#Composites

2021-01-28

Order-driven enhancement of SGL Carbon’s operations in Arkadelphia progresses

Arkadelphia facility of SGL Carbon © 2021 SGL Carbon

SGL Carbon currently enhances its operations in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, by introducing new production processes for fiber-based composites in order to ramp up its production. SGL Carbon was awarded a substantial contract for composite battery enclosures from a North-American automaker as announced in January 2020. The enhancement reflects an investment into the facility of approximately $4.5 million within three years and will increase the workforce at the site by 35 full-time employees.

Ramp-up of production facility for carbon composites in e-mobility

Investment of approx. $4.5 million within three years, partly supported by public funding

For the investment, the company will also receive public funding from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), the City of Arkadelphia and the Clark County. The enhancement of the Arkadelphia operations started in October 2020 and is planned to be fully operational by the end of 2021.

“Composite battery enclosures fit perfectly to the specific needs of modern e-car chassis. Thus, with the ongoing enhancement of our Arkadelphia operations, we also support the great trend towards more e-mobility in the US. In addition, our facility produces a variety of carbon and glass fiber-reinforced products for a wide range of industrial applications within the automotive and aerospace industries as well as the energy sector.”, says Steve Swanson, Vice President of Operations at SGL Composites Inc.

“For decades, SGL Carbon has served as a leading producer of unique graphite and composite materials and manufacturer of products known for their versatile industrial applications. We are happy that the company now expands further at its Arkadelphia location. The strengths of our workforce in south Arkansas, partnered with our low cost of doing business, made Arkadelphia a prime location for SGL Carbon’s new production processes. We look forward to our continued partnership with the company as it embarks on this new endeavor.”, says Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary and Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) Mike Preston.

“The Economic Development Corporation of Clark County is pleased to partner with one of our local industries to promote job creation and expansion. This announcement shows our local tax dollars play an important role in encouraging job creation in Clark County.”, says EDCCC Chairman Celya Taylor.

Arkadelphia City Manager Gary Brinkley said, “We are thrilled about the news that SGL will be ramping up its production and hiring additional employees. SGL’s corporate philosophy of partnering with their customers is the same philosophy we follow in Clark County, partnering with our industries for job retention and expansion. The soundness of the Arkadelphia workforce coupled with the quality of life we enjoy in southwest Arkansas is truly a win-win scenario for everyone.”

County Judge Troy Tucker said, “We are excited about the future expansion of SGL Carbon in Clark County and with the future possibilities of this company.”

SGL Carbon decides to restructure its Carbon Fibers business unit

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SGL Carbon evaluates strategic options for the carbon fibers and appoints Dr. Denis Hinz as new head of the business unit

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MEL Composites supports ELA Aviation with advanced composite materials

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DYNEEMA® and NP Aerospace advance personal protection for military servicewomen

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JEC World 2026 confirms its standing as the unmissable event for composites and their applications

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Cotton made in Africa partners receive top marks in independent verifications

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Bangladesh: Italian textile machinery mission stops in Dhaka and Chittagong

Technological upgrading and the transition toward higher value-added production are driving the new Italian industrial mission to Bangladesh. This year, the mission will split between the country’s two main manufacturing hubs, where Italian manufacturers will meet the leaders of the local textile supply chain in two strategic stages: July 7th in Dhaka and July 9th in Chittagong.

Yarn Expo Shenzhen 2026 closes doors, advancing sustainable and innovative sourcing in South China

Yarn Expo Shenzhen 2026 served as a strategically positioned mid-year sourcing platform for the Greater Bay Area, highlighting Shenzhen’s role in connecting regional demand, supply and innovation exchange across the textile value chain. During the three-day fair, over 20,000 visits were drawn from 74 countries and regions[1], as exhibitors and buyers engaged with new developments in greener, performance-led, and value-added yarn and fibre solutions. Held in conjunction with Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics and PH Value, the fair underscored the benefits of closer synergy and new materials across yarn, fabric and apparel platforms for the South China market.