Thordon Honored for Innovative Technology that meets rigorous environmental claims

For Immediate Release - April 2004

Thordon Bearings is committed to continuous research and development," says Dr. Tracy Thomson, Executive Vice-President of Thordon Bearings who accepted the award. "Our materials are increasingly specified in numerous industrial and marine applications where high performance and environmentally-safe operation are required."

The ETV Program was established jointly by Environment Canada and Industry Canada in 1997. Today, operating through ETV Canada Inc, its mandate is to accelerate the application of technologies that address environmental priorities by providing independent verification of performance claims. Although numerous applications for ETV certificates are received each year, because of the rigorous requirements involved, only forty-seven have been awarded to date.

"ETV promotes the credibility of Canada's environmental industry internationally and I commend these companies for their innovative efforts," says David Anderson, Minister of the Environment, who presented Dr. Thomson with the Certificate.

Lucienne Robillard, Minister of Industry, who also attended the ceremony added, "Canadian companies [such as Thordon Bearings] are on the forefront of environmental technology and the companies being recognized today exemplify the type of advances being made in this country."

Specifically, Thordon Bearings earned the ETV Certificate for its Thor-Lube Environmentally-Friendly Stern Tube Bearing System. This technology replaces traditional oil-lubricated stern tube systems with non-metallic bearings and a biodegradable, water-based lubricant. Unlike oil-filled stern tubes, the Thordon system has absolutely no risk of oil pollution. This is a significant benefit to the shipping industry.

Independent testing - part of the ETV verification process - confirmed that the Thor-Lube system conforms to the United States Clean Water Act. It is readily biodegradable at a level greater than 70% after 28 days, exhibits water solubility at all compositions (so it will not accumulate on the shoreline), does not form a surface sheen and will not harm marine life.

While proud to have earned the ETV Certificate, innovation is nothing new to Thordon Bearings. The company has been the industry leader in advanced, environmentally-friendly materials and products for more than forty years.