SKF Invests Further in Schweinfurt Production Channels; Strengthens Mkt Position in China
SKF is investing a further 145 million Swedish kronor to improve the competitiveness of its large-size bearing production in Schweinfurt, Germany. The investments will modernize large-size bearing production, cut production lead times by 50 perent and improve competitiveness. The compamy also annouced today its move to strengthen its market position in China.
As part of the investment, a new, automatized hard machining channel will be installed. Combining this with the latest in connectivity solutions will allow for shorter resetting times and greater flexibility in production batch sizes. A new heat treatment process will also be implemented, making the process more efficient and improving bearing performance.
- This investment is in-line with our strategy of developing world-class manufacturing channels across our main product lines that replace older, less competitive technologies. It also reaffirms our commitment to developing our manufacturing base in Europe and, in particular, Germany, Luc Graux, President, Bearing Operations, says.
The investment announced today is expected to be completed during 2018. In total, during the last three months, SKF has announced investments totalling 295 million Swedish kronor in upgrading production channels in Schweinfurt.
SKF said in a seperate statement that it is investing 70 million in developing roller manufacturing capabilities in Dalian, China.
- The investment will improve utilisation of the Group’s global manufacturing capacity and strengthen SKF’s service capabilities in China, the Company says in a statement.
- Developing our roller manufacturing capabilities in China is a strategically important step. It allows us to better utilise our existing manufacturing footprint and strengthens our position on the Chinese market, through improved lead-times and customer responsiveness, Patrick Tong, President, Industrial Sales Asia, says.
The Company adds that the investment in Dalian has already commenced and manufacturing of rollers will be ramped up during 2017.