Plant engineering in transition: sustainability in focus

In a world characterized by global upheaval and geopolitical changes, the industry is also undergoing a transformation. Harald Wimmer, Sales Manager at LK Metallwaren GmbH in Schwabach, refers to the latest challenges and decisive developments in the five divisions of the leading plant engineering company. From innovative approaches to hall heating to the increased use of hydrogen – the focus is on sustainability and progressive solutions.

The modern headquarters of LK Metallwaren GmbH in Schwabach with production

The world has changed noticeably in the past two years. There are also dynamic developments in the industry. “At LK Metallwaren, we have continuously worked on innovative solutions,” emphasizes Harald Wimmer. “A lot has happened in the five business areas of hall heating, water treatment, sound insulation, process technology and metal goods. Today, 90% of hall heating relies on heat pump technology and innovative coolants such as r32 and r290. In water treatment, grease separators are used for various industries. In noise control, business is being driven forward by the expansion of sales and specialization in special machines. In process technology, we concentrate on individual systems that go beyond the usual series production. In the metal goods division, we have entered into contract manufacturing in order to be able to serve customer requests for sheet metal parts.”

REKU 10 ventilation system with heat pump

Sustainability as a guiding principle

For more than 15 years, LK Metallwaren’s slogan has been “For the sake of the climate”. The company is actively involved in the current trend towards sustainability and follows the principle that sustainable products should also be manufactured sustainably. This philosophy is reflected in the use of environmentally friendly materials and advanced technologies. Another step towards the future is the intensive collaboration with the Technical University in Nuremberg and a start-up company that has emerged from this. The aim is to convert the systems to hydrogen and increase yields from the current 30% to 100% within the next three to five years.

LK Ventilation system REKU – Functional diagram heat pump

Challenges and opportunities

One crucial aspect is the willingness of customers to move away from fossil fuels. “More and more companies want to use more environmentally friendly and sustainable technologies,” says the sales manager. “The majority are actively driving change. Although there are also companies that are hesitant for cost reasons, this is the smaller proportion. The willingness to switch to sustainable energy sources is not limited to Germany; it also exists among customers abroad. Of course, subsidies and incentives are helping to encourage companies that are still reluctant due to financial considerations.”

LK compact filtration redundant 18-1200

On course for growth

Despite the current challenges posed by geopolitical events and the war in Ukraine, LK Metallwaren is on course for growth. With two locations in Germany and activities in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Switzerland and France, the company plans to further expand its presence. The challenge is to find employees and prepare for possible changes. “The fact that we offer an open and team-oriented environment at LK Metallwaren has a positive effect,” says Harald Wimmer. “Our employees should be able to develop, contribute ideas and address mistakes. In addition to attractive social benefits, we focus on flexibility in order to meet the needs of the people who work for us.”

F10 Sound insulation on a machine tool with sliding doors

Building on strengths

Innovation, sustainability and a strong customer focus are the strengths that LK Metallwaren can continue to build on in the future. “We don’t just manufacture systems, we support the customer throughout the entire process – from planning to installation and service,” confirms the Sales Manager. The Green Climate System is an example of how customers receive customized solutions that are not only efficient and sustainable, but also meet their individual requirements. Based on heat pump technology
the GCS goes beyond conventional systems and enables the use of district heating, local heating and environmentally friendly refrigerants. The company’s plans for the future include the targeted expansion of the service area, a stronger international presence and the expansion of the assembly teams. LK Metallwaren has successfully mastered the challenges of the past. The prospects promise further growth and sustainable progress.