AFCONS Infrastructure Ltd. completes first-of-its-kind Ghazipur underpass separator project 1-day before June 30 deadline

 

ü      Use of balance cantilever bridge builder technique for the 1^st time-ever in a Delhi flyover

 

ü     The unique feature of project  that 1^st underpass in Delhi to have dedicated tracks for non-motorised vehicles and pedestrian

    

 

Mumbai ,  June 29, 2010: AFCONS Infrastructure Ltd. (AFCONS), the infrastructure arm of Shapoorji Pallonji Group, has completed the 3-Level Grade Separator project at Crossing of NH 24 & Road No 56 at Ghazipur , Delhi-92, one day before the deadline of June 30, 2010. The construction of the PSC slab was carried out using the balance cantilever bridge builder technique, which has been implemented for the first time ever in a Delhi flyover. This is the first time that an underpass in Delhi that there is a dedicated cyclist, pedestrian and non-motorised track, which differentiates itself from all the others. The middle path has been left free for two way vehicular movements.

 

The Maximum length of Single Span of Carriage way is 75m & width 15.2m is also done first time in Delhi Flyover with this technique and record time cycle of 6 days was achieved during the complete construction of segments of 3m each on both sides in progression. The main flyover of the Grade Separator at Ghazipur, from Ghaziabad to Nizamuddin Bridge consists of total 14 Span out of 6 Span is done with bridge building technique.

 

Mr. Sanjay Kumar Singh, Project Manager, Afcons Infrastructure Limited., said, “To make commutting hassle-free, the unique project has been implemented by using the bridge building technique for the first-time ever in a Delhi flyover and was also completed one day before the deadline of June, 30, 2010. For the first time, there are dedicated lanes for rickshaws and bicycles in addition to vehicular traffic. We have deployed innovative technology and adequate resources while ensuring   stringent safety measures during the construction of the flyover and the underpass.”

 

The cycle track has been constructed on both sides of the underpass at different level. This provision has been done keeping in mind the convenience of the cyclist and pedestrian tracking from Anand Vihar to Noida. The closed portion of the underpass has been constructed by top down construction technique; 93m x 27m roof slab of the closed portion contains 42 nos of void forms embedded. The height of the slab is 2 mtrs, which is an exception as all the other roof slab constructed in all the other underpass of Delhi are built as on average of 1.2 m Height.

 

AFCONS are involved in completion of 5 PWD Commonwealth Games Projects viz Mukarba Chowk, Rajaram Kohli Marg, IIT Gate, Ghazipur & Apsara Border flyover and 3 DMRC projects viz Jahangirpuri, Laxminagar, AMEL:C3 Cut & Cover Tunnel.

 

About Afcons Infrastructure Ltd.

 

Afcons Infrastructure Ltd. (Afcons), the flagship infrastructure, construction and civil engineering company of the Shapoorji Pallonji group, has an experience of five decades in construction industry. Its portfolio of completed projects comprises a wide variety of infrastructure projects in India. Afcons has successfully executed more than 170 structures along the Indian coastline. It has also successfully completed more than 115 bridges, flyovers, viaducts, two LNG storage tanks, underground Metro and 24 kilometers of elevated train corridors and has executed 2,700 lane kilometers of road works.

 

Afcons has also successfully completed and are currently engaged in execution of projects  through its  international firms Afcons Construction Mideast LLC(Dubai) and Afcons Infrastructure International Ltd (Mauritius) in Middle East and Africa respectively. Among the Infrastructure and the construction companies it is known to cultivate the culture of completing projects on or ahead of schedule and also holds the recognition of being a Government recognized Export house.

 

Combating bribery in US$1.5 trillion export credit market requires stronger action by agencies

Berlin, 29 June 2010

As key drivers in the economic recovery process, export credit agencies (ECAs) must strengthen their enforcement of anti-bribery measures and build on progress made in the last 10 years, according to a new report from Transparency International (TI), the global anti-corruption organisation.

The global economic crisis and subsequent credit crunch have shown the importance of export credit agencies, which underwrote more than US $1.5 trillion in transactions in 2008, contributing to the recovery. In 2009, the Group of 20 committed US$250 billion to ECAs and multilateral development banks to spur economic activity.

The OECD introduced mandatory anti-bribery policies 10 years ago and adopted detailed measures in 2006. Now most ECAs have formal anti-bribery policies in place, but the TI report, Export Credit Agencies Anti-Bribery Practices 2010, which surveyed 14 export credit agencies from 13 OECD countries, found significant differences in implementation and approaches.

“Good progress has been made at many export credit agencies. While there is still much work to be done, we now have plenty of best practice examples that should be replicated across the world,” said Marcela Rozo, Programme Manager, Public Contracting at TI.

The TI report identifies key areas for improvement, highlighting good practices that should be replicated by others. These include:

• A more formal, structured approach for advancing anti-bribery commitments, including designating senior management oversight of implementation
• Training ECA staff on anti-bribery policy and how to implement it;
• Stepped-up outreach to the private sector and practical support for exporter anti-bribery efforts;
• Requiring companies whose exports they support to have internal programmes for preventing bribery
• Strengthening due diligence review practices

“Proper staff training, meaningful due diligence and effective management controls help to prevent and detect bribery, which in turn ensures that both exporting and importing countries get the most value for their money,” said Rozo.

Governments should use all possible opportunities to publicly report on their ECA’s anti-corruption efforts.

###

Transparency International is the global civil society organisation leading the fight against corruption.

Note:
The TI report contains findings and illustrative practices for 14 export credit agencies from: Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Norway, Slovakia, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. The report builds and expands on the OECD’s annual survey on Measures Taken to Combat Bribery in Officially Supported Export Credits (2009). TI will issue benchmark recommendations based on this report and will monitor progress through a follow-up survey.

World-First for Linc Energy with Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trial

Linc Energy (ASX:LNC) (OTCQX:LNCGY), the world leader in Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) technology, and AFC Energy (LSE:AFC), the world’s leading developer of low-cost alkaline fuel cells, have successfully trialled hydrogen fuel cell technology to produce electricity at Linc Energy’s Chinchilla Demonstration Facility in Queensland.

Linc Energy’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Peter Bond said his company’s exclusive agreement with UK-based AFC Energy for application with UCG and the delivery of an Alpha Unit Hydrogen Fuel Cell to the Chinchilla facility had been completed.

“This is a major innovation and the first time that a hydrogen fuel cell has been successfully trialled with UCG,” said Bond. “It represents a huge step towards the worldwide opportunity of combining UCG and alkaline fuels cells as a breakthrough technology for creating the cleanest possible power generation from coal.”

Initial testing with the hydrogen fuel cell unit at Linc Energy’s Chinchilla Demonstration Facility was performed following successful trials at AFC UK facilities of mock syngas of comparative composition to that generated at the Linc Energy facility.

The trial demonstrated the successful ability to generate clean electricity from alkaline hydrogen fuel cell technology from syngas derived from UCG operations. “What is so remarkable about this trial is that the fuel cell configuration was able to produce reliable and efficient clean electricity from a much lower percentage hydrogen content gas than other fuel cells require,” said Bond.

 

“This effectively demonstrates that combining the AFC Fuel Cell technology with hydrogen from Linc Energy’s syngas produced from the world-class UCG at Chinchilla is a feasible route to achieve the ultimate in clean electricity from stranded, sub-economic coal, of which there is an abundance in the world.”

This will unlock energy resources and provide energy security to nations in an environmentally sustainable and proficient manner “When combined with our world the purified hydrogen as part of the synthesis gas clean operations, the hydrogen fuel cell is expected to produce even better results,” said Bond.

Green Rock Energy to partner with Cygnet Capital Pty Ltd

 

Green Rock Energy (Green Rock or the Company) is pleased to announce it has entered into funding arrangements with stockbroking and corporate advisory firm Cygnet Capital Pty Ltd (Cygnet) on the following terms:

 

·         Cygnet will lead a Placement of 70 million ordinary shares to raise a total of $1.05 million at 1.5 cents per share split across two tranches; and

·         Cygnet will underwrite a non-renounceable Rights Issue of shares to shareholders on a one-for-three basis at 1.5 cents per share to raise approximately $1.6 million.

Green Rock’s Managing Director Richard Beresford said “We selected Cygnet after talking with some of their other clients who valued highly their active and cooperative approach and their incentive to grow the Company by becoming significant shareholders themselves. We are looking forward to the partnership with Cygnet to develop and commercialise Green Rock’s geothermal business and also to explore new energy opportunities that can add strength and value for our shareholders”.

 

The first tranche of the Placement (30 million shares) will be issued with the Company’s existing 15% capacity, and the second tranche (40 million shares) will be subject to shareholder approval at a meeting to be convened.

 

Upon completion of the Placement it is intended that the Rights Issue will occur shortly afterwards with subscribers to the Placement entitled to participate in the Rights Issue. The timetable for the Rights Issue including the record date for shareholder eligibility will be notified in a further announcement. In regard to these funding arrangements an Appendix 3B will be lodged at the same time as this announcement. New capital raised will be applied towards existing geothermal assets and reviewing new opportunities in the  energy sector which draw on the existing skill set of the Board and Management.

 

Cygnet will be granted 25 million options exercisable at 2 cents per share, expiring on 30 June 2013, on completion of the Rights Issue as part of their fee structure.  All capital raised by Cygnet will attract a 6% capital raising fee.

IMF Executive Board Completes Second and Third Reviews Under Stand-By Arrangement with Sri Lanka and Approves US$407.8 Million Disbursement

June 28, 2010

The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) today completed the second and third reviews of Sri Lanka's economic performance under a program supported by a Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). The completion of the reviews enables the immediate disbursement of an amount equivalent to SDR 275.6 million (about US$407.8 million), bringing total disbursements under the arrangement to an amount equivalent to SDR 689.0 million (about US$1,019.4 million).

The Executive Board also approved a request by the Sri Lankan authorities for a one-year extension of the SBA and accordingly a rephasing of the future disbursements into seven equal amounts of SDR 137.8 million (about US$203.9 million) in light of the recent delay in the program.

The SBA was approved on July 24, 2009  for an amount equivalent to SDR 1,653.6 million (about US$ 2,446.7 million) or 400 percent of Sri Lanka's quota.

Following the Executive Board's discussion on Sri Lanka, Mr. Naoyuki Shinohara, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, stated:

“Overall economic conditions in Sri Lanka are improving and the economy is likely to show strong growth this year. Inflation remains subdued and average inflation for the year as a whole is expected to remain in the single digits. External balances are strong, remittance inflows continue at a high rate, tourism prospects are strengthening rapidly, and gross reserves are at comfortable levels.

“Monetary conditions are stable. Interest rates have declined and credit growth has shown signs of recovering. The central bank’s policy stance remains appropriate, although there may be need to tighten it if credit and inflationary pressures pick up sharply. The central bank has intervened in the foreign exchange market to rebuild reserves, and has allowed the exchange rate to trade within a recently widened, although still narrow band.

“Financial sector reform is in line with the program and has substantially addressed the regulatory weaknesses. The authorities’ reform agenda has been broadened to include the introduction of a deposit insurance scheme, regulation of pension funds, and steps to deepen capital markets.

“Despite the weaker-than-programmed 2009 fiscal performance, the government’s 2010 budget proposal, if carried out, would significantly address past fiscal slippages, mainly through comprehensive tax reforms and sizeable cuts in recurrent spending. At the same time, the budget would allow for much needed reconstruction-related infrastructure investment, while protecting the society’s most vulnerable and addressing the humanitarian needs of those adversely affected by the conflict.

“The authorities’ efforts to reform trade and excise taxes and the Board of Investment’s tax concession regime are a signal that they recognize the importance of a broader tax base and higher revenue in achieving the program’s original goals of fundamental and sustainable reduction of the deficit and the public debt. These efforts should be followed by important steps to permanently reform tax concessions and broaden the VAT and income tax bases to be introduced as part of the 2011 budget.

“To promote private investment and growth, the authorities plan to formulate a national investment strategy, which will include reforms aimed at reducing the currently high cost of doing business in Sri Lanka,” Mr. Shinohara stated.

180 quenching cycles in 24 hours

ThyssenKrupp MillServices & Systems to build a new coke quencher for HKM

ThyssenKrupp MillServices & Systems GmbH, Oberhausen, Germany, has been awarded a contract by Hüttenwerke Krupp Mannesmann (HKM), Duisburg, to build and supply a new coke quencher to replace the one presently in use. The contract covers the complete engineering revamp, a newly engineered undercarriage, platforms, hydraulics and electric cab including equipment. The existing structures will be taken into account when designing the new equipment. Other elements of the quencher include the drive system, the subframe, coke receptacle with water cooling unit and internal/external flaps. Included in the scope of the contract are transport, assembly, and on-site acceptance.
At the Duisburg-Huckingen steel mill the coke quencher transports the glowing coke from the oven to the quenching tower and from there to the coke ramp. The fully automated unit must withstand temperatures of over 1,000 °C and be able to maneuver with up to 5 mm precision. With unit loads of around 40 t, the machine is capable of 180 quenching cycles in 24 hours.
Once the individual parts of the total plant weighing around 240 t have been delivered by ship and heavy-haulage vehicles, the coke quencher will then be assembled at the mill. Commissioning is scheduled for May 2011.

ThyssenKrupp MillServices & Systems is a highly capable engineering services provider with special expertise in the metal producing and metalworking industries as well as in other sectors involving complex production processes. The product portfolio embraces the entire value-adding chain: from slag management via in-plant logistics and materials handling to in-production support and maintenance, packaging and project business. The advantage for customers: an all-in single-source service concept. In all these areas the Company provides round-the-clock availability and high standards in terms of occupational safety and environmental protection, backed by internationally certified safety and quality standards.

 

Realtors to professionalize for Growth

Two day National Convention being held at Chennai

                                                                                                                           28.06.10, Chennai : Realtors, who play a very significant role in the growth of the economy, particularly in the Real Estate sector have jointly decided to introduce best  International practices and raise operational standards.  To get this moving the  Second  Annual Convention of the National Association of Realtors – India 2010  (NAR –India 2010 ) will  be held at Chennai on  16^th & 17^th July  2010 at The Radisson Resort Temple Bay, Mamallapuram.  Chennai.  The convention is hosted by  Chennai Real Estate Agents Association. Registration can be done at www.creaa.in and www.narindia.com . Mr. GRK Reddy, Chairman, Marg Construction is the Key Note Speaker. He will give an insight on “ Marketing an Integrated Township”.  Realtors contribute crores of rupees  to the Government by way of Taxes etc.. This is apart from the value transacted directly by land, registration etc..

Addressing the media persons here, Mr. C. Suresh Reddy Chairman, National Association of Realtors – India 2010  said, “ With the arrival of MNC’s & NRI’s coming to set up shop in India, the demand for quality and professionalism at the grass root level  has gone up dramatically. The company’s want thorough professionalism backed by clear understanding of rules and regulations in any given city. This is what the convention will discuss thread bare. Chennai Real Estate Agents Association is registered  body and  is affiliated  to NAR ( USA) and the International Consortium of Real Estate Associations ( ICREA). NAR India has 10 Chapters and over 1000 members as of date. The members are pledged to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. The formation of NAR India is a landmark by itself because India and the laws that governs real estate are different in each city therefore it is imperative for realtors particularly who operate in different locations to understand the nuances and the rules in each States.

Giving more details on Convention Mr. Jayant  Hemdev, Co- Chairman, NAR India 2010 said, “ The convention will present opportunity for all in the real estate sector, including realtors, developers &  representatives of allied industries – Valuers, Surveyors, Architects,  etc..  to interact and update themselves on the latest developments. We are expecting more than 500 delegates from all over the country  and  abroad to attend the convention. The convention will present an ideal opportunity for networking, learning and building partnership and cultivate new business alliances.

He further added that the various topics on the Real Estate industry will be discussed during the two days convention will be Residential, Commercial, Retail, Warehousing, logistics, Opportunities and challenges in the real estate sector, legal aspects of transactions, FDI Funding and Ethics  will be discussed. There will also be  presentations of case studies of successful real estate development and marketing.

There will be a  special session on  “ Marketing Real Estate for Profit” addressed by Mr. Marcus Wally, who is an international expert on the subject.  This session will help in acquiring  marketing knowledge and focused strategies.  Some of the eminent speakers are Mr. Ajit Chordia, MD, Olympia Tech Park, Mr. T. Chitty Babu, MD, Akshaya Homes, Mr. Prakash Challa, MD, SSDPL, Mr. Abhijit Malkani, MD, Real Team, Mr. Shakir Ahmed, MD, ETA Star Property,  Mr. Ramesh, Sr. VP, City SEZ, Mr. Hari Aiyer, Chairman & MD, Old Lane, Mr. Irfan Razack, Chairman& MD, Prestige Group, Mr. Pradeep Jain, Chairman, Parsvnath, Mr. R. Senthi, Dua Associates and others.”

"The role of a real estate consultant has evolved considerably over the last few years and today more than ever before, clients are reaching out more for our advice, acting on our recommendations, involving us in more strategic issues at an early stage and respecting us." Ramesh Nair, Managing Director - Chennai & Hyderabad, Jones Lang LaSalle Meghraj.

According to Mr. Abdur Ravoof, President Elect NAR –India, “The objectives  of NAR – India are to streamline and promote the real estate profession in India to achieve transparency, accountability, fair dealing and ethical practices for overall good governance and customer satisfaction in the industry. NAR –India  has been set up to service and ensure consumer satisfaction, thereby establishing credibility in the industry and facilitating profitability for practitioners. India has several thousands of realtors  or brokers operating in over 35 metropolitan cities. They represent interests of large corporations on the one side and domestic consumers on the other.

 

Siemens highlights recent R&D developments at Singapore International Water Week: Energy reduction key focus

Since Siemens Water Technologies opened its global R&D center in Singapore in 2007, the company has been developing innovative technologies and processes that will help customers meet their water management challenges. At Singapore International Water Week (SIWW), held June 28-July 2, Siemens will highlight recent technological developments, including: low-energy desalination technology; a waste-to-energy sludge reduction wastewater treatment process and a membrane bioreactor (MBR) testing facility for validating new, innovative MBR design parameters. Presenting the EcoRight MBR system, Siemens will show a wastewater treatment and reuse technology co-developed with Aramco Overseas Company B.V.

A heavyweight at sea: Siemens equips Chinese heavy lift carrier

Siemens Industry Solutions has received an order from Zhejiang Shara-Ever Business Co. Ltd. to supply the electrical propulsion equipment for a semi-submersible heavy lift carrier with a loading capacity of 38,000 dwt (dead weight tons). This includes the diesel-electric propulsion package for medium voltage (MV) and low voltage (LV) drives as well as the power management and automation systems. The order is worth several million Euros. The vessel will be built at the Chinese shipyard Zhejiang Bandao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., Zhoushan, and is due to enter service at the end of 2011.

Siemens expands water services business in Southeast Asia

Siemens Water Technologies will expand its water treatment services and products business in Southeast Asia. The expansion will focus on aftermarket services and parts for the power, chemical processing, life sciences, and food industries, in addition to, launching the mobile water treatment business into the region. This is the second major expansion of the company’s global services organization in the last two years. In November 2008, the company established a mobile water treatment hub in the Middle East.

Siemens commissions MBR testing facility at Changi Water Reclamation Plant in Singapore Full-scale testing to focus on increased energy savings, operational efficiency

Siemens Water Technologies in Singapore and the PUB, Singapore’s national water agency, are collaborating on a membrane bioreactor (MBR) testing facility at PUB’s Changi Water Reclamation Plant. The recently commissioned 1.0 million liter/day (250,000 gpd) MBR system treats domestic wastewater at the Changi plant, which is part of the first phase of the Singapore Deep Tunnel Sewerage System (DTSS) project. The test facility will allow Siemens’ R&D personnel to validate new, innovative design parameters quickly, and under real conditions.

Founder & National President of all India Tribal Unity& Development Council is pleased to announce that the issue related to Environment and Global Warming has been raised by the United Nations in the interest of the entire mankind and the steps taken in this direction. The entire national are actively moving in this directions. In the same manner The Supreme Court of India has also seriously given landmark judgments in issues related with Environment & Global Warming.

 

            In spite of the bitter fact, Govt. of Gujarat, Maharashtra and likewise Central Govt. have different in their say and deeds. And the patient citizens are spectators to this. Recently in the presence of Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohansingh and Cabinet Minister Pawan Bansal, Cabinet Minister of Gujarat Narendra Modi, along with Water Supply Minister Narottam Patel and Cabinet Minister of Maharashtra  Ashok Chauhan with the help of National Water Development Agency (NWDA), Pasr-Tapi-Narmada link project, Daman-Ganga – Pinjal link project and Par-Auranga River, and pinjal lake which falls in Maharashtrs State, likewise Ambika-Purna and Daman Ganga including 5 rivers. The river link project report (DPR) has been ready and MOU. Has been signed and stamped.

 

A above National Perspective plan, has decided to transport water to region of water scarcity from the adjoining rivers. However, the regions of South Gujarat which has forest cover will be destroyed if this project is approved. The Dist. of Tapi, Dist. of Dang and Dist. Valsad , Dadranagar Haveli and forest area adjoining regions of Mahrasjtra & South Gujarat also will be destroyed. Still Gujarat Govt. is playing water politics by constructing 6 major dams and thereby destroying this valuable forest. Because of which in the coming years there will arise several major issue related with Rain and Global Warming the national Highway No.15 of Dang Dist. will be affected thereby making it isolated completely and hindering transportation facility. If these 6 dams are constructed then the cultivable land, bank of rivers, ancient religious places. Along with numerous village and 3 lacs tribals will have to migrate to other places, which  is very serious matter, however it is a conspiracy against human kind.

 

All India Tribal Unity & Development Council Ekam has latched this conspiracy brought it is to the notice of the common man , administrators and Guj Govt. Maharashtra Govt. of Central Govt., this destruction and challenging an agitation at a national level in a democracy way. As a part of this agitation a rally and dharna and had be stepped in Tapi Dist. memorandum submitted  to the dist. collector of Tapi dist. on 29^th May 2010, to raise our voice.

 

Continuing in this direction to protect the forest and environment on 7/6/2010 a rally and dharna had been staged in Dang Dist. to open the deaf ears of the administration. A memorandum has been submitted to the dist. collector of Dang Dist.

 

In spite of constant struggle and the start of agitation in a democratic way the collectors and DSP of Dang and Tapi Dist. have started to harass the organizers of these rallies and the tribals in order to please the CM of Gujarat, The DSP of Dang Dist has crossed all limits. After rally was over, on 17/6/2010 in front of Vaghai Police Station he arranged a public court and made undue use of his power to harass the tribals before 22/6/2010 . The outpost constable of Kalibal Police Station, Dang Dist. Pullik was sent to the villages. On the same day the DSP of Dang Gautam Parmar, CPI and PSI took the Govt. van spread terror, organized a seminar. They threatened the tribals and the organizers of the Council to protect against construction of dam. They also threatened them to charge them & being naxalaist and Maoist and in prison them. In this manner they have misused the power of their uniform.

 

The sanadi adhikari of Dang have manipulated the issues and so the organizers of All India Tribal Unity & Development Council have been harassed, and so they have avoided the entire issue. Also under this direction of CM in order to please him, working as the coin of his hand, we request that collectors and DSP of both these districts should be suspended and arrested and Police Complain should be launched against them. So that there is respect for the Indians law and order in the eyes of Govt. officers. Otherwise, the council intimates that it will organize exclusive programmers in the coming days

 

Nowadays, because of the harassment of the tribal in the various districts of South Gujarat the tribal council has organized a mass rally on the 5/7/2010. Tribal will lie on the road and will stage a dharna in front of the Collector Office of Tapi Sit. And also organize a seminar they will also take up an indefinite hunger strike. Through this program they will demand resignation of the CM of Gujarat State along with this it will demand to abort the plan for construction of dam and also invite attention for a police case on the dist. administrators.

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                Yours Faithfully,

                                                                                                Samson C. Christian

Founder & National President

All India Tribal Unity & Development Council

ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe: Breakthrough for tailored tempering

New technology makes crash relevant parts light and safe

The tailored tempering process, developed on the basis of hot forming technology and patented by ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe, has made its industrial breakthrough. ThyssenKrupp Umformtechnik GmbH, a subsidiary of the Duisburg-based steel producer, has received an order from a German auto manufacturer to produce B-pillars for more than 100,000 cars annually by tailored tempering. The safety-relevant components are to be used in a compact car. ThyssenKrupp Umformtechnik, a manufacturer of car body and chassis components, developed the process to industrial maturity.

Use of hot forming in car manufacture is currently on the increase. The process permits weight savings of up to 30 percent in car components. Hot forming uses special manganese-boron steels. The sheet material is heated to 880 - 950 degrees Celsius, then formed into a component and cooled rapidly in the die. This produces components with strengths of up to 1,500 Megapascals (MPa)- These strengths are significantly higher than those produced even with the strongest steels used for cold stamping. The components are lighter because the high strength of the material means they can be designed with thinner walls and without additional reinforcements.

While conventional hot forming only allows production of components with the same strength throughout, tailored tempering produces parts which are not only very strong but also able to yield in specific areas. These properties are needed in crash-relevant components for instance, which have to protect vehicle occupants and absorb impact energy in a controlled way. The B-pillar, for example: This component, a vertical structural member extending from the door sill to the roof frame, has to be able to yield in the lower third to absorb crash energy. The upper part has to stabilize the passenger cell and to protect the occupants in a side impact. With the process patented by ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe, parts with differing local strength and elongation properties can be produced in a single step from a homogeneous steel sheet.

This is made possible by a newly developed die with flexible heating. The targeted heating of specific zones of the die gives the finished component elongation properties exactly where they are needed. Because the heated blank cools more slowly in these zones, the steel hardens less. The technology is highly cost-efficient because it eliminates several process steps.

The ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe hot forming process offers both precision and flexibility. Depending on sheet thickness, the area of transition between hard and soft zones is extremely narrow - just 15 - 60 millimeters - and this level of accuracy is reproducible. This means that the properties at every point of the finished component can be accurately predicted

Rio Tinto launches its Operations Centre as a key part of its vision for the ‘Mine of the Future’

Rio Tinto has announced the opening of its new Operations Centre, a key part of the ‘Mine of the Future’, in Perth, Western Australia today.

The high-technology, purpose-built Operations Centre, located alongside Perth’s domestic airport, was opened by the Western Australian Premier, the Hon. Colin Barnett MLA. After six months’ ramping up to full capacity, the Operations Centre is now the primary control centre for Rio Tinto’s vast network of mines, rail systems, infrastructure facilities and port operations in the Pilbara.

The Operations Centre features 200 controllers and schedulers and more than 230 technical planning and support staff, using cutting-edge networks that ensure all Pilbara operations up to 1,500 kilometres away are not only controlled from Perth, but can be performed with the maximum efficiency.

“Two and a half years ago Rio Tinto announced that it would press ahead with plans to create the ‘Mine of the Future’ to build on the technology advantage we had established over our peers,” said Sam Walsh, Rio Tinto chief executive Iron Ore and Australia. 

“Since then we have faced an astonishing array of challenges, including the global financial crisis, but we did not waver in our commitment. This Operations Centre is fundamental to our vision of the Pilbara as a single, integrated ‘one mine’ logistics system.

“We are already seeing the advantages this investment delivers. We can now operate our Pilbara iron ore operations above nameplate capacity, redefining the limits of what was considered possible. And these benefits flow directly to our bottom line.

“There is no other mining operation anywhere in the world attempting this on this scale. Our driverless trucks, remotely operated drill and blasting, automated train systems and remote train loading functions are just the start of a revolution that is transforming the way we extract value from our resources, and will result in a far better, safer industry than could have been imagined even a decade ago.”

It will assist Rio Tinto not only retain workers, but enable them to do far more complex and valuable work than traditional mining practices would allow - with undoubted benefits not only to Rio Tinto and its people, but the wider West Australian community.

The revolution underway at the Operations Centre has ramifications far beyond the resources sector, with the technology and innovation being developed and applied able to support and improve service delivery across the community.


About Rio Tinto
 
Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

Rio Tinto's business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa.

NIGER – EXTENSION OF PERMIT EXPIRY DATES

 

NGM Resources Limited (ASX: NGM) is pleased to announce it has been officially awarded an extension of time for its three exploration permits in Niger.

 

Indo Energy Limited, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary and holder of the permits, was recently officially advised by the Minister of Mines and Energy for Niger, the Honourable Souleymane Abba Mamadou, that all Company permits would be extended by twenty seven months from their current expiry date August 2010 to December 2012.

 

Background

 

The Company was officially awarded its permits in August 2007 for an initial period of three years. In December 2007 the Niger Government declared mise en garde (“state of alert”) in the Arlit-Agadez region due to local separatist activity. At this time the Company declared force majeure but also attempted to commence field work on two occasions in 2008 before safely recommencing full field activities in May 2009. The mise en garde was lifted in November 2009 and the Niger Government commenced a review of those Companies which had continued working or attempted to work during the mise en garde period to assess an equitable extension period for the permits.

 

Extension Details

 

The extension grants the Company a further twenty seven months beyond the initial term, now making the expiry date of all three permits December 2012. In practical terms the Company is currently in month seven of its first year commitment and past expenditure in all permits is now meeting up to year two commitments, meaning the Company is well ahead of its expenditure requirements.

 

The Company thanks the Government and citizens of Niger for their confidence and can assure them of a continued commitment to exploration of the Company’s permits.

 

Current Drilling

 

The Company advises the current drilling contract term of 4,000 metres has been extended, subject to rig availability and weather, to further test mineralisation at one of the Company’s northern prospects. Initial results are expected to be released within two weeks.

Mechel OAO Announces Establishing Its Representative Office in Kemerovo City

   

Kemerovo, Russia – June 24, 2010 – Mechel OAO (NYSE: MTL), one of the leading Russian mining and metals companies, announces establishing its official representative office in Kemerovo city.

The registration procedure of Mechel OAO’s representative office in Kemerovo city was completed on June 11, 2010. The legal address of the representative office is: 650036, Russian Federation, Kemerovo city, Lenin Prospekt, bld. 90/4.

Konstantin Anatolievich Panfilov, Mechel OAO’s Executive Vice President for Kemerovo region, was appointed the Head of the representative office.

The representative office’s functions will include: establishing and maintenance of contacts with government authorities and business community of Kemerovo region, representation of Mechel group’s interests, assistance to the Mechel group’s plants in their operations, strengthening cooperation with Mechel’s partners and establishing new relations to ensure expansion of the group’s activities.

The new office will also provide actual data on the current market trends and advise Mechel’s management on tenders and auctions held in the region.

The office would allow improving management of strategically important assets of Mechel group located in Kemerovo region and let the company be more flexible in the changing market environment.

The following Mechel’s subsidiaries operate in Kemerovo region: Southern Kuzbass Coal Company OAO (one of Mechel’s mining segment assets), Southern Kuzbass Power Plant OAO (a part of Mechel’s power segment) and Kuzbass Power Sales Company OAO (power distributing company as a Guaranteeing Supplier – also a part of Mechel’s power segment).

 

Mechel is one of the leading Russian companies. Its business includes four segments: mining, steel, ferroalloy and power. Mechel unites producers of coal, iron ore concentrate, nickel, steel, ferrochrome, ferrosilicon, rolled products, hardware, heat and electric power. Mechel products are marketed domestically and internationally.

Chinese steel supplies will remain competitive despite VAT rebate cut

China’s Ministry of Finance has announced that the VAT tax rebates on exports of more than 50 finished steel products will be removed from 15 July. Steel Business Briefing believes that for European buyers, Chinese supplies will remain very competitive; some traders and producers may also look for ways to circumvent the increases in costs.

Among the items to face non-rebated charges are hot rolled sheet and strip, pickled coils, narrow strip, plates, and sections.

Given the overcapacity in China’s steel industry, Rafael Halpin, China Analyst at SBB in Shanghai, comments that “Whilst the new policy will certainly have a negative impact on Chinese exports of steel to Asia, there is little for European steelmakers to immediately celebrate”.

Research by Steel Business Briefing Research & Consultancy, shows that export margins of Chinese HRC to Europe, will remain highly competitive. Following the removal of the 9% rebate currently available for hot rolled coil, export margins will fall by $56/t, and at current prices, margins to North and South Europe will be down to $180/t and $118/t respectively. Export margins above $100/t can be considered competitive, and in the past have still led to growth in export levels to these markets.

Many producers are also expected to circumvent the new regulations by adding boron. This will allow them to continue to claim a 9% rebate, comments Roger Manser, SBB’s managing director.

Export margins are calculated by SBB as the difference between Chinese domestic HRC prices adjusted for transport to port, handling charges and export taxes, and domestic HRC prices in key export markets.

HRC export margins Source: SBB Research
	With 9% rebate	Without 9% rebate
N Europe	236	180
S Europe	174	118
E Asia	39	-17

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About SBB:

Steel Business Briefing Ltd (SBB) was formed in London in 2001 by a small group of steel professionals. Its philosophy was, and still is, to serve the global steel business with quality news, prices, research and events. SBB now has six offices around the world in key steel areas, and publishes every day in 8 languages. We have over 150 members of staff, are read by over 95,000 people daily, and continue to grow rapidly.

Forecasting the production of crude steel is a critical tool for anyone in the industry and with SBB’s new Crude Steel Forecaster you can analyse the statistics of crude steel production for over 100 countries worldwide up till 2020. No other forecast is so encompassing. The SBB Forecaster - Crude Steel provides 20 years of data with country-by-country breakdown for all regions of the world including: the Americas, Asia, Europe, CIS, Middle East, Africa and Oceania.

Modernization of a world record holder: Siemens to renovate blast furnace 1 for ArcelorMittal Tubarão

Steelmaker ArcelorMittal Tubarão, has commissioned Siemens VAI Metals Technologies to renovate blast furnace 1 at its Tubarão Works in Brazil. In use for over 26 years, this makes it the world's longest serving blast furnace to date. Siemens will dismantle and rebuild within a shutdown period of only 80 days. The modernization project is worth over ten million euros.

Sumitomo Metals' Corporate Research & Development Laboratories (Amagasaki city) Enhance Capabilities as Urban-Type Research Base through Facility Renewal 

Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. (Sumitomo Metals) has decided to renew the facilities of its Corporate Research & Development Laboratories at Amagasaki city and the construction work has been started today. The main project of the renewal is to build a new research building and a new laboratory for the purpose of enhancing the technological capabilities of these laboratories as an urban-type research base.

The first floor of the new research building will use the world's strongest structural steel materials that Sumitomo Metals has developed (product name: SSS1000) for the first time in the world, to ensure high seismic capacity.

1.Outline of the renewal
The Corporate Research & Development Laboratories (Amagasaki city) are located in the center of the Kansai region. They function as an urban-type research base with easy access for Sumitomo Metals' customers, and are carrying out joint research and development programs with many customers.
The aims of the renewal project, which will entail the construction of a new research building and a new laboratory, are to enhance the laboratories' capabilities as an urban-type research base, promote technological development, and ultimately raise customer satisfaction.

(1)New research building:

•

From the second floor to the fourth floor, an expansive pillar-free open space office of 2,300m2 (23m x 100m), with two indoor staircases that connect the floors. The new offices will encourage researchers, who are assigned to different products or technical areas, to share the space, interact, and actively communicate with each other. This should lead to the enhancement of intellectual productivity.

•

Researchers who are currently dispersed among small, old buildings will be consolidated into this new research building.

(2)New laboratory:

•	A new laboratory will be constructed adjacent to the new research building. A connecting bridge will provide researchers with greater convenience and mobility.

2.Outline of new buildings

(1)	Major construction:
	New research building (5 floors above ground; gross floor area of 20,377m2) New laboratory (4 floors above ground; gross floor area of 5,633m2)
(2)	Investment :	10 billion yen
(3)	Construction :	From June 2010 to May 2012
(4)	Structure:
	The new research building will use the "SSS1000" for the first time in the world. This product is the world's strongest structural steel material that Sumitomo Metals has developed jointly with Osaka University, Kyoto Institute of Technology, NIKKEN SEKKEI Ltd., and KATAYAMA STRATECH Corp. By intensively installing the "SSS1000" and a vibration control device (product name: Steel Unbuckling Brace "SUB"), on the first floor of the building, the "SUB" will absorb most of the seismic energy while pillars made of the "SSS1000" swing sinuously at the time of an earthquake. In addition, we will use our unique building materials such as a new-structure steel pipe pile installed by the rotary penetration method (product name: GEO-WING PILE™ II) and lightweight welded H-beams (product name: SMart BEAM™) for this construction.
(5)	Energy saving:
	The new laboratory will use double-skin facades (two layers of glass for the outer walls), a cooling system utilizing outside air, lighting control, and other methods, with the aim of achieving 30% energy savings when compared to conventional highly-functional office buildings.
(6)	Design and supervision:	NIKKEN SEKKEI Ltd.
(7)	Construction:	Shimizu Corporation

IFGL Bio Ceramics launches BioGraft HABG Active,new generation composite bio active material for Periodontists

                                                 

 

Kolkata : 24^th June 2010 : IFGL Bio Ceramics Ltd has recently launched BioGraft HABG Active Granules manufactured as per technology developed by Biomedical Technology Wing of Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum. This Product is a unique Synthetic Bone Graft based on Hydroxyapatite and Bio Active Calcium Phosphosilicate Glass materials and is ideal for dental applications particularly for periodontal osseous defect reconstruction. This new generation composite bio active material made through patented ‘Sol-Gel’ synthesis method, regenerates bones faster than Hydroxyapatite Ceramic and resorts slower than pure Bio Active Glass products and is available in the particle sizes of 150 to 700 microns with internal pores  size range of 100 to 200 microns in 0.5 cc, 1 cc and 2 cc packs. BioGraft HABG Active is safe and bio-compatible and bone regenerative capacity of BioGraft HABG Active is comparable to the best products available globally for periodontal reconstruction surgery and is efficacious and affordable treatment option now available in India.

Dealing with extortion and solicitation:New expanded training toolkit for companies launched 

Berlin/Geneva/New York/Paris, 23 June 2010

Bribery and extortion impede both fair and open trade – vital for a healthy global economy, and efforts to curb corruption. Companies determined to counter the problem now have a new tool: the expanded edition of Resisting Extortion and Solicitation in International Transactions (RESIST), a practical toolkit to help companies train employees to respond appropriately to a variety of solicitations.

“While governments must pass and implement anti-bribery legislation, companies must protect their reputations and long-term investments by ensuring their employees are equipped to resist solicitation and extortion. This tool can help them to do that,” said Susan Côté-Freeman, Private Sector Programme Manager at Transparency International (TI), one of the four organisations that developed the tool.

Comprising 22 real-life scenarios, RESIST is a joint initiative of TI, the International Chamber of Commerce, the UN Global Compact and the World Economic Forum Partnering Against Corruption Initiative (PACI). The toolkit, which is available online free of charge, was released during a meeting of the United Nations 10th Principle Working Group, part of the UN Global Compact. The Global Compact is the world’s largest voluntary corporate citizenship initiative.

This expanded edition of RESIST includes 15 new scenarios that companies and organizations could be faced with during the implementation phase of a project. It includes, for example, advice on what to do when a bribe is demanded for the release of perishable goods at customs, and on ways of dealing with a tax inspector requesting a kickback against a tax discharge.

The second instalment of RESIST builds on the initial 2009 edition, which set out seven solicitation scenarios in the procurement stage of a project, and it significantly expands the generic recommendations. It is a user-friendly tool for small, medium or large enterprises to complement their compliance programmes. Any company exposed to solicitation risks will find the toolkit a valuable resource to stimulate open internal discussions on how to face dilemmas.

“RESIST is the only anti-bribery training toolkit developed by companies for companies and sponsored by the four global anti-corruption initiatives working on the supply side of the issue of fighting corruption,” said Iohann Le Frapper, who chaired phase two of the RESIST initiative.

RESIST is the latest of a series of close collaborations between the four groups. Other projects include a joint publication making the business case for fighting corruption and organising a letter from chief executives of some of the world’s biggest companies to the UN Secretary General calling on governments to enforce the UN Convention against Corruption.

TI works to reduce corruption by advocating for the effective enforcement of anti-bribery laws and supporting prevention through the development of dedicated anti-bribery tools and approaches for enterprises.

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Transparency International is the global civil society organisation leading the fight against corruption.

G8, G20: A “Business as Unusual” Approach Must be Adopted to Meet the First Millennium Development Goal of Halving Hunger

 

By Shenggen Fan

Director General, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)

 

Global banking regulation, the European credit crisis, and sovereign debt burdens are likely to dominate the G8 and G20 meetings in Canada this weekend. Yet, five years after G8 leaders promised at Gleneagles to increase development assistance and one year after they promised to advance global food security at their summit in L’Aquila, the number of poor and hungry people is increasing. We are moving further away from the world community’s first Millennium Development Goal of halving the percentage of hungry people between 1990 and 2015.

 

In 2009, when the number of hungry people in the world stood at 1.02 billion, we were confronted with the need to reduce that number by 73 million people a year by 2015. It is now 2010 and the goal appears to be slipping away. Yet it is a modest one that would still leave some 600 million people deprived of food.

 

The objective of cutting hunger in half can still be achieved, but business as usual will not be enough. What is needed is “business as unusual.” The elements of such an approach to tackling world hunger are as follows:

Invest in Two Core Pillars: Agriculture and Social Protection

The first step in reducing poverty and hunger in developing countries is to invest in agriculture and rural development. Scaled-up investments in social protection that focus on nutrition and health are also crucial.  More importantly, policymakers should increase investments in productive safety net programs that support the poorest and hungriest households and increase their productive capacity.

Bring in New Players

New actors in global development—the private sector, philanthropic organizations, and, more importantly, emerging economies—have important roles to play in reducing hunger in developing countries. The private sector can provide effective and sustainable investment and innovation to help in the fight against hunger. Private companies should be given the right incentives and a favorable operating environment. Emerging economies are playing a growing role in trade and investment, and in providing development assistance. They need to be fully integrated into the global food security agenda.

Adopt a Country-Led, Bottom-Up Approach

Effective, efficient, and sustainable policies that are well adapted to the local context can help countries maximize the impact of the global agenda and tap external development assistance. Successful reforms also need to be local in nature, with poor people acting as a driving force in the development process. At the same time, some issues—like climate change, trade, and control of disease—must be addressed at the global level. The task for individual countries is to digest and integrate these issues in developing their own strategies at the country level.

Design Policies Using Evidence and Experiments

Pilot projects and experiments have the potential to improve policymaking by giving decisionmakers information about what works before policies are implemented across the board. Experimentation can improve the success rate of reforms as successful pilot projects are scaled up and unsuccessful policy options are eliminated. To succeed with this approach, policymakers need to allow impartial monitoring of experiments and rapidly transform the lessons learned into large-scale reforms.

Walk the Walk
Decisionmakers at the global, regional, and national levels have made commitments to policies and investments for enhancing food security, but they have often failed to meet those commitments. To effectively enhance food security, financial commitments must be supported with strong institutions and governance at all levels and monitored in a timely and transparent fashion.

Scaling Up “Business as Unusual”

Some aspects of this “business as unusual” approach have already been applied successfully. They need to be scaled up and extended to new countries in order to have a real impact on global hunger. On a larger scale, the global food governance system itself needs to be reformed to work better. Also, although global and national actors have distinct roles to play, it is important that they work together, combining their efforts to fight poverty and hunger. A stronger system of mutual accountability between the two groups would help keep progress on track.

 

 # # #

The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) seeks sustainable solutions for ending hunger and poverty. IFPRI is one of 15 centers supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research, an alliance of 64 governments, private foundations, and international and regional organizations.  

NSEL launches “Cash” segment in Commodities for the first time in India

 

Kolkata, June 23, 2010:  Today, National Spot Exchange(NSEL) announced its plan to launch 15 commodities under E-Series for developing a full-fledged “cash” or “investment” segment in commodities. This is happening for the first time in the history of commodity market in India.

 

Commodity Exchanges are generally known for providing a hedge instrument for protection against price risks. But, they do not provide an instrument for investment; where retail investors can park their funds with a view to enjoy price appreciation. In order to cater to this need, it is need of the market to develop and launch investment products in commodities.  This will give birth to a niche segment of commodity market investors, who wish to diversify their portfolio by parking part of their surplus funds  into commodities.

 

Under E-Series, NSEL has already launched “E- Gold” and “E- Silver”, which have attained high degree of success and popularity among retail investors. Now, NSEL is all set to launch contracts such as E-Copper, E-Zinc, etc.  which will expand its product basket under E-Series.

 

The product is designed to reach the masses across the country. Investors can now trade and invest in gold and silver in smaller denominations of 1 gram and 100 gram respectively, in demat form, just like shares.

An individual interested in trading in E-Series product has to open client account with a member of NSEL and a beneficiary account with a DP empanelled with the Exchange. This is required for holding E-Series units in demat form. Thereafter, he can buy and sell E-Series products either by placing orders through the member on the phone or by trading on line. In case of buy transaction, the investor is required to pay the purchase value before T + 2. The units are credited into his account on T + 2. In case of sale, he has to transfer units from his beneficiary account to his broker’s pool account, while the broker transfers sale proceeds to him on T + 2 basis.

The investors are allowed to do intraday trading, but all positions outstanding at end of day must result into delivery. In case of non delivery, the Exchange conducts buying in auction to cover short deliveries and selling out auction to cover buyer’s position. But, in both cases, the Exchange guarantees delivery to the buyer and payment to the seller.

 

The product is suitable for retail investors, house hold and the industry as a whole. The main advantages of NSEL’s E-Gold and E-Silver are transparent pricing, seamless trading, easy entry and exit, lower holding cost and pan India accessibility. Investors can invest in E Gold and E-Silver without worry for daily MTM pay in/ payout and roll over issues as applicable in derivative market.  Liquidity, i.e. any time buying and selling of commodity is possible with hassle free low cost transaction in physical commodity. Also, there is no risk of commodity custody/theft. The storage charges of holding gold in demat form is Rs.0.60/unit/Month.

 

The Exchange has empanelled eminent players of the stock market as its Depository participants such as Eureka, Microsec, Ashika, Globe Capital, Religare, Karvy, Goldmine, IL&FS, Monarch capital, SMC, SSD securities, SHCIL etc.  Clients, who have opened beneficiary accounts with any of the empanelled DPs are eligible to participate in these contracts from Mondays through Fridays from 10:00 am to 11:30 pm.  Physical delivery of gold / silver is possible, at any point of time, in the form of gold coins/ bars from any of the specified centers i.e.  Ahmadabad, Mumbai, Delhi and expanding further to other states.

 

Commenting on the development Shri Anjani Sinha, MD & CEO, NSEL said, “The significant growth of NSEL within a short span of one year reflects the trust imposed by the stakeholders and the strength of NSEL offering, E-series being one of them.   E-Gold and E-Silver are the unique investment products, which will create a revolution in terms of development of cash segment in commodities. A small investor willing to invest Rs. 2000 or an HNI, willing to invest Rs. 5 lacs, can buy gold or silver at the same price because of the transparent, efficient and affordable platform.  We are excited about launching new products and further expanding our base to every nook and corner of the country in the months to come. This has created a new business opportunity for stock brokers, who were otherwise worried about dwindling investors’ volume in stock market. Investors, who are worried about stock market volatility are also finding it more suitable to diversify a part of their portfolio into commodities through such investment products.”

 

About National Spot Exchange Limited

National Spot Exchange Limited (NSEL) jointly promoted by Financial Technologies India Limited (FTIL) and National Agricultural Co-operative Marketing Federation of India Limited (NAFED), is a national level institutionalized, electronic, and transparent spot exchange. NSEL is poised to transform the rural economy by way of improving marketing efficiency for agricultural produce. It is a state-of the-art organized and structured market place providing facilities for risk fee and hassle free procurement and disposal of farm produce. The Exchange provides customized solutions to various problems faced by the farmers, traders, processors, exporters, importers, arbitrageurs, investors and the general mass relating to agricultural marketing, storage, warehouse receipt financing, etc.