Norwegian synthetic graphite producer Vianode has signed a Letter of Intent with South Korea’s JR Energy Solution to supply anode-grade synthetic graphite for EV and stationary storage batteries, initially from the Via ONE plant in Norway and later from the planned large-scale Via TWO facility in St Thomas, Ontario. The partners will run joint product validation and qualification programmes and work on supply chain integration to deploy Vianode’s low-emission synthetic graphite technology. With more than 95% of synthetic graphite for lithium-ion cells currently sourced from China, the deal signals a push to diversify anode material supply into Europe and North America.

B&B Attachments has launched an enhanced BlockMaster range of forklift-mounted handling attachments for bricks, blocks, flags and kerbs, aimed at high-throughput, abrasive yard conditions where product damage must be tightly controlled. Configurations now include clamps for one to four packs of flags and kerbs, pack-consolidation and rotating variants, plus pipe and chamber clamps, load stabilisers and kiln tine attachments for handling green concrete or clay products. Bespoke designs allow sites to match clamp geometry and rotation to specific pack sizes and curing states, improving handling precision and reducing breakage.

Epiroc has launched the EC 122 hydraulic breaker, 80kg lighter than its predecessor with a 1,120kg service weight for 15–24t carriers, combining a nitrogen piston accumulator with an integrated control valve and energy recovery system to stabilise impact energy and improve hydraulic efficiency. A new turnable lower wear insert and replaceable piston liner allow field rotation and replacement without special tools, cutting downtime and repair costs. VibroSilenced Plus housing with isolated percussion mechanism and sealed openings reduces noise, vibration and internal wear for longer service intervals.