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Tag: METZEN

When it matters most: solutions for exceptional industrial situations

Written by Lilan Abuzed on . Posted in All topics, Environmental Technology, Uncategorized.

A major fire. A damaged silo installation. Unstable structures and immediate safety risks. In exceptional industrial situations, hours and days can determine the scale of the financial impact and how quickly a company can become operational again.

When standard processes and standard solutions are no longer enough, experience is critical.

METZEN supports industrial companies in precisely these situations. As a machinery and plant engineering company, our experienced Senior Engineers analyse complex damage scenarios, develop robust solution strategies and, together with a proven network of partners, ensure decisive implementation.

Securing production after a major fire

Following a major fire at one of Germany’s largest fertiliser plants, key production and conveying systems were severely damaged. Unstable structures posed significant safety risks, while a complete production shutdown threatened far-reaching economic consequences.

Under considerable time pressure, METZEN developed a tailored emergency concept. Flexible interim solutions, structural safety measures and the rapid sourcing of spare parts through the METZEN network enabled parts of the production process to resume at short notice.

The result: downtime and financial losses were minimised, while the company’s ability to meet customer demand was maintained.

👉 Discover in our case study how METZEN rapidly stabilised production following the major fire. Download now.

Safety and control following a silo collapse

Shortly before Christmas, two silos containing around 2,800 tonnes of grain partially collapsed at an agricultural cooperative. Debris was under extreme tension, conveying systems were at risk of collapse and severe weather conditions further intensified the situation.

Working with long-standing partners, METZEN developed a precise dismantling strategy. Five cranes, including a 650-tonne crane, were used to secure the damaged structures and dismantle the installation piece by piece under controlled conditions.

The emergency situation was resolved in the shortest possible time while meeting the highest safety requirements.

👉 Read our case study to discover how a complex silo collapse was resolved safely and under controlled conditions. Download now.

These projects demonstrate what plant engineering means when it really matters: assessing situations quickly, evaluating risks, making decisions and implementing solutions with determination.

For more than 50 years, METZEN has successfully delivered over 30,000 projects. Our interdisciplinary engineering expertise, experienced Senior Engineers, in-house manufacturing capabilities and reliable partner network provide the foundation for remaining operational even under exceptional conditions.

When profitability, the ability to meet customer demand or the continuity of production processes are at stake, a standard solution is not enough. You need a solution finder.

METZEN. When it really matters.

When standard solutions reach their limits: grab technology for highly corrosive bulk materials

Written by Lilan Abuzed on . Posted in All topics, Conveying Technology, Grab Technology, Uncategorized.

70,000 tonnes of highly corrosive potash salts per year: fine, prone to clumping and hardening, and highly adhesive. For a chemical company operating across Europe, these material properties presented a significant challenge in day-to-day material handling.

Corrosion and abrasion cause high levels of wear in conventional grab technology. Material build-up makes complete discharge more difficult, increases cleaning requirements and can lead to operational disruptions.

The challenge for METZEN: to develop a grab solution capable of withstanding these extreme conditions over the long term.

The experts at KRÖGER Greifertechnik, a METZEN product brand, analysed the material properties and operating conditions in detail. Working closely with a coating partner, they developed a specially formulated material composition for handling highly corrosive potash salts.

The specialist coating allows even highly adhesive material to slide off reliably. Additional polymer caps protect particularly exposed edges and further increase durability.

The result: the grab operates at full capacity – with no visible signs of wear.

Clean, reliable material handling reduces cleaning requirements and lowers operating and maintenance costs.

The project demonstrates what demanding material applications require: precise analysis, in-depth material expertise and engineering consistently tailored to real operating conditions.

Are you facing similar challenges with corrosive, abrasive or highly adhesive bulk materials?

Download our case study to learn more about the customised grab solution.

Christian Grundmann strengthens METZEN in Dedusting Technology

Written by Lilan Abuzed on . Posted in All topics, Careers.

We are delighted to welcome Christian Grundmann to METZEN!

As a Senior Engineer for Dedusting Technology at our Beckum site, Christian Grundmann brings decades of experience and in depth expertise to our team. He supports customers in developing, optimising and implementing tailored plant solutions.

His strength lies in translating complex requirements into efficient and sustainable concepts that match specific operating conditions and production processes. He brings experience in modern dedusting systems, compact filter systems and energy efficient solutions to reduce compressed air consumption.

With his eye for innovative approaches, solution oriented mindset and clear focus on customer satisfaction, Christian Grundmann makes a valuable contribution to demanding customer projects.

 

Steinklänge at Kiespeter: Where music, industry and meaningful connections come together

Written by Ines Luther on . Posted in All topics, Conveying Technology, Corporate, Grab Technology, Uncategorized.

Unusual venues often create the most memorable encounters. This was clearly demonstrated at the Steinklänge double concert held at Kiespeter’s gravel quarry.

As a sponsor, KRÖGER Grab Technology, a METZEN product brand, was represented by our Senior Engineer, Klaus Reichel. Surrounded by conveying equipment, towering gravel stockpiles and warm summer temperatures, the event provided a unique setting for personal conversations with customers, partners and industry peers.

It was precisely this combination of industry, culture and regional community spirit that made the evening so special. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged open discussions, brought together professionals from across the aggregates industry and opened up new perspectives. Rather than focusing on formal business meetings, the emphasis was on personal connections, shared interests and conversations built on trust.

For METZEN, events like these are about far more than sponsorship. They strengthen dialogue within the region and create relationships that often extend well beyond the event itself. After all, successful collaboration begins with mutual trust and open, respectful communication between equals.

Our sincere thanks go to the Kiespeter team for their excellent organisation and for successfully bringing together industry, culture and networking. We are delighted to have been part of such a special event.

METZEN Annual Meeting: Strategy thrives on dialogue. Innovation thrives on collaboration.

Written by Ines Luther on . Posted in All topics, Corporate, Uncategorized.

At this year’s Annual Meeting in Alsfeld, the focus was on the strategic development of our Group and, above all, on strengthening collaboration across our locations. After all, the best solutions for our customers are created when people share their knowledge, bring different perspectives together and trust one another.

The event began with the METZENpiade. Despite the exceptionally high summer temperatures, it brought together managers and senior engineers from all our locations in mixed teams. Collaborative challenges strengthened team spirit, encouraged the exchange of ideas and created new connections.

Building on this team spirit, the second day turned to strategy and innovation. Following updates on the Group’s business performance and strategic direction from CFO Nico Reimers, CEO Ramin Ghalibaf and CSO Lars Netzel, AI expert and former professional athlete Mare Hojč shared his insights into how artificial intelligence and strong teamwork can help make businesses fit for the future.

A change of perspective: a day in manufacturing

Written by Ines Luther on . Posted in All topics, Careers, Corporate, Uncategorized.

What does a typical working day look like for our colleagues on the shop floor?

To gain a deeper understanding of our products, processes and the day-to-day work of our colleagues, our Senior Marketing & Communications Manager, Magdalena Szatkowska, spent a day in the manufacturing department at KRÖGER Greifertechnik in Sonsbeck.

Under the expert guidance of the team, she gained valuable insights into various production stages and even had the opportunity to try her hand at welding. The direct exchange on site once again highlighted the wealth of experience, precision and craftsmanship that goes into our products.

For authentic and credible communication, it is essential not only to talk about our achievements, but also to truly understand the people, expertise and processes behind them. Experiencing a different perspective fosters a deeper appreciation of the challenges faced in manufacturing while also strengthening collaboration across different areas of the business.

A big thank you to the team in Sonsbeck for their warm welcome, their time and the valuable insights they shared.

A change of perspective: a day in manufacturing

Written by Ines Luther on . Posted in All topics, Grab Technology, Uncategorized.

What does a typical working day look like for our colleagues on the shop floor?

To gain a deeper understanding of our products, processes and the day-to-day work of our colleagues, our Senior Marketing & Communications Manager, Magdalena Szatkowska, spent a day in the manufacturing department at KRÖGER Greifertechnik in Sonsbeck.

Under the expert guidance of the team, she gained valuable insights into various production stages and even had the opportunity to try her hand at welding. The direct exchange on site once again highlighted the wealth of experience, precision and craftsmanship that goes into our products.

For authentic and credible communication, it is essential not only to talk about our achievements, but also to truly understand the people, expertise and processes behind them. Experiencing a different perspective fosters a deeper appreciation of the challenges faced in manufacturing while also strengthening collaboration across different areas of the business.

A big thank you to the team in Sonsbeck for their warm welcome, their time and the valuable insights they shared.

Customised grab technology for modern biomass plants

Written by Ines Luther on . Posted in All topics, Conveying Technology, Grab Technology, Uncategorized.

Wood chips are a challenging bulk material to handle. The finer and drier the material, the greater the demands placed on the grab technology used, particularly when reliable and largely automated plant operation is required. For a biomass heating plant, KRÖGER, a product brand of METZEN, therefore developed a tailor-made solution specifically designed to meet the application’s unique requirements.

To address these challenges, the KRÖGER team of experts worked closely with the customer to develop a customised grab solution. Overlapping tines reduce the gaps between the grab shells, minimising material losses during handling. A specially designed sealed bearing system with aluminium-bronze bearing shells ensures reliable operation, even in dry and dusty environments. The solution is further enhanced by IO-Link-enabled analogue sensors, which continuously transmit process data to the plant control system and support automated operation.

The result is a grab solution that handles material efficiently, reduces maintenance requirements and reliably meets the demands of modern automated biomass plants – cost-effective, durable and future-ready.

After Sales: Greater availability, higher efficiency, long term reliability

Written by Ines Luther on . Posted in All topics, Conveying Technology, Corporate, Energy, Environmental Technology, Grab Technology, Uncategorized.

To ensure that machinery and industrial plants continue to operate efficiently, reliably and profitably over the long term, METZEN is strategically expanding its After Sales division. With Olaf Köster as Director After Sales, the company is strengthening its expertise in spare parts management, maintenance, asset servicing, plant modernisation and technical support, providing customers with even more comprehensive support throughout the entire lifecycle of their equipment.

The true performance of machinery is not determined at commissioning, but during day-to-day operation. Unplanned downtime, increasing efficiency requirements and growing cost pressures present operators with significant challenges. This is where professional after-sales services create real added value.

“Our goal is not to support customers only when a problem occurs. We want to make plant availability predictable and work closely with our customers to unlock long-term efficiency potential.”

Olaf Köster, Director After Sales, METZEN Industrie Service

Spare Parts Management: Respond Quickly, Minimise Downtime

When a production line comes to a standstill, every minute counts. METZEN supports its customers with the rapid sourcing and supply of spare and wear parts. Fast response times, a strong supplier network and the targeted assessment of critical components help minimise production interruptions and ensure long-term plant availability.

Together with plant operators, METZEN develops tailored spare parts strategies to reduce risks at an early stage and improve supply security over the long term.

Benefits for operators:

  • Reduced response and downtime periods
  • Improved supply security
  • Planned spare parts strategies
  • Greater production reliability

Maintenance and Asset Servicing: Ensuring Reliable Plant Operation

Regular maintenance and servicing activities form the foundation of safe and efficient plant operation. METZEN assesses equipment conditions, identifies wear at an early stage and develops customised maintenance concepts to prevent failures, increase operational reliability and safeguard long-term plant performance.

Benefits for operators:

  • Increased operational reliability
  • Fewer unplanned shutdowns
  • Extended asset lifespan
  • Improved planning of maintenance activities and costs

Plant Modernisation: Future-Proofing Existing Investments

Not every technical challenge requires a new investment. METZEN supports companies in adapting existing plants to new requirements and enhancing their technical capabilities. Through component upgrades, the integration of new plant sections or modifications to changing production processes, existing systems can often be optimised cost-effectively.

Targeted modernisation measures help secure investments over the long term while improving productivity, energy efficiency and operational reliability.

Benefits for operators:

  • Extended plant service life
  • Increased productivity and efficiency
  • Improved operational reliability
  • Protection of existing investments

Technical Support and Maintenance Assistance: Fast Help When It Matters Most

Downtime, repairs and personnel shortages often require fast and flexible solutions. With experienced specialists for installation, maintenance and technical service assignments, METZEN provides support exactly where it is needed. Whether carrying out planned maintenance work, plant modifications or responding to unexpected faults, METZEN’s teams ensure efficient execution while keeping downtime to a minimum.

By combining technical expertise with hands-on experience, METZEN offers customers rapid support and a reliable partner for long-term plant operation.

Benefits for operators:

  • Fast support in the event of faults and repairs
  • Flexible personnel support during capacity shortages
  • Specialist expertise for installation and maintenance work
  • Reduced downtime
  • Increased operational reliability and plant availability

After Sales as Added Value for Customers

A strong after-sales service helps ensure stable production processes, reduces operational risks and improves the long-term profitability of industrial plants. For this reason, METZEN develops tailored service concepts covering everything from spare parts supply and maintenance through to plant modernisation and technical support services.

Through the strategic expansion of its After Sales division, METZEN is strengthening customer support across the entire plant lifecycle. Sustainable success is built on more than high-performance machinery alone—it requires a partner committed to maintaining that performance over the long term.

This is exactly what METZEN stands for with its full lifecycle approach—from planning and manufacturing through installation and commissioning, and far beyond.

METZEN promotes Povilas Keveza to Director Technical Operations in Bitburg and Erkelenz

Written by Ines Luther on . Posted in All topics, Careers.

As part of the continued professionalisation of its technical and operational organisation, METZEN is strengthening its leadership structure at its Bitburg and Erkelenz locations: Povilas Keveza has been appointed Director Technical Operations with immediate effect.

Since joining METZEN in 2020, Povilas Keveza has supported numerous demanding customer projects in various technical leadership roles and has established himself as a key link between engineering and manufacturing. His extensive experience in mechanical and plant engineering, combined with his deep understanding of complex technical processes across the entire value chain, makes him a pivotal appointment for the continued scaling of METZEN’s technical organisation.

In his new role, he will be responsible for the operational technical organisation, with a focus on process stability, efficiency improvements and technical excellence. At the same time, cross-functional collaboration will be further strengthened to deliver projects faster, more flexibly and with even greater reliability, while identifying technical challenges at an early stage and resolving them sustainably.

The development of robust processes, clear responsibilities and streamlined decision-making structures forms a key part of METZEN’s ongoing growth. For the company, technical excellence means not only developing innovative plant engineering solutions, but also delivering them with a high level of reliability, quality and operational strength.

“Sustainable technical solutions emerge where experience, accountability and a strong execution mindset come together in high-performing teams,” says Povilas Keveza, describing his leadership philosophy.

With his practical approach, structured way of working and extensive technical expertise, Povilas Keveza will play a key role in shaping METZEN’s continued development.