International. Chemical company Stahl recently opened its new 'Automotive Centre of Excellence' in Waalwijk, the Netherlands.
The center focuses on developing high-performance and sustainable solutions for car interiors, ranging from smart surfaces that change with temperature to special haptics to give it a warm and pleasant touch.
"At the Center of Excellence our goal is to inspire customers by showcasing our latest innovations," said Stefan Buri, Global Director of Automotive Marketing. "At the center we will carry out tests with key customers that will serve as the basis for the development of applications of new solutions."
The Center of Excellence is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery to meet the needs of the automotive industry. For example, there is a unique line of coating, lacquering and printing that includes a large-scale vacuum machine to produce skins on door panels. In addition, it has two squeaking and rattling test machines for seating materials and finishes.
Stahl strongly believes in taking responsibility, whether in the development of new products or the construction of new offices, factories and centers. "Our new Center of Excellence is energy neutral. It has a green roof to compensate for the grass that has been removed in the construction of the center. In addition, the building has solar panels, a heat exchanger and storm drainage to ensure a groundwater level that prevents soil dehydration," explains Buri.
The Centre has been built and will be certified according to BREEAM standards for the design of sustainable buildings. Stahl will be one of the first to have a BREEAM certified laboratory in the Netherlands. Finally, Stahl also carefully considered the measures needed to ensure optimal ergonomics for its employees.
