Krauss Maffei AG and Toshiba Machine Co. Ltd. have signed a cooperation agreement to develop leading-edge machinery for plastics processing.
The companies said they already have started joint projects, but did not release details. First results of the new arrangement are expected later this year.
KM of Munich, Germany, and Tokyo-based Toshiba will develop machinery jointly, pooling experience in their different markets and technology segments, the companies said in a recent news release.
``It is both companies' intention to collaborate closely with each other and integrate the strengths of each company in various fields,'' the release said.
Both firms have leading positions in the injection molding machine market. KM has expertise in large hydraulic machines, while Toshiba is known for its large electric press range.
Extrusion technology and polyurethane processing technology are among Krauss Maffei's other product areas.
Toshiba also manufactures robots and compounding extruders, as well as machines for the metals industry.