Hanwha supplies EcoPro BM with cathode production equipment
For Pohang CAM5, CAM5-N
Hanwha Corp. has supplied cathode production equipment to EcoPro BM, TheElec has learned.
The equipment will be supplied to EcoPro BM’s new factory in Pohang called CAM5-N. Hanwha also supplied equipment for CAM5 that is nearby.
The two factories produce cathode materials for use by Samsung SDI and SK Innovation in their electric vehicle batteries.
CAM5-N is dedicated to SK Innovation. EcoPro BM is planning to produce NCM811 (nickel, cobalt and manganese in 8 to 1 to 1 ratio) with over 80% nickel there.
Hanwha is likely supplying the automation equipment at the front of kiln and air and ventilation system, which will be around tens of billions of won. EcoPro BM is using valves and ceramic components made by Saint-Gobain of France and Noritake of Japan.
Kiln is used to thermally mix cathode materials. Precursors are mixed with cobalt sulfate and lithium hydroxide at temperatures above 200℃. The efficiency of this process determines the yield rate and productivity of cathode materials.
Hanwha also clinched Posco Chemical as a client for equipment for kiln but the volume is smaller than that of EcoPro BM, a person with directly knowledge of the matter said.
Hanwha declined to comment on the matter.