The award comes in recognition of the design and manufacture of small filament diameter glass cords which, when coated in rubber latex in a novel chemical dipping process, are uniquely oil resistant and so capable of reinforcing timing belts which run in oil.
This application significantly reduces noise and carbon dioxide emissions and increases the fuel economy of automobile engines.
“This award recognises the achievements of our R&D team and the company’s commitment to technical development and manufacturing excellence. The award also pays tribute to our marketing people who successfully brought the product to market, where it now stands as a commercial success, adding value for our customers and their clients, ” said Alistair Poole, NGF Europe managing director.
The accolade coincides with the unveiling of a £4 million High Tensile Strength Fibre Forming facility at the site, making NGF Europe the only fully integrated glass cord production factory outside of Japan.
NGF Europe supplies glass cord to timing belt manufacturers in all the major car manufacturing countries worldwide.
A subsidiary of the NSG Group of Japan, the company has 240 employees based at Lea Green on the outskirts of St Helens.