OUTOKUMPU OYJ
PRESS RELEASE
September 17, 2014 at 2.15 pm EET
Outokumpu today showcased its high-quality offering in surface finishes in simultaneous events in Germany and China and demonstrated why stainless steel is used increasingly in demanding building and infrastructure projects.
At both events, Outokumpu exhibited three of its latest products; 2R 2 – a highly reflective, smooth finish in high volume production; GritLine – a bright surface with improved properties through rolling; and Laser – a new surface finish with random pattern that depicts a homogeneous surface, ideal for large façade elements.
Speaking to an audience of architects, designers and material fabricators in Dillenburg, Germany, Mika Seitovirta, CEO of Outokumpu said: “Stainless steel is the preferred material for modern building and construction due to its high mechanical strength, resistance to corrosion, aesthetics and cost efficiency. It performs well in extreme climate conditions and needs little maintenance.”
In both Dillenburg and Shanghai, China, Outokumpu displayed its broad range of surface finishes, many of which adorn some of the world’s most famous buildings, from the Chrysler building and One World Trade Center in New York, to the new headquarters of the Ping An Finance Center in Shenzhen, China. On September 15, Outokumpu announced the delivery of over 800 tonnes of special surface stainless steel for the creation of the facades of Baosteel’s head offices in Shanghai (48,000 m 2 of façade) and Guangzhou, China.
Said Seitovirta: “These landmark buildings are more than just beautiful architectural masterpieces. They also tell about the advantages of high-quality stainless steel and underscore Outokumpu’s position as one of the world’s leading innovators in advanced materials.”
The Chrysler building is a great example of low maintenance. It was built in 1930, and except of few panels which have been replaced, the stainless steel roof is original and has been manually cleaned only twice. For the One World Trade Center, Outokumpu designed a brand new surface with random patterns to fit in with the critical surface demands of the architect. The Marina Bay Helix bridge in Singapore features high-strength and corrosion-resistant duplex to ensure low maintenance and continuing beauty in hot and humid maritime conditions.
In addition to the low lifetime cost of stainless, Seitovirta stressed the importance of technical expertise and support for customers: “The requirements for cost-efficient, high-performing, sustainable buildings are growing and those stainless steel suppliers that can offer technical expertise, innovation and end-to-end project support will lead the pack. Outokumpu is one of the suppliers; one which takes building and infrastructure to new heights.”
For more information:
Corporate Communications, + 358 50 346 6556
Outokumpu Group
Outokumpu i s a global leader in stainless steel. We create advanced materials that are efficient, long lasting and recyclable – thus building a world that lasts forever. Stainless steel, invented a century ago, is an ideal material to create lasting solutions in demanding applications from cutlery to bridges, energy and medical equipment: it is 100% recyclable, corrosion-resistant, maintenance-free, durable and hygienic. Outokumpu employs more than 12 000 professionals in more than 30 countries, with headquarters in Espoo, Finland and shares listed in the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki. www.outokumpu.com
