Carbon firm in factory launch

FRESH from landing an aerospace wheel contract, pioneering Geelong manufacturer Carbon Revolution launched a new factory this week.
Federal Industry Minister Christopher Pyne officially opened the high-tech facility at Geelong Technology Precinct in Waurn Ponds.
The factory will build export cutting-edge carbon composite wheels for auto and aerospace manufacturers around the world.
The Independent reported last week Carbon Revolution was planning a $100 million share market listing to fund its expansion plans.
Mr Pyne said Carbon Revolution was a modern Australian success story demonstrating the power of applying research and advanced manufacturing technology to develop world-leading products.
“Carbon Revolution exports a range of products to North America, Europe and Japan and has just signed an agreement with a North American aircraft landing-gear manufacturer to develop lightweight wheels for use in aerospace,” he said.
“The company has used a $5 million grant from the Geelong Region Innovation and Investment Fund (GRIIF) to support this new $24 million facility for commercial production of one-piece carbon fibre wheels, creating new export opportunities.
Member for Corangamite Sarah Henderson said Carbon Revolution’s success meant jobs for Geelong.
“Carbon Revolution’s new manufacturing facility reflects the success of the transition of the local economy to innovative projects that create jobs and opportunities in smart manufacturing,” Ms Henderson said.
“This region is realising the benefits flowing from a strong track record of collaboration between businesses and researchers, with support from the Australian and Victorian governments, to develop Geelong as a centre for carbon fibre manufacturing.”
The $29.5m GRIIF provides co-funding support for businesses investing and creating jobs across the region. The Victorian and federal governments established the fund with support from Ford and Alcoa as part of their factory-closure commitments.