November 22, 2008

Outokumpu to donate EUR 200,000 to University of Oulu

Outokumpu is donating EUR 200,000 to University of Oulu's Center for Advanced Steels Research. The center promotes interdisciplinary steel research, education and cooperation with industry. The donation will be used to acquire a new thermal-mechanical simulator, which is required for development work in steels.

The University of Oulu is an important partner to Outokumpu when it comes to research and education in metallurgy and materials, process and automation technology. About 70% of the academically educated personnel at Outokumpu's Tornio Works graduated from the University of Oulu. Further concrete cooperation is also carried out through various projects, doctoral theses and diploma dissertations.

Mr Pekka Erkkilä executive VP of Outokumpu said that "Close cooperation and dialogue with universities and research centers has always been a fundamental aspect of our stainless steel development work. In order to ensure competitiveness, it's vital that the industry continually invests in new steel grades and improves manufacturing processes."

The University of Oulu is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, and Outokumpu's donation will be paid into a fund that has been established to commemorate this special year. Another metal industry company, Rautaruukki Oyj, is making a corresponding contribution.