Key facts
- Sumitomo Electric Industries is expanding its lineup of ultrahard tools with reduced tungsten content.
- The move comes as Chinese export curbs on tungsten push manufacturers toward alternative materials.
Japan's Sumitomo Electric Industries is expanding its range of ultrahard tools that use significantly less tungsten, a critical metal subject to Chinese export restrictions. The company showcased its latest offerings on Oct. 26 at the Japan International Machine Tool Fair, aiming to provide alternatives for manufacturers seeking to reduce reliance on Chinese supply. The move addresses concerns over soaring prices and potential supply disruptions for the metal.