Form 6-K
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Report of Foreign Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the months of: May and June 2007
SGL CARBON Aktiengesellschaft
(Name of registrant)
Rheingaustrasse 182
65203 Wiesbaden
Germany
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports
under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F:
Form 20-F X Form 40-F
-------
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information
contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the SEC
pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:
Yes No X
----- ---
If "Yes" is marked, indicate the file number assigned to the registrant in
connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): N/A
Exhibit Index
-------------
1. May 29, 2007 German Press Release - SGL Group signs cooperation
agreement with ESK
2. June 1, 2007 German Press Release - SGL Group to present "green
technology" at ECOTEC
3. June 4, 2007 German Press Release - SGL Group establishes joint venture
in China
4. June 12, 2007 German Press Release - SGL Carbon AG's Senior Secured
Note received Investment Grade Status from Standard & Poor's
5. June 13, 2007 German Press Release - SGL Group builds new carbon fiber
production facilities
6. June 15, 2007 German Press Release - SGL Group receives the "Prof.
Ferdinand Porsche Prize"
7. June 18, 2007 German Press Release - SGL Group Subsidiary HITCO invests
in Automated Fiber Placement System (AFP)
8. June 22, 2007 German Press Release - SGL Group ranks among Germany's
top innovators
Exhibit 1
SGL Group signs cooperation agreement with ESK
o Joint development and production of SiC heat exchangers
Wiesbaden, May 29, 2007. The SGL Group - The Carbon Company - has just signed an
agreement with the manufacturer of high-performance ceramics ESK Ceramics GmbH &
Co. KG, Kempten/Allgau, a 100% subsidiary of the US company Ceradyne Inc., to
develop and produce SiC block heat exchangers jointly for use in the chemical,
pharmaceutical, steel processing and fine chemical industry. This joint
undertaking will benefit from the material, technology and market expertise of
both companies.
Under the terms of the agreement, ESK will produce blocks made from the ceramic
material EKasic(R) silicon carbide (SSIC) for the SGL Group. The outstanding
feature of silicon carbide is its high temperature, corrosion and oxidation
resistance. Outstanding heat conductivity as well as high mechanical stability
also feature among its advantages. This means that it will be possible to use
heat exchangers from the SGL Group, Business Line Process Technology, for
industrial processes with heavily corrosive and oxidizing media as well as in
applications with high purity requirements. The aim behind this inter-company
cooperation is to expand the SGL Group's global market share in the
anti-corrosion protection segment. Heat exchangers are used to condense, cool,
heat, vaporize and absorb acids and corrosive gases.
About SGL Group - The Carbon Company
------------------------------------
The SGL Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon-based
products. It has a comprehensive portfolio ranging from carbon and graphite
products to carbon fibers and composites. SGL Group's core competencies are its
expertise in high-temperature technology as well as its applications and
engineering know-how gained over many years. These competencies enable the
Company to make full use of its broad material base. SGL Group's carbon-based
materials combine several unique properties such as electrical and thermal
conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance as well as high mechanical strength
combined with low weight. Due to the paradigm shift in the use of materials as a
result of the worldwide shortage of energy and raw materials, there is a growing
demand for SGL Group's high-performance materials and products from an
increasing number of industries. Carbon and graphite products are used whenever
other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, plastics, wood etc. fail due to
their limited properties. Products from the SGL Group are used predominantly in
the steel, aluminum, automotive, chemical and glass/ceramics industries.
However, manufacturers in the semiconductor, battery, solar/wind energy,
environmental protection, aerospace and defense industries as well as in the
nuclear energy industry also figure among the Company's customers.
SGL Group - The Carbon Company
Corporate Communications, Media Relations
Rheingaustrasse 182, D-65203 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +49 (6 11) 60 29-100, Fax: +49 (6 11) 60 29-101
E-Mail: cpc@sglcarbon.de, Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
With around 30 production sites in Europe, North America and Asia as well as a
service network covering more than 100 countries, the SGL Group is a company
with a global presence. In 2006, the Company's workforce of 5,250 generated
sales of (euro) 1.2 billion. The Company's head office is located in
Wiesbaden/Germany.
Important note:
This press release contains statements on future developments that are based on
currently available information and that involve risks and uncertainties that
could lead to actual results deviating from these forward-looking statements.
The statements on future developments are not to be understood as guarantees.
The future developments and events are dependent on a number of factors, they
include various risks and unanticipated circumstances and are based on
assumptions that may not be correct. These risks and uncertainties include, for
example, unforeseeable changes in political, economic and business conditions,
particularly in the area of electrosteel production, the competitive situation,
interest rate and currency developments, technological developments and other
risks and unanticipated circumstances. We see other risks in price developments,
unexpected developments relating to acquired and consolidated companies and in
the ongoing cost optimization programs. SGL Carbon does not intend to update
these forward-looking statements.
Your contact person:
--------------------
Corporate Communications / Press office / Stefan Wortmann
Tel.: +49 611 60 29 105 / Fax: +49 6 11 60 29 101 / Cellphone: +49 170 540 2667/
E-mail : stefan.wortmann@sglcarbon.de / Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
2
Exhibit 2
SGL Group to present "green technology" at ECOTEC
o Knowledge market for environmental technology hosted by the German Federal
Ministry for the Environment
Wiesbaden, June 1, 2007. The SGL Group - The Carbon Company - will present its
"green technology" at the knowledge market for environmental technology, ECOTEC,
hosted by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment on June 2, 2007. The
carbon and graphite products for innovative solutions for energy generation,
storage and saving in private and industrial applications that will be on
display demonstrate the Company's capabilities on the key theme of environmental
technology.
The informal gathering of the EU Environment Ministers will take place in Essen
from June 1 - 3, 2007, under the motto "Environment, Innovation, Occupation".
For this reason, the German Federal Ministry for the Environment is hosting
ECOTEC 2007 at the Zeche Zollverein. The entire range of environmental
technology will be on display: from renewable energies and energy efficiency,
recycling and water management, mobility and drive technologies to bionic, nano
and biotechnology. Proposals and presentations will provide the opportunity for
an intensive exchange of information.
The Advanced Materials Business Area of the SGL Group will be presenting two of
its products under the slogan "SGL Group - Active in Energy". One of these is
the ECOPHIT cooling ceiling which is suitable as an alternative, energy-saving
air conditioning system for the retrofitting of office buildings. The other is
the DIABON(R) calorific value heat exchanger. This extracts heat from corrosive
exhaust gases which are produced from the combustion of fossil and regenerative
fuels.
About SGL Group - The Carbon Company
------------------------------------
The SGL Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon-based
products. It has a comprehensive portfolio ranging from carbon and graphite
products to carbon fibers and composites. SGL Group's core competencies are its
expertise in high-temperature technology as well as its applications and
engineering know-how gained over many years. These competencies enable the
Company to make full use of its broad material base. SGL Group's carbon-based
materials combine several unique properties such as electrical and thermal
conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance as well as high mechanical strength
combined with low weight. Due to the paradigm shift in the use of materials as a
result of the worldwide shortage of energy and raw materials, there is a growing
demand for SGL Group's high-performance materials and products from an
increasing number of industries. Carbon and graphite products are used whenever
other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, plastics, wood etc. fail due to
their limited properties. Products from the SGL Group are used predominantly in
the steel, aluminum, automotive, chemical and glass/ceramics industries.
However, manufacturers in the semiconductor, battery, solar/wind energy,
environmental protection, aerospace and defense industries as well as in the
nuclear energy industry also figure among the Company's customers.
SGL Group - The Carbon Company
Corporate Communications, Media Relations
Rheingaustrasse 182, D-65203 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +49 (6 11) 60 29-100, Fax: +49 (6 11) 60 29-101
E-mail: cpc@sglcarbon.de, Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
With around 30 production sites in Europe, North America and Asia as well as a
service network covering more than 100 countries, the SGL Group is a company
with a global presence. In 2006, the Company's workforce of 5,250 generated
sales of (euro) 1.2 billion. The Company's head office is located in
Wiesbaden/Germany.
Important note:
This press release contains statements on future developments that are based on
currently available information and that involve risks and uncertainties that
could lead to actual results deviating from these forward-looking statements.
The statements on future developments are not to be understood as guarantees.
The future developments and events are dependent on a number of factors, they
include various risks and unanticipated circumstances and are based on
assumptions that may not be correct. These risks and uncertainties include, for
example, unforeseeable changes in political, economic and business conditions,
particularly in the area of electrosteel production, the competitive situation,
interest rate and currency developments, technological developments and other
risks and unanticipated circumstances. We see other risks in price developments,
unexpected developments relating to acquired and consolidated companies and in
the ongoing cost optimization programs. SGL Carbon does not intend to update
these forward-looking statements.
Your contact person:
--------------------
Corporate Communications / Press office / Stefan Wortmann
Tel.: +49 611 60 29 105 / Fax: +49 6 11 60 29 101 / Cellphone: +49 170 540 2667/
E-mail : stefan.wortmann@sglcarbon.de / Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
2
Exhibit 3
SGL Group establishes joint venture in China
o Production of special graphite with Shanxi Quanhai Graphite Co. Ltd.
o Joint venture majority at SGL Group
o Rapidly growing demand requires capacity expansion
Wiesbaden, June 04, 2007. The SGL Group - The Carbon Company - has just signed a
joint venture contract with the Chinese graphite producer, Shanxi Quanhai
Graphite Co. Ltd. in Shanxi/Central China, for the production of specialty
graphite in China. The agreement is pending requiring final approval by the
appropriate government bodies in China.
The SGL Group will have 75% ownership of the joint venture. The aim of this
strategic joint venture is to strengthen further the production base and market
presence for specialty graphite in the Advanced Materials division of the SGL
Group in Asia. The joint venture will considerably increase SGL Group's
specialty graphite material production capacity, in order to supply the rapidly
growing demand in industry sectors such as semi-conductors and solar technology.
In addition, the SGL Group has released further planned investment projects in
China. The capacities of the existing Shanghai machine shop can now be extended
as a facility for purifying specialty graphite for the semi-conductor and other
related industries. The extension of the machine shop in Shanghai in conjunction
with the reverse integration by the new joint venture in Shanxi is an important
strategic step to satisfy the growing demand of regional customers.
The foundation of the joint venture strategically supports the increase in
production of isostatic graphite by the SGL Group from 3,000 to 5,000 metric
tons. Following implementation of further site optimization in Morganton, USA,
the SGL Group is in a position to supply up to 18,000 metric tons of extruded
and pressed special graphite for growing market demand particularly in nuclear
technology and armoring.
The development of the new joint venture in China is a further step of the SGL
Group's Asian strategy which remains the main focus of the Company.
SGL Group - The Carbon Company
Corporate Communications, Media Relations
Rheingaustrasse 182, D-65203 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +49 (6 11) 60 29-100, Fax: +49 (6 11) 60 29-101
E-Mail: cpc@sglcarbon.de, Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
The decision of the SGL Group to establish a joint venture with the Shanxi
Quanhai Graphite Co. Ltd. is aligned with the strategic vision of the Chinese
government of "promotion of the central region in China". Above all, this is
being supported by the government with relevant assistance and improvement of
the investment environment in the Shanxi province.
About SGL Group - The Carbon Company
------------------------------------
The SGL Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon-based
products. It has a comprehensive portfolio ranging from carbon and graphite
products to carbon fibers and composites. SGL Group's core competencies are its
expertise in high-temperature technology as well as its applications and
engineering know-how gained over many years. These competencies enable the
Company to make full use of its broad material base. SGL Group's carbon-based
materials combine several unique properties such as electrical and thermal
conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance as well as high mechanical strength
combined with low weight. Due to the paradigm shift in the use of materials as a
result of the worldwide shortage of energy and raw materials, there is a growing
demand for SGL Group's high-performance materials and products from an
increasing number of industries. Carbon and graphite products are used whenever
other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, plastics, wood etc. fail due to
their limited properties. Products from the SGL Group are used predominantly in
the steel, aluminum, automotive, chemical and glass/ceramics industries.
However, manufacturers in the semiconductor, battery, solar/wind energy,
environmental protection, aerospace and defense industries as well as in the
nuclear energy industry also figure among the Company's customers.
With around 30 production sites in Europe, North America and Asia as well as a
service network covering more than 100 countries, the SGL Group is a company
with a global presence. In 2006, the Company's workforce of 5,250 generated
sales of (euro) 1.2 billion. The Company's head office is located in
Wiesbaden/Germany.
Important note:
This press release contains statements on future developments that are based on
currently available information and that involve risks and uncertainties that
could lead to actual results deviating from these forward-looking statements.
The statements on future developments are not to be understood as guarantees.
The future developments and events are dependent on a number of factors, they
include various risks and unanticipated circumstances and are based on
assumptions that may not be correct. These risks and uncertainties include, for
example, unforeseeable changes in political, economic and business conditions,
particularly in the area of electrosteel production, the competitive situation,
interest rate and currency developments, technological developments and other
risks and unanticipated circumstances. We see other risks in price developments,
unexpected developments relating to acquired and consolidated companies and in
the ongoing cost optimization programs. SGL Group does not intend to update
these forward-looking statements.
Your contact person:
--------------------
Corporate Communications / Press office / Stefan Wortmann
Tel.: +49 611 60 29 105 / Fax: +49 6 11 60 29 101 / Cellphone: +49 170 540 2667/
E-mail : stefan.wortmann@sglcarbon.de / Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
2
Exhibit 4
SGL Carbon AG's Senior Secured Note received Investment Grade Status from
Standard & Poor's
Wiesbaden, June 12, 2007. SGL Group - The Carbon Company - has just received an
upgrade from the rating agency Standard & Poor's for its (euro)200 million
senior secured notes. The rating for the senior secured notes was raised by one
notch from "BB+" to "BBB-". This is the first time that SGL Group received an
Investment Grade status for one of its financial instruments.
The rating of the SGL CARBON AG Corporate Family remains at "BB" with a stable
outlook. These upgrades will favourably impact potential future financial
undertakings of the SGL Group.
About SGL Group - The Carbon Company
------------------------------------
The SGL Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon-based
products. It has a comprehensive portfolio ranging from carbon and graphite
products to carbon fibers and composites. SGL Group's core competencies are its
expertise in high-temperature technology as well as its applications and
engineering know-how gained over many years. These competencies enable the
Company to make full use of its broad material base. SGL Group's carbon-based
materials combine several unique properties such as electrical and thermal
conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance as well as high mechanical strength
combined with low weight. Due to the paradigm shift in the use of materials as a
result of the worldwide shortage of energy and raw materials, there is a growing
demand for SGL Group's high-performance materials and products from an
increasing number of industries. Carbon and graphite products are used whenever
other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, plastics, wood etc. fail due to
their limited properties. Products from the SGL Group are used predominantly in
the steel, aluminum, automotive, chemical and glass/ceramics industries.
However, manufacturers in the semiconductor, battery, solar/wind energy,
environmental protection, aerospace and defense industries as well as in the
nuclear energy industry also figure among the Company's customers.
With around 30 production sites in Europe, North America and Asia as well as a
service network covering more than 100 countries, the SGL Group is a company
with a global presence. In 2006, the Company's workforce of 5,250 generated
sales of (euro) 1.2 billion. The Company's head office is located in
Wiesbaden/Germany.
Important note:
This press release contains statements on future developments that are based on
currently available information and that involve risks and uncertainties that
could lead to actual results deviating from these forward-looking statements.
The statements on future developments are not to be understood as guarantees.
The future developments and events are dependent on a number of factors, they
include various risks and unanticipated circumstances and are based on
assumptions that may not be correct. These risks and uncertainties include, for
example, unforeseeable changes in political, economic and business conditions,
particularly in the area of electrosteel production, the competitive situation,
interest rate and currency developments, technological developments and other
risks and unanticipated circumstances. We see other risks in price developments,
unexpected developments relating to acquired and consolidated companies and in
the ongoing cost optimization programs. SGL Carbon does not intend to update
these forward-looking statements.
Your contact person:
Corporate Communications / Press office / Stefan Wortmann
Tel.: +49 611 60 29 105 / Fax: +49 6 11 60 29 101 / Cellphone: +49 170 540 2667/
E-mail : stefan.wortmann@sglcarbon.de / Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
SGL Group - The Carbon Company
Corporate Communications, Media Relations
Rheingaustrasse 182, D-65203 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +49 (6 11) 60 29-100, Fax: +49 (6 11) 60 29-101
E-Mail: cpc@sglcarbon.de, Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
Exhibit 5
SGL Group builds new carbon fiber production facilities
o Construction of a new (euro)40 million production facility for carbon
fibers with annual capacity of 1,500 t in Scotland
o Additional carbon fiber investments planned for Germany
o Striving for leading world market position as carbon fiber supplier
for the wind industry
Wiesbaden, June 13, 2007. The SGL Group - The Carbon Company - is building a
third major production line for carbon fibers at its location in
Inverness/Scotland as part of its long-term growth strategy in its Business Unit
"Carbon Fibers & Composites". With commissioning by end of 2008, the annual
production of carbon fibers will rise to a total of 4,500 t at the Inverness
plant. Furthermore, the SGL Group is also operating a further carbon fiber
production facility in Wyoming/US with an annual capacity of around 1,000 t
together with the US company Aldila Inc.
All capacity either under construction or currently in place is largely utilized
due to long-term supply agreements with major customers until into the next
decade. In order to meet strong customer demand from the wind energy industry in
particular, the Company is also planning a carbon fiber location in Germany with
a capacity of between 3,000 and 6,000 t p.a over the next five years. As a
consequence, the SGL Group will become one of the world's leading suppliers of
carbon fibers for wind energy.
The supply of raw materials for all new capacity has been secured by the
strategic cooperation with Mitsubishi Rayon Corp. and the joint venture agreed
with Lenzing AG in March 2007, which provides for the achieved strategic
backward integration for the production of carbon fiber precursor material.
About SGL Group - The Carbon Company
------------------------------------
The SGL Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon-based
products. It has a comprehensive portfolio ranging from carbon and graphite
products to carbon fibers and composites. SGL Group's core competencies are its
expertise in high-temperature technology as well as its applications and
engineering know-how gained over many years. These competencies enable the
Company to make full use of its broad material base. SGL Group's carbon-based
materials combine several unique properties such as electrical and thermal
conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance as well as high mechanical strength
combined with low weight. Due to the paradigm shift in the use of materials as a
result of the worldwide shortage of energy and raw materials, there is a growing
demand for SGL Group's high-performance materials and products from an
increasing number of industries. Carbon and graphite products are used whenever
other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, plastics, wood etc. fail due to
their limited properties. Products from the SGL Group are used predominantly in
the steel, aluminum, automotive, chemical and glass/ceramics industries.
However, manufacturers in the semiconductor, battery, solar/wind energy,
environmental protection, aerospace and defense industries as well as in the
nuclear energy industry also figure among the Company's customers.
SGL Group - The Carbon Company
Corporate Communications, Media Relations
Rheingaustrasse 182, D-65203 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +49 (6 11) 60 29-100, Fax: +49 (6 11) 60 29-101
E-Mail: cpc@sglcarbon.de, Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
With around 30 production sites in Europe, North America and Asia as well as a
service network covering more than 100 countries, the SGL Group is a company
with a global presence. In 2006, the Company's workforce of 5,250 generated
sales of (euro) 1.2 billion. The Company's head office is located in
Wiesbaden/Germany.
Important note:
This press release contains statements on future developments that are based on
currently available information and that involve risks and uncertainties that
could lead to actual results deviating from these forward-looking statements.
The statements on future developments are not to be understood as guarantees.
The future developments and events are dependent on a number of factors, they
include various risks and unanticipated circumstances and are based on
assumptions that may not be correct. These risks and uncertainties include, for
example, unforeseeable changes in political, economic and business conditions,
particularly in the area of electrosteel production, the competitive situation,
interest rate and currency developments, technological developments and other
risks and unanticipated circumstances. We see other risks in price developments,
unexpected developments relating to acquired and consolidated companies and in
the ongoing cost optimization programs. SGL Group does not intend to update
these forward-looking statements.
Your contact person:
Corporate Communications / Press office / Stefan Wortmann
Tel.: +49 611 60 29 105 / Fax: +49 6 11 60 29 101 / Cellphone: +49 170 540 2667/
E-mail : stefan.wortmann@sglcarbon.de / Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
2
Exhibit 6
SGL Group receives the "Prof. Ferdinand Porsche Prize"
o The carbon-ceramic brake disc is besides airbag (1987), turbocharged
diesel direct injection (1991) and ABS (1981) a "pioneering invention
in the field of automotive technology" in year 2007
Wiesbaden, June 15, 2007. The SGL Group - The Carbon Company - today received
the "Prof. Ferdinand Porsche Prize" for its carbon-ceramic brake disc. The
(euro)50,000 award is granted every two years for "pioneering inventions in the
field of automotive technology". Hans-Michael Guther, Managing Director of SGL
Brakes GmbH, who was personally awarded, received the prize for his key
involvement in the brake disc-development in a ceremony at the Vienna University
of Technology.
The prize was created in 1976 by Porsche Holding, Salzburg, and Porsche AG,
Stuttgart. Until now, the prize has been awarded for other automotive
innovations such as airbag (1987), turbocharged diesel direct injection (1991)
and ABS (1981). As of today, the carbon-ceramic brake disc is also regarded as
one of the outstanding innovations in the field of automotive engineering. In
his address, Professor Bernhard Geringer of the Vienna University of Technology
described it as a "significant milestone in braking technology".
Robert Koehler, CEO of the SGL Group, said on the occasion of the award
ceremony: "In trying to reduce the weight of a chassis, development engineers at
automotive manufacturers have to fight for every gram. We provide a brake disc
that is several kilograms lighter than a conventional steel disc. This is a
revolutionary milestone in automotive engineering."
The carbon-ceramic brake disc offers more than significant weight advantages of
around 65 percent that benefit the so-called unsprung masses of a vehicle. It
also improves shock absorber response as well as handling. The perforated and
internally ventilated brake disc also develops immediate and above all constant
friction levels on deceleration. Abrasion on carbon-ceramic brake discs is
extremely low compared to metal brake discs thanks to their extreme surface
hardness. Life expectancy is correspondingly high as well as being guaranteed by
the corrosion resistance of the material.
SGL Group - The Carbon Company
Corporate Communications, Media Relations
Rheingaustrasse 182, D-65203 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +49 (6 11) 60 29-100, Fax: +49 (6 11) 60 29-101
E-Mail: cpc@sglcarbon.de, Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
The SGL Group and Porsche initially presented the brake disc as the worldwide
first of its kind at the International Automobile Fair (IAA) in Frankfurt in
1999. It was used in a series just two years later as the "Porsche Ceramic
Composite Brake" (PCCB) in the 911 GT2. Porsche now offers this brake system for
all 911 models and it is enjoying rising popularity among customers. More than
50 percent of units of the sporty 911 GT3 model series are ordered with PCCB,
while 100 percent of units of the racing version of the 911 GT3 are equipped
with PCCB. Since 2005, Audi customers have also been able to order carbon-
ceramic brake discs in A8 W12, S8 and RS4 models. The SGL Group also delivers to
the Bentley, Bugatti and Lamborghini brands.
In Meitingen, near Augsburg, the domicile of SGL Brakes GmbH, around 30,000
brake discs p.a. are currently produced in a technologically highly
sophisticated manufacturing process. Carbon brake discs must be baked in
900(degree) Celsius (1652(degree) Fahrenheit) carbonization furnaces.
Carbon-ceramic discs require an additional production step, known as
siliconization. In this process, the carbon discs are subjected to even higher
temperatures together with silicon. At around 1,700(degree) Celsius
(3092(degree) Fahrenheit) the silicon in the high-vacuum furnace reacts with the
carbon of the brake disc and carbon-fiber-reinforced silicon carbide (C/SiC) is
generated: This carbon-fiber-reinforced silicon carbide is the innovative
material for which the SGL Group was awarded the "Prof. Ferdinand Porsche
Prize". Hans-Michael Guther, who is receiving the prize today, remembers when
disc production began: "Back then we worked under laboratory conditions and
prepared the raw materials by hand. However, we were convinced of the success of
this new material and set our course in terms of production tech-nology very
early on. In 2002 we commissioned a state-of-the-art production facility and
began series production."
About SGL Group - The Carbon Company
------------------------------------
The SGL Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon-based
products. It has a comprehensive portfolio ranging from carbon and graphite
products to carbon fibers and composites. SGL Group's core competencies are its
expertise in high-temperature technology as well as its applications and
engineering know-how gained over many years. These competencies enable the
Company to make full use of its broad material base. SGL Group's carbon-based
materials combine several unique properties such as electrical and thermal
conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance as well as high mechanical strength
combined with low weight. Due to the paradigm shift in the use of materials as a
result of the worldwide shortage of energy and raw materials, there is a growing
demand for SGL Group's high-performance materials and products from an
increasing number of industries. Carbon and graphite products are used whenever
other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, plastics, wood etc. fail due to
their limited properties. Products from the SGL Group are used predominantly in
the steel, aluminum, automotive, chemical and glass/ceramics industries.
However, manufacturers in the semiconductor, battery, solar/wind energy,
environmental protection, aerospace and defense industries as well as in the
nuclear energy industry also figure among the Company's customers.
With around 30 production sites in Europe, North America and Asia as well as a
service network covering more than 100 countries, the SGL Group is a company
with a global presence. In 2006, the Company's workforce of 5,250 generated
sales of (euro) 1.2 billion. The Company's head office is located in
Wiesbaden/Germany.
2
Important note:
This press release contains statements on future developments that are based on
currently available information and that involve risks and uncertainties that
could lead to actual results deviating from these forward-looking statements.
The statements on future developments are not to be understood as guarantees.
The future developments and events are dependent on a number of factors, they
include various risks and unanticipated circumstances and are based on
assumptions that may not be correct. These risks and uncertainties include, for
example, unforeseeable changes in political, economic and business conditions,
particularly in the area of electrosteel production, the competitive situation,
interest rate and currency developments, technological developments and other
risks and unanticipated circumstances. We see other risks in price developments,
unexpected developments relating to acquired and consolidated companies and in
the ongoing cost optimization programs. SGL Group does not intend to update
these forward-looking statements.
Your contact person:
--------------------
Corporate Communications / Press office / Stefan Wortmann
Tel.: +49 611 60 29 105 / Fax: +49 6 11 60 29 101 / Cellphone: +49 170 540 2667/
E-mail : stefan.wortmann@sglcarbon.de / Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
3
Exhibit 7
SGL Group Subsidiary HITCO invests in
Automated Fiber Placement System (AFP)
o Highly Advanced Production Facility for Aircraft Composites
Los Angeles (USA) / Wiesbaden (Germany), June 18, 2007. SGL Group - The Carbon
Company - has released an important investment for its US/Los Angeles based
subsidiary HITCO Carbon Composites, Inc. based on the Group's strategy for the
Business Unit Carbon Fibers & Composites. HITCO purchased a Viper(R) 6000 Fiber
Placement System (AFP) manufactured by Cincinnati Machine. This highly advanced
automated carbon fiber composite production facility enables HITCO to
substantially increase its production capabilities for the continuously growing
demand of composites in construction and development of the aircraft industry.
The AFP investment in addition to the recently announced purchase of an
automated Tape Lay-up machine (ATL), also from Cincinnati Machine, is a further
important step for processing carbon fiber for the aircraft industry. With AFP
and ATL HITCO consequently continues its strategy to support major commercial
aviation programs. This enables the Company to produce a fully automated broad
base of high quality composite products with respective increase in
productivity. This new and highly advanced processing technology is an essential
move for production of composites compared to the traditionally mainly handmade
products.
The AFP configuration will provide two line capability enabling HITCO to better
support high-rate production programs. Parts expected to be laid-up on the AFP
include: aft fuselages, controlled aircraft surfaces, tailcones, pressure
bulkheads, and related structures. The AFP will commence operations early 2009.
"The AFP investment is part of our multi-million US$ modernization program that
will enable HITCO to become the `Best in Class Automated Tier II Supplier' to
the aerospace and defense industry," said Edward G. Carson, HITCO's Chief
Operating Officer. "In addition, we are enhancing our design and engineering
capabilities and our production facilities so that we may obtain additional
long-term production contracts with strategic Tier I aerospace manufacturers. As
we go forward we have further substantial investments planned to support an
aggressive growth strategy."
HITCO Carbon Composites, Inc. was founded in 1922 and manufactures advanced
composite materials primarily for aerospace and defense applications.
SGL Group - The Carbon Company
Corporate Communications, Media Relations
Rheingaustrasse 182, D-65203 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +49 (6 11) 60 29-100, Fax: +49 (6 11) 60 29-101
E-Mail: cpc@sglcarbon.de, Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
HITCO continues to be an innovative leader in the advancement of carbon fiber
composite technologies and continues to strategically focus within the SGL Group
on new projects for aerospace/aircraft and defense applications.
About SGL Group - The Carbon Company
------------------------------------
The SGL Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon-based
products. It has a comprehensive portfolio ranging from carbon and graphite
products to carbon fibers and composites. SGL Group's core competencies are its
expertise in high-temperature technology as well as its applications and
engineering know-how gained over many years. These competencies enable the
Company to make full use of its broad material base. SGL Group's carbon-based
materials combine several unique properties such as electrical and thermal
conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance as well as high mechanical strength
combined with low weight. Due to the paradigm shift in the use of materials as a
result of the worldwide shortage of energy and raw materials, there is a growing
demand for SGL Group's high-performance materials and products from an
increasing number of industries. Carbon and graphite products are used whenever
other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, plastics, wood etc. fail due to
their limited properties. Products from the SGL Group are used predominantly in
the steel, aluminum, automotive, chemical and glass/ceramics industries.
However, manufacturers in the semiconductor, battery, solar/wind energy,
environmental protection, aerospace and defense industries as well as in the
nuclear energy industry also figure among the Company's customers.
With around 30 production sites in Europe, North America and Asia as well as a
service network covering more than 100 countries, the SGL Group is a company
with a global presence. In 2006, the Company's workforce of 5,250 generated
sales of (euro) 1.2 billion. The Company's head office is located in
Wiesbaden/Germany.
Important note:
This press release contains statements on future developments that are based on
currently available information and that involve risks and uncertainties that
could lead to actual results deviating from these forward-looking statements.
The statements on future developments are not to be understood as guarantees.
The future developments and events are dependent on a number of factors, they
include various risks and unanticipated circumstances and are based on
assumptions that may not be correct. These risks and uncertainties include, for
example, unforeseeable changes in political, economic and business conditions,
particularly in the area of electrosteel production, the competitive situation,
interest rate and currency developments, technological developments and other
risks and unanticipated circumstances. We see other risks in price developments,
unexpected developments relating to acquired and consolidated companies and in
the ongoing cost optimization programs. SGL Group does not intend to update
these forward-looking statements.
Your contact person:
Corporate Communications / Press office / Stefan Wortmann
Tel.: +49 611 60 29 105 / Fax: +49 6 11 60 29 101 / Cellphone: +49 170 540 2667/
E-mail : stefan.wortmann@sglcarbon.de / Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
2
Exhibit 8
SGL Group ranks among Germany's top innovators
o Lothar Spath awards the carbon specialist the "Top 100" seal of approval
Wiesbaden, June 22, 2007. The SGL Group - The Carbon Company - will receive the
"Top 100" prize this evening at a ceremony in Stuttgart and therefore ranks
among the 100 most innovative German companies, according to this year's "Top
100" comparison of companies in Germany. In total, 280 companies applied for the
"Top 100". As part of this economic initiative, outstanding innovative
management in small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) companies has already
been determined for 2007, for the 15th time.
The mentor of the Top 100 event, Lothar Spath, the former Prime Minister of
Baden-Wurttemberg, will award the coveted seal of approval to the company based
in Wiesbaden at a ceremony in the Phonixhalle in Stuttgart this evening. Members
of the Jury include e.g. Prof. Roland Berger, Prof. Hans-Jorg Bullinger, Prof.
Luigi Colani, Prof. Fredmund Malik, Prof. August-Wilhelm Scheer and Prof. Tom
Sommerlatte.
The Top 100 cross-industry comparative survey of companies in Germany which
takes place annually measures the innovative strength of SME companies and
identifies the one hundred most innovative companies. Five areas are reviewed
and evaluated: innovative success, innovative climate, innovative processes and
organization, innovation-supporting top management and innovative marketing. In
the category "innovative processes and organization", the SGL Group even
succeeded in making the leap into the top ten of the 280 applicants.
"Top 100" looks for and promotes SME companies that are outstanding thanks to
their innovative strength. The search is carried out by innovative experts at
the Vienna University of Economics and Business Administration under the
supervision of Prof. Nikolaus Franke. The experts begin by assessing the
innovative potential of the applicants by means of a questionnaire and use a
second questionnaire to evaluate the central aspects of innovation management.
Franke compiles the individual results in each case in a detailed benchmark
report for the award-winning company. Robert Koehler, CEO of SGL Group, is very
content with the award since it distinguishes the work and investments for the
Advanced Materials segment of the Group over the last years: ,,With our
specialty graphite and carbon fibers products e.g. for solar, wind,
lithium-ion-battery, nuclear, aerospace/defense, and automobile industry we are
a specialist with a broad base of innovative materials and solutions operating
in innovative markets."
SGL Group - The Carbon Company
Corporate Communications, Media Relations
Rheingaustrasse 182, D-65203 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +49 (6 11) 60 29-100, Fax: +49 (6 11) 60 29-101
E-mail: cpc@sglcarbon.de, Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
"Technology & Innovation" (T&I), the Group's global research center which was
established in 2005 at the largest of the SGL Group sites worldwide is a
supporting pillar of the Company's new growth strategy. The T&I employees are
developing products and solutions for existing and future markets. A significant
feature of the carbon specialists' innovation management is its close
intercommunication with scientific research establishments and universities as
well as its early cooperation with customers in development projects.
The SME initiative Top 100 is organized by compamedia GmbH based in Uberlingen.
All 100 companies are presented in the book published by Lothar Spath entitled
"Top 100 - the 100 most innovative SME companies". In addition, they are
presented in detail on the website www.top100.de. As "Top 100" companies, the
companies also automatically belong to the network of the best innovators in
Germany and benefit from meetings and contact with the other 99 top innovators.
About SGL Group - The Carbon Company
------------------------------------
The SGL Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon-based
products. It has a comprehensive portfolio ranging from carbon and graphite
products to carbon fibers and composites. SGL Group's core competencies are its
expertise in high-temperature technology as well as its applications and
engineering know-how gained over many years. These competencies enable the
Company to make full use of its broad material base. SGL Group's carbon-based
materials combine several unique properties such as electrical and thermal
conductivity, heat and corrosion resistance as well as high mechanical strength
combined with low weight. Due to the paradigm shift in the use of materials as a
result of the worldwide shortage of energy and raw materials, there is a growing
demand for SGL Group's high-performance materials and products from an
increasing number of industries. Carbon and graphite products are used whenever
other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, plastics, wood etc. fail due to
their limited properties. Products from the SGL Group are used predominantly in
the steel, aluminum, automotive, chemical and glass/ceramics industries.
However, manufacturers in the semiconductor, battery, solar/wind energy,
environmental protection, aerospace and defense industries as well as in the
nuclear energy industry also figure among the Company's customers.
With around 30 production sites in Europe, North America and Asia as well as a
service network covering more than 100 countries, the SGL Group is a company
with a global presence. In 2006, the Company's workforce of 5,250 generated
sales of (euro) 1.2 billion. The Company's head office is located in
Wiesbaden/Germany.
Important note:
This press release contains statements on future developments that are based on
currently available information and that involve risks and uncertainties that
could lead to actual results deviating from these forward-looking statements.
The statements on future developments are not to be understood as guarantees.
The future developments and events are dependent on a number of factors, they
include various risks and unanticipated circumstances and are based on
assumptions that may not be correct. These risks and uncertainties include, for
example, unforeseeable changes in political, economic and business conditions,
particularly in the area of electrosteel production, the competitive situation,
interest rate and currency developments, technological developments and other
risks and unanticipated circumstances. We see other risks in price developments,
unexpected developments relating to acquired and consolidated companies and in
the ongoing cost optimization programs. SGL Carbon does not intend to update
these forward-looking statements.
Your contact person:
Corporate Communications / Press office / Stefan Wortmann
Tel.: +49 611 60 29 105 / Fax: +49 6 11 60 29 101 / Cellphone: +49 170 540 2667/
E-mail : stefan.wortmann@sglcarbon.de / Internet: www.sglcarbon.de
2
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by
the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
SGL CARBON Aktiengesellschaft
Date: June 28, 2007 By: /s/ Robert J. Kohler
------------------------------
Name: Robert J. Koehler
Title: Chairman of the
Board of Management
By: /s/ Sten Daugaard
------------------------------
Name: Mr. Sten Daugaard
Title: Member of the Board
of Management