The expansion consolidates mechanical manufacturing operations at the Oberopfingen site, adding 46,000 square meters of production and administration space to boost hydraulic cylinder production capacity.
Liebherr-Components Kirchdorf GmbH has completed a three-year construction and relocation project, opening a new hydraulic cylinder manufacturing facility in Oberopfingen, Germany. The expansion adds approximately 46,000 square meters of production and administration areas to the existing site.
The project consolidates the company's mechanical manufacturing operations, previously split between Kirchdorf an der Iller and Oberopfingen, into a single location. The move involved relocating 33 machines during ongoing production and investing in 20 new machines and equipment.
"We are delighted that after almost seven years, in which we had to overcome the challenges of managing two production sites at a time, we do not only have our entire workforce under one roof, but also an opportunity to properly position ourselves for the future," said Ulrich Hammerle, Managing Director for Production and Technology.
The new complex includes three production halls and two administration buildings, designed to improve production efficiency and shorten lead times. Key features include a modern automated sawing center and central cooling lubricant supply system for metal-cutting machines.
Sustainability Measures Drive Energy Efficiency
The facility incorporates comprehensive energy management systems, earning DIN EN ISO50001 certification this year. A 1,768-panel rooftop solar array generates electricity on-site, while heat recovery systems use waste heat from production equipment to climate-control the halls.
Additional sustainability features include waste heat insulation, heat pumps and a modern evaporation system for water recycling and treatment, reducing overall wastewater output.
Strategic Consolidation Enables Growth
The consolidation creates additional capacity at Liebherr's hydraulic excavator facility while optimizing the supply chain for hydraulic cylinder production. The Oberopfingen site now employs approximately 550 people across all operations.
"This project would not have been possible without the commitment of our employees and thorough project organization. Thanks to this joint effort, the relocation went very smoothly," said Thomas Sonntag, Managing Director for Administration and Sales. "We can now provide our customers and partners with the best possible service and expand our product range at the same time."
The Liebherr family inaugurated the facility in November 2025, with local government officials attending the ceremony. The expansion reinforces Liebherr's commitment to its components product segment and positions the company for future growth in the hydraulic cylinder market.
