Japan: TMD Friction Acquired by Knorr-Bremse

Image courtesy of Knorr-Bremse

The transport activities of brake pad manufacturers TMD Friction have been acquired by the Knorr-Bremse Group as part of an ongoing development of its friction materials activities.

TMD is a part of the Japanese holding company Nisshinbo Holdings Inc., and is a market leader in the manufacture of friction materials for cars and commercial and rail vehicles. Much of its production activities take place in Coswig, Germany and Manchester, UK.

Klaus Deller, Chairman of the Executive Board of Knorr-Bremse AG said:

“Through the acquisition of the rail transport activities of TMD Friction we are strengthening both our market position and our know-how in friction materials. Being able to develop braking systems and friction materials from start to finish will help us further improve the braking effect, reduce noise and cut life cycle costs, benefitting our customers and the environment.”

In 2008, Knorr-Bremse acquired Anchor Brake Shoes, a North American brake shoe manufacturer, and in 2010 it entered into a joint venture with ICER Rail which completed Knorr-Bremse’s portfolio of European UIC compliant organic brake pads as part of the development in friction material activities.