Sundaram Clayton launches magnesium castings project

Auto component maker Sundaram Clayton, a part of the TVS Group, has launched a pilot project for magnesium die-casting products at its Padi plant near Chennai.

So far, the Rs1,000-crore company has focused on die-castings using aluminium. Magnesium-based products are lighter than other metals, and thus have a higher place in the value chain over aluminium and iron.

''Passenger cars, especially high-end models, are increasingly looking at becoming lighter as this reduces emission. We are exploring opportunities in magnesium,'' group president and chief executive C N Prasad told a press conference in Chennai on Tuesday.

The trial runs will focus on medium-sized parts such as casings and covers. The required magnesium is being imported from Australia and Europe.

The castings are expected to be out for commercial use in 2013, with initial production of 1,000 tonnes a year. ''Negotiations are on with customers [car makers],'' Prasad said.

Sundaram Clayton, which clocked a turnover of Rs820 crore last year, expects to cross the Rs 1,000-crore mark this year. Despite the sluggish market conditions, the company expects to do well.