Specialist technology firm the Freudenberg Group (Weinheim / Germany; www.freudenberg.com) has acquired UK sealing manufacturer Metflex (Blackburn; www.metflex.co.uk) for an undisclosed sum. Metflex produces precision moulded rubber components, pressure regulators, seals, diaphragms and gaskets, and also offers design and consultancy services. The last accounts to be filed by the company for the year to the end of December 2015 showed revenues of GBP 11.4m (EUR 13m), with GBP 2.2m-worth of operating profits.

The company has developed a technical process, known as ‘Dispersed Fibre Technology’, which is used to manufacture a range of diaphragm seals. Previously, individual fabric parts were worked into the seal in a multi-stage production process, but due to the fabric reinforcement of the diaphragm materials, the seals can withstand higher pressures and attain a longer service life. Claus Möhlenkamp, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies’ chief executive, said the deal would help it develop its market-leading position in membranes.