Haerter Stamping LLC: ARKU Maschinenbau GmbH

Härter Stamping LLC is leading in demanding stamping parts –Customers count on precision and flexibility

Kentwood/ USA – »We have to be present where our customers are«, stated plant manager Richard Pfetsch when asked why he wanted to establish a stamping plant in the US. »This makes our American customers plan with the same precision, availability and efficiency which Härter is known for in Europe.« Härter is a step above the rest in progressive tool design and construction. Assembling and threading integrated to the stamping process allow a highly automated and very efficient production, ensured by an excellent die shop. A modular design of the tools makes a very quick start-up of production series and low maintenance times possible.

The success story started in 2001 when Härter established the production of automotive components for its customers in the USA. Today 65 employees run several stamping presses from 25 to 350 tons, producing high precision parts mostly for the automotive and telecommunication industry. With the third stage of expansion a 350 ton Minster press – fed by an ARKU press feeding line – has recently been installed. The line is equipped with a 21 roller leveler for high leveling accuracy during the stamping process. But the heart of the line is an innovative strip-end welding machine provided by ARKU. By connecting the end of a coil with the beginning, downtimes and risk of die damage during startup of a new coil are reduced drastically. The line produces seat slides for the major US car manufacturer, which is delivered as a complete unit by Härter. Other products will consequently be produced more efficiently on the same line. Richard Pfetsch gives an optimistic forecast for Härter, especially in the North American market: »We are very prepared for further growth and recognize a mega trend for highly precise integrated stamping parts which will continue in the future.«