Honeywell to supply insulation agent to Hisense Kelon

Morris Township, N.J.-based Honeywell International (NYSE: HON) said today it signed a multi-year agreement to supply its Enovate hydrofluorocarbon blowing agent to Chinese appliance maker Hisense Kelon.

Honeywell said its blowing agent is a non-flammable, zero ozone-depleting liquid that allows insulating foam to expand.

"Our new agreement with Hisense Kelon marks the first time that Enovate will be used in refrigerators made in China," said Ken Gayer, global business director for Honeywell's foam insulation blowing agents business.

"It also demonstrates our commitment and ability to help the world's leading appliance makers stay ahead of demanding environmental and energy standards," said Gayer.

Honeywell said it supplies its Enovate to a number of major appliance makers and in August announced that Whirlpool extended its long-term supply agreement.

The insulating foam helps meet energy-consumption standards without increasing wall thickness, according to Honeywell, which would reduce storage capacity or require a larger cabinet design.

"Equipment manufacturers here in China are increasingly turning to proven technologies that will help them meet energy-efficiency and environmental standards in markets they serve around the world," said David Lu, Asia commercial director for Honeywell's Fluorine Products business.

In the U.S., the Department of Energy recently boosted the energy-efficiency criteria for refrigerators, calling for the appliances to be 20 percent more efficient, up from 15 percent, beginning April 28, 2008.

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