Henkel Wins 2014 Automotive News PACE Award for Pretreatment Process That Enables Increase in Aluminum Vehicle Content

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Apr 08, 2014, 08:00 ET

MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich., April 8, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of its innovative Bonderite(R) Flex Process, Henkel won the 2014 Automotive News PACE (Premier Automotive Suppliers' Contribution to Excellence) Award in the Manufacturing Process and Capital Equipment category. Henkel received the honor April 7 at a black-tie ceremony at the Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit.

Henkel won a 2014 Automotive News PACE Award on April 7, 2014 for its innovative Bonderite(R) Flex Process, which allows for dramatically higher percentages (up to 85 percent) of aluminum vehicle content. The process was implemented by Ford and Chrysler on select 2013 vehicle programs including the Ford F-150 and the Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger and Chrysler 300. This F-150 hood is treated with the Bonderite(R) Flex Process. (PRNewsFoto/Henkel) (PRNewsFoto/HENKEL)

The Bonderite(R) Flex Process – implemented by both Ford and Chrysler on select 2013 vehicle programs, including the Ford F-150 and the Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger and Chrysler 300 – allows for dramatically higher percentages of aluminum vehicle content.

Prior to this technology, the practical limit for aluminum content was only 25 percent due to coating quality, bath instability and high sludge generation. The Bonderite(R) Flex Process eliminates these barriers, allowing for a significant jump in aluminum – up to 85 percent. The process provides better corrosion protection and reduces sludge waste by two-thirds. This results in significant environmental benefits in both the manufacturing process and the finished product.

"The Flex Process is a 'game changer' in the introduction of lighter weight materials like aluminum," said Chuck Evans, Henkel Corporate Vice President, automotive group, North America. "The technology addresses inherent manufacturing challenges, while improving fuel efficiency and reducing environmental impact."

Henkel also won the Automotive News PACE Award in 2009, 2010 and 2011.

For more than 20 years, the Automotive News PACE Awards have honored superior innovation, technological advancement and business performance among automotive suppliers. This prestigious award is recognized around the world as the industry benchmark for innovation.

Henkel in North America

Henkel markets a wide range of well-known consumer and industrial brands in North America, including Dial(R) soaps, Purex(R) laundry detergents, Right Guard(R) antiperspirants, got2b(R) hair gels, and Loctite(R) adhesives. Visit www.henkelna.com for more information.

About Henkel

Henkel operates worldwide with leading brands and technologies in three business areas: Laundry & Home Care, Beauty Care and Adhesive Technologies. Founded in 1876, Henkel holds globally leading market positions both in the consumer and industrial businesses with well-known brands such as Persil, Schwarzkopf and Loctite. Henkel employs about 47,000 people and reported sales of $21.8 billion and adjusted operating profit of $3.3 billion in fiscal 2013. Henkel's preferred shares are listed in the German stock index DAX.

www.henkelna.com/press

Contact: Carrie Cioffi - Henkel
Phone: (248) 840-6879
E-mail: [email protected]

Contact: Megan Peterson - On behalf of Henkel
Phone: (248) 330-9807
E-mail: [email protected]

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SOURCE Henkel