Polartech,a supplier of metalworking fluid technology and expertise to the lubricant industry, has announced an extension of its relationship with Italmatch Chemicals (formerly Azko Nobel), a specialty chemical supplier, for distribution of Ketjenlube polymer esters. Polartech spokesman Peter Richards told Lube Report that the Ketjenlube products are to be used in metalworking fluids designed for machining components for the automotive, nuclear, aerospace and high tech industries, among others. ...

Colfax Corp., a manufacturer of fluid-handling products, has acquired Houston-based Lubrication Systems Co., which provides centralized oil mist lubrication and lube oil purification systems, from its shareholders for an undisclosed amount. Lubrication Systems, which has 88 employees, has manufacturing operations in Houston and sales and service associates in Baton Rouge, La.; Port Arthur, Texas; Tacoma, Wash.; and Beijing, China. LSC is also majority owner of Houston-based MRT Laboratories, whi...

Haas TCM of West Chester, Pa., has acquired Kemfast Aerospace, a Hampshire, U.K.-based supplier of chemical management services and aerospace chemicals, including turbine engine oils, hydraulic fluids, piston engine oils, aircraft grease, lubricating oils and fluids. Terms of the transaction were undisclosed. Both companies are privately owned. We believe this will certainly enhance our lubricants offering and help us expand our business, Kemfast managing director Chris Wright told Lube Report. ...

Petroleum additive supplier Afton Chemical Corp. reported a strong fourth quarter and year, helping fuel improved earnings for its parent company. Afton Chemicals parent company, NewMarket Corp., said on Friday that its petroleum additive segment posted an operating profit of $19.6 million for the three months ending Dec. 31, compared to $17.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2005. For the full year, the petroleum additives units operating profit grew to $100.3 million, a 67 percent increase ove...

Specialty chemicals maker Degussa GmbH of Dusseldorf, Germany, announced it will sell its antioxidant activities to a subsidiary of the Starnberg holding company Arques Industries AG for an undisclosed amount. Antioxidants are used to prevent reaction with atmospheric oxygen. Degussas antioxidants business comprises products for lubricants, plastics, foods and paints as well as beauty care and wellness. In particular, Ionol, Ionox and Ralox antioxidants may be used in manufacturing of high perfo...