Trelleborg buys into U.S. medical silicones market

Trelleborg Sealing Solutions (Fort Wayne, IN) has signed an agreement to acquire Specialty Silicone Fabricators Inc. (SSF; Tustin, CA), a privately owned manufacturer of precision silicone components for medical device manufacturers. A significant player in the high-growth U.S. life sciences market, SSF will provide Trelleborg with a strong platform for future development, according to a press release announcing the acquisition.

In addition to Tustin, SSF has production facilities in Paso Robles, CA, and Elk Rapids, MI. Sales amounted to approximately $38.5 million in 2015, notes the release. Trelleborg comments that this bolt-on acquisition is part of its strategy to strengthen its positions in attractive market segments.

Analysts forecast continued growth for medical-grade silicone over the next few years to the detriment of rubber and plastics. The material has several properties, including biocompatibility, ease of molding and sterilization and a soft tactile quality that make it desirable for medical applications.

SSF offers a full suite of contract manufacturing services that include silicone molding, dip coating, extrusion and calendaring. Assembly, packaging and sterilization services are also available. The company claims to be the only business in the world to offer start-to-finish drug-eluting product development and manufacturing.

“SSF is a leading player in silicone products for the U.S. market, with a strong reputation, track record and an attractive base of OEM customers. The acquired company differentiates itself by focusing on advanced, challenging applications and by providing support and value to the customer from initial design – a similar positioning and approach to Trelleborg,” says Claus Barsøe, President of the Trelleborg Sealing Solutions business area.

The transaction is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of 2016.