In an interview with Dr Jörn Seevers, CEO of KE FISCHER, the world leader in cord cutting technology, we delve into the company’s strategic growth and its vision for the future. The discussion explores the significance of the recent acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech (K-TT) and its impact on KE FISCHER’s position in the market. We also gain insights into the crucial role of cord cutting lines in tyre production, the challenges they address and the opportunities it presents. Seevers sheds light on how KE FISCHER navigates the evolving regulatory environment and outlines the company’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines, emphasising innovation, quality, and environmental sustainability.

How has the business developed after the acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech?

The acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech, s.r.o. (K-TT) in Slovakia by KE FISCHER marks a significant step towards strategic growth and expansion in the tyre manufacturing industry. KE FISCHER has outlined ambitious plans for leveraging the acquisition to explore organic and inorganic growth opportunities. The collaboration aims to enhance the engineering and production capabilities. Additionally, KE FISCHER is focusing on expanding its service business model, which includes remote maintenance services for global customers.

The acquisition is expected to result in an even broader product range and customer base, combining KE FISCHER’s existing expertise in cutting and splicing technology with K-TT’s high-performance extrusion machinery. We expect this strategic move will foster accelerated growth, enhance customer relations and consolidate its presence in both segments of the tyre manufacturing industry.

In a strategic move to bolster its position within the tyre manufacturing sector, KE FISCHER is expanding its machinery portfolio and developing innovative equipment through a collaborative partnership with K-TT. This synergy will unlock new opportunities for both companies, fostering technological advancements, service offerings and overall industry growth.

Can you elaborate on the importance of cord cutting lines in producing various types of tyres?

Cord cutting lines play a critical role in producing various types of tyres, impacting quality and performance characteristics. The lines are so-called bottle-neck machinery and are essential for keeping the production of the whole tyre plant running.

Cord cutting lines are designed to cut the fabric or steel cord materials that reinforce tyres with high precision. This precision is essential for the tyre’s structural integrity and quality. Accurate cuts lead to efficient material usage, reducing waste and improving the overall cost-effectiveness of the production process.

How rubberised cord material is cut and laid out in the tyre can significantly affect its performance characteristics, including strength, flexibility and wear resistance. For example, the angle at which the rubberised cord material is cut and positioned can influence the tyre’s handling, stability and traction. Precise cord cutting technology optimises these angles, enhancing the tyre’s performance for its intended use, whether for passenger vehicles, trucks, bicycles, agricultural vehicles or performance racing vehicles.

Modern cord cutting lines are often integrated with quality control technologies, such as cameras and sensors, to detect material flaws or errors in the cutting process. This integration helps ensure that only materials that meet strict quality standards are used in tyre production, leading to tyres of superior quality.

Different types of tyres, such as radial versus bias tyres, require different cord arrangements and materials. Radial tyres, for instance, have cords that run perpendicular to the direction of travel, offering improved handling and wear characteristics. Bias tyres have cords that run at an angle to the direction of travel, providing a comfortable ride at lower speeds. Cord cutting lines must be versatile enough to handle different materials such as fabric, steel and others, and cutting specifications to produce a wide range of tyre types.

Automated cord cutting lines in tyre manufacturing enhance production efficiency and consistency and increase machine availability. Automation allows for the rapid processing of materials with minimal human intervention, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing production speed. This efficiency is critical in meeting the high demand for tyres across various sectors, including automotive, aviation and industrial machinery.

Efficient cord cutting lines also contribute to sustainability efforts in tyre manufacturing. Manufacturers can minimise their environmental footprint by optimising material usage and reducing waste. Additionally, precise cutting reduces the need for excess raw materials, contributing to more sustainable production practices.

In summary, cord cutting lines are essential in tyre manufacturing, influencing everything from the efficient use of materials and production costs to the final product’s performance, quality and environmental impact. These lines’ precision, automation and versatility enable manufacturers to produce tyres that meet diverse requirements, ensuring safety, reliability and performance.

Thanks to operating in a niche, KE FISCHER is in constant contact with tyre manufacturers, and thus, it can be aware quickly of any possible challenge.

Each type of tyre requires a specific material, e.g. fragile material for bicycle tyres, or extremely thick material for OTR tyres.

What specific challenges in the tyre production industry led KE FISCHER to specialise in cord cutting lines?

The first cutting line for the tyre industry was built in the 1970s when a German-based tyre manufacturer asked KE FISCHER to investigate this field because of KE FISCHER’s immense experience and excellent know-how in cutting sheet metal products.

After this first line was successfully put into production, the door was now open for this new field of activity. KE FISCHER gained more expertise in producing cord cutting lines for the tyre production industry, which is a response to several specific challenges and needs within the sector. Integrating cord cutting seamlessly into the tyre manufacturing process improves efficiency and reduces production times. Specialised lines can be designed to fit into existing production lines, enhancing workflow and productivity.

The tyre industry constantly evolves with new materials, designs and specifications. Specialising in cord cutting lines allows KE FISCHER to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, offering solutions that meet the latest industry standards and requirements. Tyre manufacturers require customised solutions to meet specific production needs. A company specialising in cord cutting lines can offer more flexible and tailored solutions than a generalist machinery supplier, addressing unique challenges tyre producers face. The industry faces strict safety and environmental regulations. Specialised cord cutting lines can help manufacturers comply with these regulations by ensuring precise cuts that reduce waste and incorporating features that minimise ecological impact.

KE FISCHER’s focus on developing specialised cord cutting lines reflects a strategic response to these challenges, positioning the company as a critical partner for tyre manufacturers seeking to improve their production processes, enhance product quality and achieve greater operational efficiency.

 Where does the company find more opportunities among the applications – from bicycles and cars to off-the-road and aeroplanes?

KE FISCHER specialises in providing cutting lines for the tyre industry, focusing on various applications from two-wheel vehicles, light vehicles and trucks to OTR tyre manufacturers. The company is a world leader in developing and manufacturing steel and textile cord cutting lines used for all kinds of tyres. This indicates that KE FISCHER is actively involved in supplying equipment essential for the production of tyres across a broad spectrum of vehicle types, including bicycles and cars.

The opportunities for KE FISCHER, among its various applications, depend on the demand for tyres in each sector. Given the company’s focus on providing cutting lines for tyre manufacturers, sectors with high growth in tyre demand would present more opportunities. The automotive and OTR sectors are traditionally large consumers of tyres, driven by both consumer demand and industrial applications. The bicycle sector has also grown, especially with the rise in eco-friendly transportation and urban cycling.

How does KE FISCHER navigate and adapt to changes in the tyre production industry’s regulatory environment?

KE FISCHER adapts to changes in the regulatory environment through several key strategies. KE FISCHER focuses on continuous research and development to ensure its machinery meets the latest environmental and safety standards, following EU safety regulations for all lines delivered. This includes investing in new technologies that reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency and incorporate safer, more sustainable materials.

By working closely with tyre manufacturers, KE FISCHER can understand the specific challenges and requirements these companies face due to regulatory changes. This collaboration helps in designing and modifying equipment that aids manufacturers in meeting new standards. The company’s global footprint allows it to gain insights into trends. This international perspective is of great importance for anticipating future shifts and adapting its offerings accordingly.

These strategies enable KE FISCHER not only to navigate but also to thrive amidst the evolving regulatory landscape of the tyre production industry.

What is KE FISCHER’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines, and how does it plan to stay ahead in the market?

KE FISCHER envisions its future in the cord cutting lines market with a strong focus on customer needs, innovation, quality and environmental sustainability. The company aims to maintain its position as a global leader by continuing to develop cutting-edge machinery that meets the evolving needs of the tyre industry. With a rich history of success and a commitment to research and development, KE FISCHER emphasises the importance of adapting to the continuous improvements in tyre material mixes, which requires staying up-to-date on material behaviour and adjusting cutting lines accordingly. This adaptability ensures the highest quality and efficiency of its products.

KE FISCHER’s strategic plan includes a commitment to development and design, aiming to remain the market leader by continuously developing improved and future-oriented solutions for cord cutting lines. The company leverages its extensive experience and track record of over 900 lines installed globally to enhance its technological leadership and quality standards.

KE FISCHER’s cutting lines and K-TT extrusion lines are equipped with the latest innovative technologies from suppliers and include in-house developed Industry 4.0 solutions.

In summary, KE FISCHER’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines revolves around innovation, quality, sustainability and customer-centric solutions. By continuously improving its technology and services, KE FISCHER’s explicit goal is to stay ahead in the market and meet the dynamic needs of the tyre manufacturing industry.

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Kraton Corporation, a leading global producer of speciality polymers and high-value bio-based chemicals derived from pine wood pulping co-products, has named Sangwoo Ryu as its new Chief Executive Officer. Ryu possesses over 25 years of leadership in finance and operations within international markets. He is currently the CEO of Cariflex Pte Ltd, a former Kraton spin-off now under DL Chemical, where he initially served as Chief Financial Officer starting in February 2020. He assumed the Cariflex CEO role in April 2025 following the promotion of its former CEO, Prakash Kolluri, to President of Kraton's Polymer business.

Ryu’s deep expertise in financial strategy, investment controls and operational planning is expected to strengthen Kraton’s standing as a reliable leader in global Pine Chemical and Polymers markets. In his new position, he will collaborate with Kraton’s Executive Leadership, Board of Directors and Cariflex Leadership to guide strategic decisions and operational excellence, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustained growth and organisational stability.

Ryu said, “I want to express my gratitude towards the members of the Board of Directors and the Kraton Leadership Team for their unwavering dedication to Kraton’s success. I’m looking forward to leading Kraton into the next era of excellence, building upon the strong foundations and principles set forth in our vision and values.”

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As part of its strategic growth into Central Europe, FORNNAX TECHNOLOGY, a global leader in recycling equipment manufacturing, has established a new sales partnership in Germany. The company has appointed industry veteran Dieter Jerschl as its representative for the region to drive the promotion and implementation of its recycling systems. Jerschl’s extensive expertise, built over two decades with prominent firms like BHS, Eldan and Vecoplan, encompasses a deep understanding of diverse waste streams such as tyre, cable, municipal solid waste and e-waste.

This collaboration, initially targeting Germany, Austria and adjacent countries, is designed to be flexible and scalable. Its primary aim is to cultivate a strong project pipeline and solidify FORNNAX’s regional footprint. The partnership extends beyond sales to include comprehensive technical support, with Jerschl’s team providing vital value-added services like installation, maintenance and spare parts assistance. This local service framework is intended to ensure efficient project execution, minimise operational downtime and elevate customer satisfaction.

By leveraging Jerschl’s profound market insight and established networks, FORNNAX seeks to accelerate the adoption of its high-performance shredding and pre-processing technologies. The move underscores the company’s global strategy of embedding local expertise within key markets, which it deems crucial for developing technically sound solutions tailored to specific regional waste challenges. This initiative reinforces FORNNAX’s dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship, advancing its mission to deliver sustainable recycling solutions worldwide.

Jerschl said, “I’ve known FORNNAX for over a decade and have followed their growth closely. What attracted me to this collaboration is their state-of-the-art technology; it is powerful, sustainable, and economically viable. There is great potential to introduce FORNNAX’s innovative systems to more markets across Europe, and I am excited to be part of that journey. We are committed to increasing market awareness and establishing new reference projects across the region. My goal is not only to generate business but to lay the foundation for long-term growth. Ideally, we aim to establish a dedicated FORNNAX legal entity or operational site in Germany over the next five to 10 years.”

Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO, FORNNAX, said, “We see tremendous potential in the Central European market. Partnering with someone as experienced and well established as Jerschl gives us a strong foothold and allows us to better serve our customers. This marks a major milestone in our efforts to promote reliable, efficient and future-ready recycling solutions globally.”

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Dr Gerard Nijman of KraussMaffei Extrusion has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the prestigious Fernley H. Banbury Award, one of the rubber industry’s highest international honours, presented by the Rubber Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS). This award annually recognises outstanding scientific and technological contributions to the field.

The award commemorates the inventor of the internal mixer and highlights sustainable innovations in production technology, instrumentation, process control and the development of processing methods for rubber and similar materials. Dr Nijman’s career exemplifies such innovation, having significantly advanced rubber rheology, pioneered new mixing and multiplex extrusion technologies and modernised the production of silica compounds for the tyre industry.

His work has effectively bridged the gap between scientific research and industrial application. Notably, in the 1990s at Vredestein, he introduced novel mixing technologies and multiplex extrusion to tyre manufacturing. He also contributed to pioneering processes for silica compound processing, foundational to technologies like Michelin’s ‘Green Tyre’. Furthermore, his rheology-based designs for extruder screws and flow channels have helped shape enduring industrial standards.

Dr Nijman, who joined KraussMaffei Extrusion in 2017, brings decades of expertise from previous roles at Apollo Tyres Ltd and Vredestein Banden BV. His ongoing collaborations with the German Institute for Rubber Technology (DIK) and the University of Twente have also profoundly influenced his approach. KraussMaffei Extrusion itself is globally recognised for its tyre technology, building on longstanding Berstorff expertise to deliver advanced extrusion solutions for treads, sidewalls, innerliners and other components, as well as high-performance multiplex and calender systems.

The award acknowledges not only his specific technical achievements but also his distinguished career and lasting impact on rubber processing. The official presentation will be held in September 2026 during the Global Polymer Summit in Louisville, Kentucky, US.

Dr Nijman said, “It is a great honour for me to receive the Fernley H. Banbury Award. This recognition confirms the importance of the close connection between research and industrial practice in rubber processing and motivates me to continue to drive forward innovative solutions for our industry.”

Ralf Benack, Managing Director, KraussMaffei Extrusion, said, "We warmly congratulate Dr Nijman on this outstanding award. With his in-depth knowledge, many years of experience and tireless dedication, he has had a decisive influence on the rubber and tyre industry and has further developed our technologies in a targeted manner. This recognition is more than deserved. We are very proud to have Dr Nijman in our team!"

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Michelin has appointed James Dimmock as its new Commercial Communications Manager for the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Based at the company's Stoke-on-Trent headquarters, he will report to the Northern European Communications team. In this capacity, Dimmock will oversee all commercial communications, including public relations, social media and influencer partnerships.

His mandate involves crafting the brand's commercial narrative, fostering stronger connections with media and content creators and producing innovative digital content to support the brand's growth. He brings more than two decades of extensive experience with Michelin to the role, having held various senior marketing and communications positions both internationally and domestically. His most recent role was as Social Media and Influencer Manager. He will now lead these efforts locally while integrating with the broader communications team.

John Howe, Managing Director, Michelin UK, said, “James has already made a significant contribution to Michelin communications activity in the UK & ROI. His deep understanding of our business and products, combined with his strategic and creative approach, makes him ideally placed to lead our commercial communications as we continue to evolve our brand.”

Dimmock said, “I am excited to be taking on this new role at Michelin. It is a privilege to continue building on the work we have already achieved and to help drive the next phase of our commercial communications strategy across the UK & ROI.”

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