The new facility expands the existing Oberopfingen site by approximately 46,000 square meters with the addition of three halls and two administration buildings. This move brings all business areas together from the company’s original site in Kirchdorf an der Iller, a step Liebherr says will create higher efficiency and an optimal supply chain. The company also notes the move creates capacity for further growth at its hydraulic excavator facility.
The project involved relocating 33 machines while maintaining ongoing production and investing in around 20 new machines and equipment. The new space is designed to improve production and its processes. Features of the updated facility include a modern automated sawing center and a central cooling lubricant supply for metal-cutting machines.
"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 at the components site, in a press release.
The new building complex incorporates several sustainability features and the site has been certified in accordance with DIN EN ISO 50001. A heat pump and waste heat insulation have been installed, powered mainly by a rooftop photovoltaic system with 1,768 solar panels. The facility also uses a heat recovery system to transfer heat from production equipment to air-condition the halls and an evaporation system to recycle and treat used water.
The hydraulics site in Oberopfingen now employs around 550 people. "This project would not have been possible without the commitment of our employees and thorough project organisation," added Thomas Sonntag, managing director for administration and sales in Oberopfingen. "We can now provide our customers and partners with the best possible service and expand our product range at the same time."
