Vahterus increases production capacity by investing in a second laser cutting line
Vahterus, a welded plate heat exchanger manufacturer in Uusikaupunki, Finland, is investing in a second fiber laser cutting line with Ionix as a partner. The first line, implemented in cooperation with Ionix, began operations in 2013 and will continue to operate at full capacity, but there is a need for additional capacity due to growing sales figures. Like the first line, the new line is fully automatic and capable of unmanned production. Production is scheduled to start on the new line in autumn 2022. Vahterus had their own, precise needs for the laser cutting line, and as with the first line, Ionix is responsible for the line’s mechanical engineering and laser cutting technology, and also e.g. project plan, investment calculations, schedules and testing have been done with Ionix.
The demanding project is progressing in stages and in collaboration
Paavo Pitkänen, Vahterus’ Technology Director, says that in the early stages of the investment project, Vahterus surveyed several suppliers of laser equipment. The choice of Ionix was influenced by satisfaction with the operations of the first line, but above all by the expertise of the Ionix team and their ability to listen to the customer’s wishes. The laser cutting line is completely tailored to Vahterus’ needs. A team of about 8–10 people from Vahterus is participating in the project. – I recommend! There is no negative feedback to give. The project has been done in a good spirit. The best way for us is not to buy a turnkey system, but to do it together. It requires a lot of trust. Goals must be set together and costs must also be assessed transparently. Tough goals have been achieved together with these top professionals, says Paavo Pitkänen, Vahterus’ Technology Director. Vahterus (www.vahterus.com) is a pioneer in heat transfer technology, known for its innovation. Plate heat exchangers designed and manufactured by Vahterus are used in more than 50 countries in applications such as the energy, process and chemical industries, as well as refrigeration technology. Founded in 1990, the family-owned company employs approximately 400 people and has subsidiaries in the Americas, England, Germany and China. Exports account for more than 90 percent of the company’s turnover. Since its establishment, the company has grown strongly, gaining a position as one of the world’s leading heat exchanger manufacturers, known especially for its newer heat exchangers and technological development work.
