STEMCO, an EnPro Industries company, announced today that it has formed a strategic alliance with Duroline SA, a Vipal SA partner. The STEMCO Duroline alliance will provide brake linings to the on-highway commercial vehicle market in North America. Duroline, based in Caxias do Sul, Brazil, is a leading manufacturer of high performance friction material for commercial vehicles utilizing its proprietary “Wave Process” which delivers superior stopping performance with reduced noise and reduced drum wear.
Under the alliance, Duroline will transfer all distribution of its products in North America to STEMCO and STEMCO will invest in the expansion of Duroline’s Brazilian manufacturing facility to meet the anticipated increase in demand. The alliance combines the partners’ strong commercial vehicle focus, superior product technology and outstanding reputations for training and customer support. It will utilize STEMCO’s 45 member fleet-based technical sales team to assist customers with the repair and selection of friction products appropriate to their needs. The sales team will also provide on-site foundation brake training to maximize both the life of friction material and vehicle safety.
“This alliance combines Duroline’s great product with STEMCO’s precision training to improve the braking performance of customers’ equipment while lowering their total operating costs,” said Jon Cox, STEMCO president. “We are very excited to enter into this relationship with Duroline. We are committed to the long term success of this relationship, and we look forward to exploring other opportunities to expand it in the future.”
Founded in 1988 to supply brake linings for medium and heavy-duty vehicles and buses, Duroline is an outstanding international manufacturer of friction materials. The company’s commitment to providing its clients with quality products is ensured by leading-edge manufacturing processes and strict quality control. Based in Caxias do Sul, Brazil, Duroline is a Vipal SA partner. Vipal operates in the national and international markets in product segments for tire retreads, tube repairs, rubber flooring and sheets, and rubber compounds for several applications. For more information, visit the Duroline website at www.duroline.com.br.