To Our Valued Customers: 10/19/2017
Re: Kobe Steel Issues Regarding Specifications
We are aware of the recent press and public announcement announcements regarding falsified certifications and potentially non-conforming materials from Kobe Steel and its affiliates.
This is a very fluid situation. Here is what we know at this time:
- Kobe Steel has historically been a very minor (in fact de minus) part of our supply chain. We do not currently have any Kobe material in stock.
- Over the past few years we have brought in a few sizes from Suzuki Garphyttan for our South Bend facility that were made from Kobe rod. We have asked Suzuki Garphyttan in South Bend for comment on all items in question.
- The Kobe companies, listed as a potential source of the problem, have not been the supplier of any of the product we purchased. As of the date above, the Kobe rod mill that supplies Suzuki Garphyttan has not been shown to have a problem. However, we recognize that the investigation is still underway.
- Please note our supply chair on Valve Quality Wire has traditionally been Nippon Steel and Sumitomo Metals Group (NSSG), who source all the rod from their sister rod company, Nippon-Muroran Works, exclusively.
As this situation continues to develop and as we gain more information, we will keep customers who may have received Kobe rod product from us, advised of the status.
Sincerely,
John
John Mintun
Vice President of Purchasing, Wire Products
Gibbs® Wire & Steel, Inc.
Gibbs is pleased to announce the addition of Bill Thoma as Strip Sales Manager for the Midwest Region of the U.S. Bill is based out of the Gibbs South Bend, Indiana, facility. He comes to us a seasoned professional in the Metals Industry. Bill began his metals career with Ulbrich Steel, working in Manufacturing, Sales, and Production Layout. In 2005, he launched his own firm, TNT Steel Sales, acting as a broker, independent representative, and sourcing consultant specializing in narrow width, slit and edged strip products.