Since the arrival of the Portuguese in Brazil more than 500 years ago, its coastline has played a vital role in the South American country’s economy, not just for tourism but also for activities like fishing, maritime transport, and oil extraction. Stretching over seven thousand kilometers, it ranks among the world’s longest coastlines, giving Brazil a strategic edge in development. Central to this maritime strength is the Brazilian Navy, which, beyond defending national waters, safeguards the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and protects the biodiversity of the “Blue Amazon,” ensuring the security and sustainability of these critical resources.
Contacts mentioned in the article:
Luciano Bussi, Sales Manager at KLINGER Brazil
Sandra Silva, Quality Manager at KLINGER Brazil
Vinicius Tomiati, Specialist Sealing at KLINGER Brazil
Shoring up naval innovation
For the success of operations conducted by the Brazilian Navy, reliable, cutting-edge technology supplies are essential. That’s why strict quality parameters are set for their procurement. In 2021, as Brazil started sourcing suppliers for the production of nuclear-powered submarines using French Naval Group technology, KLINGER Brazil was selected as a key local supplier for gaskets, supporting the country’s goal to manufacture submarines domestically rather than importing them. KLINGER Brazil is known in the market and a reference for this type of application was then chosen: Klingersil C-4430.
A journey of compliance
The certification journey for KLINGER Brazil began with a detailed audit by the Naval Group. Sandra Silva, KLINGER Brazil’s Quality Manager, recalls the start of a “meticulous three-year process filled with audits, emails, and calls. This close collaboration ensured compliance at every step, ultimately securing our progress and success.”
Tested and approved sealing solution
KLINGER Brazil’s expertise in supplying gasket materials for nuclear plants was essential throughout the project with the Naval Group. Vinicius Tomiati, the specialist in KLINGER Brazil’s sealing division, noted that this prior experience provided an edge in meeting the Naval Group’s stringent requirements: “During rigorous testing, Klingersil C-4430 not only met but exceeded expectations, demonstrating its versatility and exceptional stress retention, strengthening its reputation for outstanding performance,” says Vinicius. The certification process also coincided with a major modernization phase at KLINGER Brazil.
Certified for maritime defense applications
In February 2024, KLINGER Brazil achieved a significant milestone, earning the Naval Group’s technical capability certificate to become an approved supplier for the Brazilian Navy. Sales Manager Luciano Bussi expressed pride in this contribution, “It is gratifying to know that we are contributing to the success of our country’s defense. KLINGER Brazil once again demonstrates its level of quality, commitment, and reliability.”
Medal presented by the Brazilian Navy to Luciano Bussi, Sales Manager at KLINGER Brazil.
Fact box
Did you know…
… that the Brazilian Navy emerged in the context of Brazil’s independence in 1822 and was of extreme importance for the movement’s consolidation?
… that June 11 is celebrated as Brazilian Navy Day. The date was chosen in reference to the Naval Battle of Riachuelo, fought on June 11, 1865?
… that the Blue Amazon, as the Brazilian coast is called, is responsible for supplying 95% of Brazil’s oil, 80% of its natural gas, and 45% of its fish?
