Materials/Manufacturing

MP Materials & Sumitomo Forge Rare Earth Supply Pact for Japan; MP Continues Dramatic Growth 

MP Materials and Sumitomo Corporation have forged a rare earths supply agreement which they say will diversify and strengthen rare earth supplies in Japan. Under the agreement, announced February 21, Sumitomo will serve as the exclusive distributor of NdPr oxide produced by MP Materials to Japanese customers. Further, the companies will collaborate on the supply of rare earth metals and other products.  […]

Electromagnetics

Researchers at Aichi Steel & Tohoku University Design Lighter, Smaller e-Axle 

Using its molded MagFine alloy, Aichi Steel reports that it has developed in collaboration with Tohoku University an experimental e-axle that is 40% lighter and smaller than conventional designs. It combines a newly developed compact high-speed reducer with a compact and lightweight 34,000 rpm motor. For the first time, says the company, it has succeeded in proofing the technology of a high-speed, high-reduction next-generation electric axle with high-speed rotation and high deceleration that contributes to weight reduction.  […]