Germany-based braking system manufacturer Knorr-Bremse has acquired the rail transport portion of brake pad manufacturer TMD Friction from Japan’s Nisshinbo Holdings as part of its plan to expand its friction materials services.
TMD Friction develops and manufactures friction materials for almost all railway applications at its two European locations in Coswig, Germany, and Manchester, UK.
The acquisition will strengthen Knorr-Bremse’s position as a systems supplier, while the acquired expertise will be channelled into customer-oriented product development and optimisation.
Japan’s Nisshinbo is a manufacturer of friction materials for automobiles, commercial and rail vehicles.
Knorr-Bremse Executive Board chairman Klaus Deller said: “Through the acquisition of the rail transport activities of TMD Friction, we are strengthening both our market position and our know-how in friction materials.
“This will help us further improve the braking effect, reduce noise and cut lifecycle costs.”
“Being able to develop braking systems and friction materials from start to finish will help us further improve the braking effect, reduce noise and cut lifecycle costs, benefitting our customers and the environment.”
The acquisition is part of the German firm’s long-term strategy to expand its expertise in train braking.
In 2008, the company purchased Anchor Brake Shoes, a North American locomotive and freight wagon brake shoe manufacturer.
In 2010, the German firm formed a joint venture with Icer Rail to add organic brake pads and shoes which comply with European UIC standards to its product portfolio.