PARMA, Ohio — (BUSINESS WIRE) — March 28, 2013 — GrafTech International today announced that its Engineered Solutions (ES) business segment has won another contract to provide thermal management solutions in support of space research and exploration.

The latest project is the LEONIDAS (Low Earth Orbiting Nanosatellite Integrated Defense Autonomous System) program, which is a venture of the Hawaii Space Flight Lab (HSFL) and the state of Hawaii, under contract to the Operationally Responsive Space Office in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Nanosatellites are microsatellites, which are miniaturized artificial satellites of low mass and size, usually under 100 kg (220 lbs). They provide many benefits over large-sized ones, including significant cost savings, design efficiencies and the ability to complete missions that larger satellites cannot accomplish.

The LEONIDAS project has three stages, each with a different LEO motor that will provide axial propulsion for the launch vehicle. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd stages use LEO-46, LEO-7 and LEO-1 rocket motors, respectively, which are designed and produced by Aerojet, a GenCorp company headquartered in Sacramento, California. GrafTech is supplying the carbon/carbon insert for each motor. The vehicle’s first flight test, which will include a payload, is planned for the second half of 2013.

The advanced material products and solutions for this space project were developed and manufactured by a subsidiary of GrafTech’s Engineered Solutions' segment based in Maine.

GrafTech Chairman & CEO Craig Shular commented, “Our ES business segment continues to leverage GrafTech’s R&D expertise in developing and executing innovative material science solutions for a wide range of industries. We look forward to seeing ES grow its capabilities in 2013 and beyond.”

About GrafTech
GrafTech International is a global company that has been redefining limits for more than 125 years. We offer innovative graphite material solutions for our customers in a wide range of industries and end markets, including steel manufacturing, advanced energy and latest generation electronics. GrafTech operates 20 principal manufacturing facilities on four continents and sells products in 70 countries. Headquartered in Parma, Ohio, GrafTech employs 3,000 people. For more information, call 216.676.2000 or visit www.graftech.com.

NOTE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release are forward-looking statements relating to our business. Forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations as of the date hereof. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. We have no obligation to update any of the information contained or referenced in this press release.

GrafTech International
Betsy Keck, 216-676-2315
Global Communications Manager