Hexion Inc., Columbus, and Hüttenes-Albertus Chemische Werke GmbH, Dusseldorf, Germany, announced that Hexion has sold its 50% interest in HA-International LLC, a joint venture serving the North American metalcasting industry, to its joint venture partner HA-USA Inc., an entity controlled by HA.
HAI is a supplier of metalcasting resin systems, resin coated sand for shell molding and refractory coatings for North America. HAI will continue a strategic sourcing arrangement with Hexion’s Louisville, Kentucky site.
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“This transaction represents an important step for HA and further strengthens our foundry leadership position in the U.S.,” said Dr. Carsten Kuhlgatz, president and CEO,Hüttenes-Albertus Chemische Werke GmbH. “The acquisition of Hexion’s interest in the joint venture demonstrates our long-term commitment as a solutions provider that is well positioned to deliver sustainable customer value within the (metalcasting) industry, while broadening our product portfolio and providing innovative technologies to our customers globally.”
Hexion and HAI have entered into long term toll agreements for the supply of resins and special coated sands whereas HAI will provide special coated sands and Hexion will provide resins.
“We have operated HAI in close partnership with HA for many years and have jointly developed that business into an industry leader in the U.S.,” said Craig O. Morrison, chairman, president and CEO, Hexion. “Although we have sold our ownership stake in HAI to our joint venture partner, our relationship with HAI will continue in all material respects as we focus on serving HAI customers without interruption. We look forward to serving HAI as a large and valued customer.”