DFPCL’s PICKBRITE range of products helping enhance the performance of pickling process in stainless steel production

The use of stainless steel is widespread not just in our households, but also extends to industrial use, transportation, construction and the like. While stainless steel production is rather common, its many challenges are hardly highlighted. During the process of manufacturing stainless steel, oxides are formed on the surface of stainless steel, particularly at the time of hot processing and annealing.

As a consequence of this, there is inadequate corrosion resistance. The preferred solution to tackle this is to treat the stainless–steel surface with chemicals such as strong acids, also known as pickling. Most often, mixtures of nitric acid and hydrofluoric acid are used to remove the thin layer of metal/oxide scale from the surface of stainless steel. In some instances, potassium permanganate, sodium hydroxide, and other chemicals are needed based on the grade of the metal.

While there is no dearth of pickling solutions available today, Deepak Fertilisers and Petrochemicals Corporation Limited (DFPCL)’s PICKBRITE range of products stands out as an effective pickling solution that is used in the pickling process of stainless–steel alloys. This specialised solution is uniquely formulated and designed to reduce hydrofluoric acid consumption in the stainless steel pickling process. This, in, turn reduces the effluent generation and load on the effluent treatment plant (ETP).

The success of the PICKBRITE range of products lies in its ability to accept the complexity of the pickling process, which is based on the requirement of the end-product and the unique process followed by the steel manufacturers. It is important to note that the pickling solution cannot be standardised; hence, PICKBRITE is a customised solution is unique to every manufacturer and is formulated after careful inspection of the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the customised solution also optimises the process parameters and ensures higher operational efficiency without any significant process changes.

Proven success

DFPCL’s PICKBRITE pickling solution doesn’t just improve the surface quality of stainless steel, but also enhances the efficacy of the process. That’s not all – it also reduces the overall cost of the treatment and extends the life of the pickling bath solution.

This can be corroborated further with the help of certain significant examples.

A leading manufacturer of stainless–steel products having integrated manufacturing facilities, starting from a melting shop to finished stainless steel products in different forms like wires, wire rods, welding wires, flanges, fasteners and bright bars supplies their finished products to automotive, defence, mining and many more industries.

It was facing several challenges during the pickling process – from handling of hazardous chemicals like hydrofluoric acid and nitric acid to additional burden on the wastewater treatment plant, and excess pickling acid sludge generation. Moreover, their process was experiencing lesser pickling bath life and higher chemical consumption per ton of stainless steel.

It was observed that the trials performed with DFPCL’s PICKBRITE solution was a proven success in pickling efficacy, chemical consumption, quality of finished metal, pickling throughputs, effluent generation and more.

Observed benefits

Apart from the above-mentioned benefits, DFPCL’s PICKBRITE solution reduced the bath preparation time and increased the bath throughput.  Sludge removal from the pickling bath tank was much faster, while sludge handling was reduced. Furthermore, freshwater consumption for bath preparation and lime solution preparation also reduced by 33%.

Lastly, this solution helped with a 5-10% increase in monthly pickling capacity and also offered better safety by reducing the consumption and handling of highly hazardous hydrofluoric acid and nitric acid. That’s not all — it also helped with additional cost saving, since time was saved in bath preparation that helped with higher production. There was also some cost saving observed due to power consumption and reduced manpower. Additionally with optimised pickling by PICKBRITE, it has potential to retain higher weight of the finished products as well. 

Similarly, benefits have been observed at few other stainless steel product manufacturers as well.

Lexar unveils Memory and Gaming portfolio at GITEX Global 2023

India, 18th October 2023: Lexar, a leading global brand in memory and storage solutions, has unveiled its new portfolio of memory and gaming products at GITEX Global, the world’s largest tech event in Dubai. The company’s latest product line-up includes a new microSD card, internal SSDs, DRAM, and portable SSDs, and is showcased at its stand D1, Hall No.1, of the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Lexar’s showcased the new range of products comprising of Professional GOLD micro SDXC UHS-II Card; Portable SSDs along with the Professional NM1090 with Heatsink M.2 Gen 5 NVMe SSD; ARES RGB DDR5 Desktop Memory, which will be made available in the Indian market soon. The products are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of photographers, videographers, content creators, and PC enthusiasts of all levels.

Commenting on the same, Mr. Fissal Oubida, General Manager of Middle East, Africa, and the Indian Subcontinent, Lexar, said “Lexar has established a long history of more than 25 years in developing leading memory solutions. By leveraging next generation manufacturing technologies our newly expanded portfolio now offers high-speed performance combined with higher memory capacities, allowing users to capture, access, play video/games and transfer high-definition multimedia files at blazing speeds”

The new Professional GOLD micro SDXC UHS-II Card leverages high-speed performance and a Video Speed Class 60 (V60) rating. It will be available in 128GB and 256GB storage options and offers read transfer speeds of up to 280MB/s. This card allows users to quickly capture, play back and transfer high-definition multimedia files including 4K video. This is a premium memory solution for gaming devices, action cameras, tablets, smartphones, and drones.

New Lexar Portable SSDs

Lexar has introduced three new portable SSDs designed to offer excellent durability, reliability and speed. The new portable SSDs include the SL600 portable SSD, the Armor 700 Rugged Portable SSD, and the SL500 portable SSD. The trio are secured by Lexar DataShield, a security software that helps keep files safe with 256-bit AES encryption.

Product highlights:

The SL600 Portable SSD is the first of these available in 500GB to 4TB and offers blazing fast speeds of up to 2000MB/s read/write. The drive comes in a durable aluminum enclosure with a sandblasted finish.

Also launching is the SL500 Portable SSD which is available in 512GB to 4TB offering 2000 MB/s read speeds and 1080MB/s write speeds. This drive is enclosed within a sleek and compact aluminum case.

Finally, is the Armor 700 Rugged Portable SSD which offers the same speeds as the SL600 but instead comes in capacities from 1TB to 4TB. This drive also comes in a rugged design with an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance plus can withstand a 3-metre drop. Each of these drives are secured by Lexar DataShield with 256-bit AES encryption.

For gaming enthusiasts and the gaming community, the products unveiled include the Lexar ARES RGB DDR5 Desktop Memory, and the Professional NM1090 M.2 PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD.

• The ARES RBGB DDR5 Desktop Memory offers 8000MT/s and 8400MT/s, allowing gamers and PC enthusiasts to experience superior performance with next-gen DDR5 memory. It also features Lexar RGB Sync so gamers can customize the RGB LED to their own style. Meanwhile, a sleek premium aluminum heat spreader keeps it cool. It is also built with on-die ECC, leveraging real-time data error correction for increased data stability and reliability.
• The Professional NM1090 M.2 PCIe Gen 5 NVMe SSD, on the other hand, delivers 12,000MB/s read and 11,000MB/s write thanks to the PCIe Gen 5×4 NVMe 2.0 standard. The storage drive features an integrated Active Heatsink to reduce heat for better performance and power efficiency. It also leverages the latest 12nm controller for lower power consumption. It is available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB, making it perfect for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.

“We will continue to offer the future of memory solutions to our professional and gaming communities. Our new product lineup has been extensively tested and is specifically designed to work seamlessly with multiple devices such as sports camcorders, tablets, smartphones, and even drones. We are proud to offer the quality, performance, and reliability Lexar users expect,” added Oubida.

Raptee, Premium EV motorcycle Startup appoints former Ather and Ola Electric Veteran C Suresh as Head of Operations

Chennai, October 18, 2023: Premium EV motorcycle Startup Raptee has announced the appointment of Mr. C Suresh as the Head of Operations.

At Raptee, Suresh will construct a comprehensive portfolio of operations in manufacturing engineering, quality, sourcing & supply chain, and projects with a focus on setting up the processes and building a strong team. One of the pivotal roles will be to plan and roll out the products in the near future. Suresh will focus on constructing additional facilities to cater to the projected demand for Raptee Motorcycle.

Suresh, comes with over 25 years of experience, has worked with major auto brands like TVS Motors, Royal Enfield, Mahindra, Ather, and Ola Electric.

Suresh played an integral role in rolling out the iconic products like RE Classic 500, Ather 450, Ola S1. These launches received exceptional response from the consumers. His customer-oriented approach along with customer interactions and feedback sessions helped incorporate them in new product development.

Commenting on Suresh’s appointment, Dinesh Arjun, Founder, CEO, Raptee, says, “We are thrilled to welcome Suresh to our team. His deep understanding of the EV market and expertise in quality, production, engineering, and supply chain management will be invaluable for our company as we prepare to launch our first motorcycle in the market. Suresh shares our vision of creating sustainable and affordable mobility solutions for the future, and we look forward to working with him to achieve our goals.”

Suresh being a veteran in the industry, he has a wealth of knowledge about the auto industry. He comes with the experience of handling more than 13 new product launches in his career. His addition to Raptee further strengthens the Company’s growth strategy as the motorcycle launch draws near.

Suresh has managed supplier relationships across India and international markets, including Vietnam, China, Taiwan, and Europe, overseeing a vast network of over 200 suppliers. His role in establishing the new plants at Ather and Ola Future Factory underscores his commitment to innovation, quality and cutting-edge manufacturing.

Commenting on his appointment, C Suresh, Head – Operations, Raptee, says, “I am excited to embark on a journey that aligns perfectly with my passion for sustainable transportation and cutting-edge technology. My primary focus will be to drive excellence in all aspects of our operations and to enhance the experience of our valued customers, partners, and stakeholders. Championing unwavering quality standards in every aspect of our operations geared towards delivering exceptional products and services to our customers. Our goal is not only to provide high-quality electric motorcycles but also to create a seamless and superior customer experience for all the ICE consumers.”

Raptee is gearing up to launch its first motorcycle by early next year. The company is building a premium range of 2W motorcycles that is tech driven and comes with an on-board charger that is compatible with CCS2 charging stations. The motorcycle is indigenously designed and developed in India and Raptee has registered 45+ patents so far. The premium motorcycles will be intuitive and intelligent, with features like Bluetooth connectivity, throttle mapping and blind-spot detection to ensure maximum safety for the riders. The Company recently raised $3 million in Pre-Series A round and has established a new factory in Chennai.

About Raptee

Kalpvaig Launches Revolutionary ‘Elephant Alert’ App to Safeguard Villagers from Wild Elephant Encounters

New Delhi, 18 October 2023: In India, where the beauty of nature and the proximity to wildlife are integral to the country’s culture, the coexistence of human communities and wild animals has posed a significant challenge. Unfortunately, these interactions have led to countless unfortunate incidents, including loss of life and property. To address this pressing issue, Kalpvaig, a Delhi-based company, proudly announces the launch of the “Elephant Alert” app, designed to provide real-time data about the movement of elephants, ensuring the safety of people, travelers, and wildlife.

Mr. Akshay, the founder of Kalpvaig, initiated the development of the Elephant Alert app with a deep commitment to protecting lives and property in regions prone to elephant encounters. This revolutionary app offers invaluable features that enhance situational awareness, offering users the ability to predict and prepare for potential elephant encounters. Through advanced data analysis, the app not only informs users of elephant locations but also promotes awareness, enabling travelers to make informed choices regarding their safety.

“We are working towards making peaceful coexistence of human and wildlife animals possible with the help of AI and IOT,” added Akshay.

Recent statistics reveal the dire need for an app like Elephant Alert. Over the last seven years, approximately 4,000 individuals have tragically lost their lives due to elephant-related incidents, while attacks by other wild animals have also taken a considerable toll. Odisha has witnessed the highest number of casualties, with 719 people losing their lives to elephant attacks, followed by West Bengal (643), Jharkhand (640), Assam (561), Chhattisgarh (477), Tamil Nadu (371), and Karnataka (252). Additionally, forest fires, an escalating problem, are not only devastating in terms of property loss but also have a profound negative impact on wildlife.

The Kalpvaig app plays a pivotal role in mitigating these issues by tracking the movements of wild animals, aiding in their prevention. When forest fires occur, users receive timely notifications through calls and SMS, empowering them to take immediate safety precautions. Quick response teams can swiftly intervene to control the blaze, ensuring the safety of both the forest and its inhabitants, human and animal alike.

In a world where technology is a powerful ally, Kalpvaig’s Elephant Alert app is a game-changer, offering a lifeline to communities at risk and enabling them to coexist harmoniously with the incredible wildlife that is a part of India’s rich natural heritage. By providing real-time information and enhancing situational awareness, this app not only saves lives but also promotes the conservation of the nation’s diverse ecosystem.

Liminal Unveils Comprehensive Rebrand to Elevate Digital Asset Custody Services in APAC and MENA Regions

India/Dubai, 18 October 2023 — Liminal Custody Solutions (Liminal), the fastest-growing digital asset custody and wallet infrastructure provider in the APAC and MENA region, is thrilled to announce a significant rebranding initiative that underscores its commitment to innovation, excellence, and customer-centricity. This strategic move aims to reshape and elevate the brand’s identity, ushering in a new era of secure, compliant, and automated digital asset custodial solutions.

Positioning the company as a “custody and wallet expert”, the rebranding signifies Liminal’s expansion beyond wallet infrastructure. This exercise ensures that the brand remains at the forefront of digital asset custody, delivering enhanced services to clients and partners.

The digital asset industry is pivoting towards custody as the need for security and risk mitigation emerges as a top consideration. Liminal has recognised the necessity to expand its services to stay on top of these shifts. With its new outlook, Liminal has dedicated itself to building comprehensive layers that encompass compliance, security, and regulatory readiness.

Commenting on the new look, Mahin Gupta, Founder of Liminal, said, “We anticipate a mature, compliant, and standardized web3 ecosystem across the APAC and MENA regions, which will attract institutions to build on Web3. This rebrand aligns with our long-term vision of offering secure, compliant, and efficient custody solutions. Every aspect of our roadmap reinforces this commitment. We are now better positioned to serve this mission by offering improved services and demonstrating our dedication to a compliant, secure, and innovative web3 ecosystem.”

As a part of this transformative initiative, Liminal has unveiled a vibrant new colour palette that symbolizes abundance and strength. Additionally, a more robust and visually appealing solid colour logo, paired with improved typography, is anticipated to enhance brand visibility and recall significantly. This comprehensive effort extends across the entire spectrum of the brand, encompassing the website, product user interface and user experience, marketing collateral, and all brand-related materials. Although the name “Liminal” remains unchanged, the rebrand introduces fresh design elements and vibes. The redesigned website, in particular, will adopt a more product-centric approach, enabling customers to access vital information swiftly while adhering to web3 design standards that aim to deliver a more meaningful B2B/SaaS experience. This strategic approach ensures a seamless transition for existing customers, emphasizing trust-building and continuous satisfaction.

Liminal is poised to expand its footprint in the coming year. With expectations of faster regulatory clarity in the APAC and MENA regions, the company is set to launch regulated custody operations in four regions in the next quarter, providing businesses with a secure, compliant, and regulated custody layer. This will enable businesses to focus on delivering the promises of web3 to end users.

Further sharing upcoming expansion plans of the company, Gupta added, “We are poised for expansion and engagement, with a particular focus on APAC and MENA regions. Currently, we are looking at Hong Kong, Indonesia, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Nigeria and Taiwan. Our dedicated local teams will be delivering tailored solutions and building business relationships within these markets.”

BLS E-Services and Kotak Mahindra Bank Join Forces to Revolutionise Indian Banking

New Delhi, 18th October 2023: BLS E-Services, a subsidiary of BLS International, is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its mission to expand financial access across India. The company has entered into a Master Business Correspondent Agreement with Kotak Mahindra Bank, one of India’s premier banking institutions. This transformative partnership is set to redefine the financial landscape and foster inclusive growth.

The Master Business Correspondent Agreement, signed for an initial period of 3 years, with the possibility of extension for an additional year, solidifies the commitment of both BLS E-Services and Kotak Mahindra Bank to bring accessible and affordable banking services to the underserved and unbanked segments of the population.

This holistic approach to financial inclusion will be initially launched at 1000 strategically selected locations across Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, fostering economic empowerment and growth in these regions.

Shikhar Aggarwal, Chairman of BLS E-Services, said, “Our ground-breaking partnership with Kotak Mahindra Bank heralds a revolutionary chapter in the realm of financial inclusion. Together, we embark on a mission to transcend boundaries and bring the essential realm of banking services to even the remotest corners of our great nation. Our unwavering commitment ensures that every Indian, regardless of their location or background, has the opportunity to access the financial tools required to forge a prosperous and secure future. This isn’t just a partnership; it’s a catalyst for transformative change, an instrument of empowerment, and a testament to our shared vision for a more financially inclusive India.”

The Master Business Correspondent Agreement between BLS E-Services and Kotak Mahindra Bank encompasses a comprehensive scope of financial services designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals, businesses, government entities, and institutions. Under this strategic partnership, BLS E-Services will offer a wide array of banking solutions, including Savings Accounts and Current Accounts for individuals, as well as specialized Government and Institutional Accounts.

The agreement also includes Recurring Deposit (RD) and Term Deposit (TD) services for those looking to save and invest wisely. Additionally, customers will gain access to credit facilities and payment solutions through Loans and Cards, ensuring their financial flexibility. For the underserved and vulnerable segments, Micro Insurance and Micro Pension services will be provided, promoting financial security. Furthermore, the partnership aims to enhance convenience with Cash Deposit and Cash Withdrawal services, making banking accessible to all.

As India continues its journey towards a more inclusive and digitally connected economy, BLS E-Services and Kotak Mahindra Bank are committed to being at the forefront of this transformation, bringing banking services closer to the people and fostering economic growth.

BANKIT Signed a Corporate Agent Agreement with LIC And SBI General Insurance

New Delhi, 18th October 2023: BANKIT, a crucial player in India’s financial landscape, recently tied up a corporate Agency partnership with LIC (Life Insurance Corporation of India) and SBI General Insurance, two of India’s most reputable insurance giants. This landmark collaboration is poised to revolutionize the way insurance services are delivered in the remotest corners of the country.

BANKIT’s partnership with LIC and SBI General Insurance comes with two facets. Firstly, it will directly impact the income streams for BANKIT Agents. Agents will now have the opportunity to offer their customers a wide range of insurance services, including life insurance and general insurance policies. This diversification of services will not only increase the income of agents but also empower them to become comprehensive financial service providers in their communities.

Secondly, millions of people in rural and unbanked areas have long been deprived of convenient access to insurance services. This collaboration will bridge that gap by bringing essential insurance coverage to their doorstep. Families will have life insurance security, and individuals will have access to general insurance products that protect against unforeseen events.

“We are confident that our collaboration with LIC and SBI General Insurance will be a game-changer in the FinTech and insurance sectors,” said Mr. Amit Nigam, Executive Director & COOHe further added, “ By combining our extensive agent network with the trusted brand names of LIC and SBI General Insurance, we are not only increasing financial inclusion but also improving the quality of life for countless individuals. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to empower the underserved and transform rural India into a financially resilient and prosperous community”.

BANKIT has always been dedicated to creating employment opportunities for local shop owners in rural and unbanked areas. Through a vast network of BANKIT Agents, these entrepreneurs have offered essential digital banking, financial, and payment services to previously underserved populations. Under this partnership, these agents can deliver more now, aligning with BANKIT’s commitment to going above and beyond.