Outotec submitted application for summons against Outokumpu Oyj in a patent dispute regarding a new invention in ferroalloys technology
Outotec has submitted the Helsinki district court an application for summons requesting the district court to confirm Outotec’s rights to a new invention relating to ferroalloys technology, for which Outokumpu has applied for a patent without Outotec’s permission. Outotec claims that all rights to the invention belong to Outotec. In the event that Outotec’s main claim is rejected, Outotec demands compensation for damages from Outokumpu.
Outotec has developed methods for processing ferroalloys for decades. Since the separation of Outotec from its former parent company Outokumpu in 2006 the companies have continued technology cooperation in various forms.
“We have operated in a well-established and confidential business relationship with Outokumpu. The invention in dispute has been developed by Outotec at our Pori research center in Finland, and in our opinion the rights to this invention and the related patents belong to us. Through this invention, significant savings can be achieved in the production costs of stainless steel, and therefore the method is important for Outotec in terms of future sales”, explains Kari Knuutila, Chief Technology Officer of Outotec.
It is estimated that the patent dispute will not impact Outotec’s financial result in 2013.
Outotec provides leading technologies and services for the sustainable use of Earth’s natural resources. As the global leader in minerals and metals processing technology, Outotec has developed over decades many breakthrough technologies. The company also provides innovative solutions for industrial water treatment, the utilization of alternative energy sources and the chemical industry. Outotec shares are listed on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki. www.outotec.com