CUMI mulls options of relocating South African subsidiary plant

The plant has started producing a new product - Z450. It has taken a longer time to find acceptance in market than the management had expected

Murugappa Group manufacturing firm Carborundum Universal (CUMI) may look at options, including relocating the plant under its South African subsidiary — Foskor Zirconia — if the business does not turn around by the end of the current quarter. 

The plant produces monoclinic- and calcia-stabilised zirconia, with fumed silica as a by-product. The by- product could be used in various applications, including ceramic colours, abrasives, chemicals and refractory products for the glass and steel industries. 

The plant has started producing a new product — Z450 — a synthetic material for various applications, including high temperature insulation. The product has taken a longer time