extending the lifecycle of tires with its higher fatigue resistance. Leading in an era where eco-friendliness is not a choice but a must Being eco-friendly is no longer a matter of choice but a matter of course. Consumers can make informed choices based on their respective values when it comes to consumer goods such as clothing, toothbrush or tumbler. However, products such as automobile tires are hidden in the supply chain and thus out of reach for those looking for environmentally friendly products. Hyosung Advanced Materials has been filling this gap by developing and introducing products such as lyocell, bio-PET and recycled-PET tirecords and materials such as Eco Dip to create a green virtuous cycle. Hyosung Advanced Materials is committed to realizing a sustainable world for all generations, beyond just wishful thinking. Eco-friendly tirecords initiated by Hyosung are already sailing on fair winds.
2023-04-17
ICEs, EVs, Autonomous Vehicles: They All Need Tires! (Part 2)
One might be surprised to find how many reinforcements compose a tire when cut in half. Tires need various reinforcements other than rubber to withstand the weight of an automobile so that they can have better safety, durability and drivability. Tire reinforcements can come in a few different forms including steel. However, fiber-based materials such as polyester or nylon are the most common form. It may seem strange to have tires made of fibers when their purpose of existence is to enhance strength and durability. However, the more you find out about tirecord, the better you would understand the fact that high-quality fibers are the optimal material as of today for tire reinforcements. Tirecord is a reinforcing material that constitutes the inside of a tire and is a vital material that helps tires maintain their shape and makes the driving more comfortable. It is also critical in the shape of a tire as it helps maintain the tire pressure and withstand the vehicle weight. When driving, it also helps tires absorb shock and maintain stability while accelerating. Evolving tirecord Tirecord has evolved together with the development of the automobile industry. In the late 1980s when tires came out in pneumatic forms, plain weave fabrics were used as reinforcement materials, but lacked durability. In turn, tirecord fabrics which we see today were first developed in 1892. Initially, cotton fabrics were used for tirecords but coming into the 1940s tirecords adopted rayon fabrics for better heat-resistance. As commercial vehicles opted for bigger sizes and high-performing features into the late 1940s and 1950s, tires increasingly required better durability, weight-resistance, and heat-resistance. This was when researchers turned to nylon fabrics as an option. As a result, the transition was made in the late 1960s from rayon-based fabrics to nylon-based tirecords. Coming into the 1960s, radial tires with cord plies arranged at 90 degrees to the direction of the vehicle were introduced to a market where bias tires with crisscrossed plies were dominant. This was a game changer in the tire industry and in turn PET tirecords with better strength and rigidity emerged as the most favored material for radial tires. This has made polyester and nylon as the two key ingredients for tirecords. No.1 polyester tirecord maker, Hyosung Advanced Materials Hyosung Advanced Materials’ polyester tirecord is the world’s bestselling name with half of vehicles on the road in the world using it. Hyosung Advanced Materials entered the tire reinforcement market and in 1968 it introduced nylon tirecord for the first time in Korea, followed by polyester tirecord and bead wire in 1979. Entering 1987, the company started to produce steel cord with which it has grown into a world-class tire reinforcement brand with its all-round manufacturing and supply portfolio. Hyosung operates sophisticated production sites not only in Korea but also in countries such as Vietnam, China, US, and Europe to meet the demand of its global clients. It has also joined hands with other global leading tire names to work on developing safer and more convenient tires, tapping into its existing world-class technology. A variety of fiber-based tirecords by Hyosung Advanced Materials Hyosung Advanced Materials has been satisfying various needs of customers including ones related to sustainability. At the same time, it has been considering market situations requiring different functionality in line with different types of vehicles as well as the intrinsic nature of tires that prioritizes a high level of technology and quality. As such, it has been leading the global tire market by introducing various tirecords based on synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester and lyocell. The reason Hyosung Advanced Materials has been able to meet such various needs of customers has to do with the company’s technology competitiveness and production capacity. Its top three tirecords are nylon tirecord, polyester tirecord and lyocell tirecord. Nylon tirecord is known for heat-resistance and adhesive property. It is used for cap plies for radial tires. Not only that, but it is also used for the carcass for special tires used in trucks, buses, airplanes, and motorcycles. Polyester tirecord is known for tensile strength, supreme shape stability and adhesive property. It is used for carcass for radial tires for passenger vehicles. Hyosung Advanced Materials has introduced lyocell tirecord for the first time in the world. It was produced in an environmentally friendly manner to replace rayon tirecord. Lyocell tirecord emits 30% less greenhouse gas than rayon or nylon tirecord. Enhanced tire reinforcements boost performance and contribute to sustainability! E-vehicles and hydrogen vehicles are on the rise as concerns over sustainability grow. They run on electric motors unlike their conventional counterparts. Using electric motors, an EV can make maximum torque at zero RPM which means an EV does not need time to accelerate unlike traditional engines. More torque means faster reach to maximum horsepower compared to gas-powered cars. But it means quicker wear and tear of tires. These vehicles also have narrower tires for better energy efficiency and lower rolling resistance. Because of the weight of the batteries, tires for EV should have much better durability than that of conventional vehicles. Therefore, sophisticated reinforcements are critical in tires for next-generation vehicles. The average drive distance per charge is an important measurement of EVs’ performance, and running on lightweight high-performance tires means better energy efficiency. Such tires will cut down on the overall weight of the automobile structure to enhance fuel efficiency. And thanks to their strength and durability they last longer to ensure safety. Hyosung Advanced Materials to pursue evolution of tires with its high-strength tirecord Hyosung Advanced Materials has introduced advanced high-strength tirecords on the combination of cap plies and aramid fiber it has developed with its proprietary technology. With the rolling process, the use of rubber in the manufacturing of the tirecords has dramatically reduced and thus they become much thinner. These high-strength tirecords render lower rolling resistance, better fuel efficiency and less greenhouse gas emission. They should bring in a breakthrough in traversability and stability of EVs and hydrogen vehicles. Hyosung Advanced Materials is not to stop here but to continue to move ahead with its commitment to technological innovation in research and development for better tirecords for safe driving. As the leading developer of sophisticated materials for tirecords, Hyosung Advanced Materials’ future endeavors are in turn to draw much traction. In the next part of this series, we will look into green trends in the tirecord industry.
2023-04-14
Ices, EVS, Autonomous Vehicles: They All Need Tires! (Part 1)
All roads lead to Rome. Indeed, when traveling in Europe, you are likely to find yourself on the vast network of Roman roads that stretches from the city throughout the continent. The Roman roads stand as a testament to the remarkable engineering expertise of ancient Romans and the immense hard work required in construction. Time has not diminished the impressive legacy of the Roman roads which served as fast and convenient routes for the Roman army and transportation of goods and resource. What is noteworthy is that the establishment of the Roman roads were driven by the wheel. With its circular frame rotating on an axis, the wheel revolutionized transportation by making it easier and faster to move people and transport heavy objects. But when did humanity first invent the wheel, which is hailed as one of the major inventions in history? By exploring the history of the wheel and the significance of Hyosung Advanced Material’s tire reinforcements, we can gain clearer insight into the present and future of tires. The World’s First Wheel While the exact date of the invention of the first wheel remains unknown, it is believed that disc-shaped logs were used as rollers since around 5000 BC. Depictions of chariots with wheels can be found in wall paintings from around 2500 BC in Mesopotamian Sumerian culture. The disc-shaped log was the first wheel in history, followed by the invention of the spoked wheel around 2000 BC, which is the wheel shape we know today. The evolution of wheel is closely tied to the evolution of warfare. Adding wheels to the chariot, the first mobile weapons platform, made it possible to move and fight simultaneously. The invention of wheeled carts was sparked by the use of heavy cannons. Wheels made of wood or iron have gradually evolved into more durable and stable forms. In 1865, R.W. Thompson ushered in the era of tires when he developed the solid tire, a metal wheel with rubber attached to it. John Boyd Dunlop invented the air-filled bicycle tire in 1888, which led to the development of air-filled tires used today. These tires are filled with water and then inflated with air to absorb shock and provide a smoother and more pleasant ride. In 1895, the Michelin brothers invented air pressure tires for automobiles with separable and replaceable tubes. The tube-type air pressure tires allow for a more comfortable ride by absorbing shocks better than solid rubber and better fuel efficiency thanks to their light weight. While air pressure tires are durable and suitable for poor road conditions, they are difficult to replace. On top of that, punctures during high-speed driving can cause air to escape quickly, leading to serious accidents. To improve tire safety and performance, the tire industry has developed stronger and more robust tires with steel tire beads that hold the tire to the rim, while using rayon cords to make new tires with enhanced performance. The tire industry is constantly developing new materials for even safer and higher-performing tires. The development of advanced materials for tires enhances tire performance, which underscores the significance of R&D efforts by Hyosung Advanced Materials, the global leader in tire reinforcement materials. Hyosung Advanced Materials, A Global Leader in Tire Reinforcements High-strength tire reinforcements inside the tire serve as its skeleton. Without these materials, the tire would not be able to withstand the weight of the car nor maintain a stable shape. In addition, shock absorption and driving performance would be diminished. In fact, imagine driving on an unpaved road with no tire reinforcements in the tires of our cars, buses, and taxis. It would be an uncomfortable and bumpy ride. Various parts made of different materials are used to produce tire reinforcements for improved vehicle safety, ride quality, handling, cornering, noise, and driving performance on the road. Hyosung Advanced Materials employs innovative technology and reliable production capabilities to produce a variety of tire reinforcements, playing an important role in the mobility industry. Steel Cord: The Indispensable Material for Tire Manufacturing The steel material used in tire reinforcements is called steel cord, which is made by twisting thin wires into a layered structure. Steel cords protect the tire reinforcements and absorb shocks from the road. It plays other critical roles, such as improving the vehicle's driving performance, maintaining tire pressure, and supporting the car's weight. These indispensable qualities highlight the importance of steel cords in tires. The significant role of steel cords means it must maintain high quality. In particular, it should have excellent resistance to internal wear to ensure tire durability even after long drives. Hyosung Advanced Materials’ steel cords boast high quality, preventing the weakening of the connection between steel cords and rubber due to external factors such as long-distance or high-speed driving, heavy loads, and low tire pressure, and minimizing the risk of separation. Steel cords must also meet various qualifications, such as having high rigidity to minimize tire deformation. Hyosung Advanced Materials produces steel cords that satisfy these diverse and stringent requirements and supplies them to leading global tire companies. Bead wire is another essential tire reinforcement made of steel, composed of multiple strands of steel wire that are twisted together. Bead wire is responsible for securing the tire to the wheel, as well as maintaining air pressure inside the tire. Hyosung Advanced Materials produces and supplies steel cords, bead wire and other various steel tire reinforcements which are all essential for tire safety and driving. Its work is reinforcing its position as a global innovator in tire reinforcement technology. Hyosung High-Strength Steel Cords Embrace Eco-Friendly Trend Recently, environmentally friendly tires with low fuel consumption and high durability have gained much attention in the market. Higher durability prolongs the lifespan of tires and reduces waste, while lighter tires can decrease the overall weight of the vehicle, improving fuel efficiency. For electric vehicles, more durable and lighter tires are needed to withstand the increased weight of the battery unit and improve fuel efficiency. In 1999, Hyosung Advanced Materials developed NT (Normal Tensile, 2850 MPa), HT (High Tensile, 3300 MPa), and ST (Super Tensile, 3650 MPa) steel cords which offer good fuel efficiency. In 2006, it introduced UT (Ultra Tensile, 4000 MPa) high-strength steel cords to the market. Hyosung's high-strength steel cords can reduce the amount of steel cords and rubber required for tire production, without sacrificing tire performance. In other words, it can help reduce CO2 footprint and mitigate air pollution by reducing tire weight and improving fuel efficiency while maintaining durability. Hyosung Advance Materials Leads the Way in Advancing Steel Cords In a bid to further enhance the durability of steel cords, Hyosung Advanced Materials is developing stronger filaments and experimenting with different twisting directions and lengths for steel cords to reduce wear and tear caused by long-term use. Development of a hybrid cord that combines iron and fiber is also underway. To improve the adhesion durability between the steel cord and rubber, Hyosung Advanced Materials is developing a new coating method that does not compromise adhesive strength. In parallel, it is exploring and employing technologies to minimize steel cords’ contact with moisture or air by improving rubber penetration. Hyosung Advanced Materials' research efforts to improve steel cords have no limits. It produces a wide variety of tire reinforcing materials, including steel cords, bead wires, and even fiber tire cords, all of which have improved driver safety around the world. Through continuous R&D of materials, including steel cords, Hyosung Advanced Materials is solidifying its position as a leader in the global tire reinforcements market. Along with steel cords, tirecords made of fibers are another innovative tire reinforcement created by Hyosung Advanced Materials. This material will be discussed in detail in the next article.
2023-04-10
Pump Innovations That Enable Strong Connections
Whenever we hear news about how a Korean drama that was moderately popular among domestic viewers has become a hit overseas, rising to Netflix's most-watched ranking, we are filled with a sense of excitement. It is not just K-dramas that are on a roll; there are hidden champions in the world of business, too. These companies are gaining popularity overseas while consolidating their positions in the domestic market. Hyosung Goodsprings, a leading South Korean pump manufacturer, is a case in point. A hidden ace that supplies every type of pump we need in our daily lives Images of large factories tend to spring to mind whenever someone mentions the word ‘pump’. A pump is a product that is closely connected to our daily lives. The tap water that feeds into your apartment or house can only flow in with the power supplied by a pump. And the electricity that we rely on every day are supplied to us through pumps at the electric power station where electricity is produced. Industrial water pumps for oil refineries and manufacturing processes enable the production of many, if not all, of the items necessary for our daily lives, such as toothbrushes, shampoos, apparel, cell phones, cosmetics, and medical drugs. This is how important pumps are in our lives. Hyosung Goodsprings established a pump manufacturing business back in 1962, and it has been manufacturing and supplying a wide range of pumps to the South Korean and overseas markets ever since. Hyosung’s pumps are used in oil and gas plants, power generation plants, and regular industrial plants, as well as in regular buildings and high-rise buildings. The company has contributed to the development of the domestic and foreign energy industries with its world's best technology for manufacturing and supplying not only boiler feed pumps (BFP) and circulation wave pumps (CWP), which are the main pumps of power plants, but also safety grade pumps for nuclear power plants. Especially since acquiring the Korea Electric Power Industry Code (KEPIC) certification for safety-rated pumps used in nuclear reactors in 1998, the company has been supplying key, technologically complex nuclear reactor pumps. Also, as the first South Korean company to develop a pump for nuclear reactors, Hyosung Goodsprings is today recognized as a specialist in power plant pumps. Recently, an increasing number of countries have been returning to nuclear power as it seems to be the scarcely viable solution for realizing carbon neutrality and energy security. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has concluded that in order to achieve Net Zero by 2050, nuclear power plant capacity will have to be doubled from the current 400GW to around 800GW. As such, it predicts that an increasing number of countries will choose to extend the lifespan of their existing nuclear power plants and construct new nuclear power plants. The South Korean government is also preparing to resume the construction of Shin Hanul Reactor Units 3 and 4 in accordance with its policies on national energy security and carbon neutrality. With the growing importance of nuclear reactors, the South Korean government is pushing hard to increase exports to the Czech Republic and Poland and is heavily promoting South Korea's feat of winning the project to construct the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant in Egypt. The government is hoping that if South Korea wins the bids to build nuclear power plants in the two eastern European countries, it will ultimately boost Korea’s competitiveness (when bidding for future projects) and power in the global market for nuclear power plants. Based on its outstanding technological capabilities and products, Hyosung Goodsprings has been able to maintain its position in the nuclear reactor pump business for many years. Starting with the Yeonggwang Reactor Units 3 and 4 in 1992, followed by eighteen other domestic reactors including the Uljin, Shin Kori, and Shin Uljin reactors, Hyosung Goodsprings has supplied around KRW 340 billion worth of pumps needed by these reactors for their operations. Meanwhile, in the global arena, the company has supplied pumps to the Barakah Reactor Unit 4 in the United Arab Emirates. As a major supplier of pumps, including safety-rated nuclear reactor pumps, the company is expected to contribute immensely to South Korea’s transformation into a powerhouse in the global nuclear market, by developing and delivering products whose performances are continuously upgraded. Hyosung Goodsprings’ competitiveness as a player in global markets Did you know that Hyosung Goodsprings' products are impressing many customers in the global markets? With high-pressure pumps that can tolerate 400 bar pressure and an operating range of -195°C to +450°C, the company's products satisfy the tight requirements of some of the world's most notable customers including Exxon Mobil of the United States and Aramco of Saudi Arabia, and the company is gaining recognition in overseas markets based on the strong performances of its products. The company develops and manufactures high-pressure and large-size pumps for use in power plants and petrochemical plants. Because the company’s pump products meet the ISO and API (American Petroleum Institute) standards, the company is able to export over 70% of its pumps to customers in foreign markets. The UAE’s ADNOC project of 2019 should be mentioned here as an exemplary illustration of the success Hyosung Goodsprings is enjoying in global markets. ADNOC, or Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, is the national oil company of the UAE. Hyosung Goodsprings supplied 79 different kinds of pumps worth 47.8 billion won to ADNOC through Samsung Engineering. The pumps included ultra-high temperature and ultra-high pressure-resistant reactor feed pumps for oil refineries. As a single feed pump can cause a whole plant to come to a halt if it is defective, it is a product that can only be manufactured and supplied by a few key manufacturers. Potential bidders to supply the pump are carefully screened before they are allowed to submit their bids. In addition to this, Hyosung Goodsprings is building its brand credibility by supplying pumps that are optimally designed to satisfy the technical specifications requested by global companies. Pumps are no exceptions! Hyosung’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions through energy savings The environmental regulations that are being introduced by countries around the world to reduce carbon dioxide emissions requires companies to respond actively with essential measures. Companies are concerned over how to cut back on energy consumption in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions amid the current economic downturn. To address this issue, Hyosung Goodsprings designed a high-efficiency pump that saves energy by using less electric power. Immediately, an R&D project was initiated to develop this pump. The eco-friendly pump project was successful, and now it is being supplied to many industrial sites. The steel industry is an example of an industry that consumes substantial electric power. In the case of POSCO’s Pohang factory, its electricity expenses of around KRW 700 billion per year made it necessary to reduce its energy consumption. Normally, motor loads account for about 45% of electricity consumption, and 60% of the electricity consumed by motor loads can be traced to pumps. Also, about 25% of total electricity expenditure is due to the electricity used by pumps. As a matter of fact, after replacing aging pumps with high-efficiency pumps, POSCO was able to achieve significant energy cost reductions. POSCO's successful adoption of high-efficiency pumps piqued the interest of other industries. Hyosung soon began receiving requests from semiconductor companies and display manufacturers to replace their aging pumps. Hyosung Goodsprings carefully listened to the voices of such customers and developed a tailored high-efficiency pump replacement service in which the company conducts an analysis of the costs involved in purchasing, operations, maintenance, repair, and disposal of the pumps, and then proposes a customized replacement plan to the customer. Hyosung Goodsprings also spares no effort when it comes to developing new products for saving more energy. The sensorless in-line pump that it developed recently automatically controls the number of rotations of the pump, so that the right flow rate and lift level could be provided without the need for a pressure or a flow sensor. With this pump the stability of the whole system can be maintained, resulting in energy savings of up to 75%. Well-intentioned efforts to revitalize local economies Hyosung Goodsprings has focused on improving its technological competency and has been contributing to the localization of products that the country had long had to import from overseas. It has also contributed to the growth of South Korea's pump industry through its global business. Now, it intends to steadily grow its business of manufacturing pumps that save energy costs in response to the worldwide pro-environmental movement and South Korea’s efforts to export its nuclear reactor technologies.
2023-04-07