Bender GmbH & Co. KG has invested in a cutting-edge production line for electronic assemblies. This expansion increases the flexibility of the site in both end-device production and PCB manufacturing. By modernizing and digitalizing production processes, the company is establishing a future-proof foundation to respond more efficiently to the demands of a dynamic market.
Restructuring End-Device Production: Efficiency and Process Optimization
As part of the restructuring, all production cells will be relocated to an optimized environment in an adjacent hall. This realignment improves product distribution and process control within the production cells. The removal of the existing transfer system creates space for a more flexible infrastructure and allows for the integration of modern logistics solutions, including automated guided vehicles (AGVs). This enables automated and efficient material flow within the production halls.
"With this investment, we are laying the foundation for a future-proof production that not only optimizes our internal workflows but, most importantly, benefits our customers. Shorter development cycles, greater flexibility, and improved quality allow us to respond even faster and more efficiently to the demands of a dynamic market while delivering innovative solutions," says Christian Jerkel from Bender.
Implementation of a New Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
The digital transformation of production control is being significantly enhanced by implementing a new Manufacturing Execution System (MES). This system replaces the previous solution and connects all new PCB manufacturing equipment directly. It also provides advanced reporting and data analysis capabilities, allowing for real-time production performance evaluation. Greater transparency and more precise control improve efficiency and ensure consistently high quality and delivery reliability for our customers.
Expanding PCB Manufacturing: Growth and Qualification at the Site
Another key aspect of this investment is the establishment of an in-house PCB manufacturing facility. This new production line will enable the company to manufacture and qualify assemblies on-site while offering additional capacity for new developments. The optimized production environment increases redundancy and capacity within the existing PCB production, ensuring a sustainable expansion of manufacturing capabilities.
Collaboration with Fuji Europe Corporation and COLCO Prozessberatung GbR
The successful implementation of this project was made possible through close collaboration with Fuji Europe Corporation and COLCO Prozessberatung GbR. Fuji Europe provided the state-of-the-art SMT (Surface Mount Technology) systems that will be used at Bender. Additionally, COLCO Prozessberatung GbR contributed its expertise in analyzing, optimizing, and restructuring production processes, ensuring a seamless integration of the new production solutions.
"We are pleased to support Bender GmbH & Co. KG with our advanced SMT solutions and automation expertise in this groundbreaking project. The new production line demonstrates how modern technology can help companies enhance their processes, remain competitive, and align with Industry 4.0," says Klaus Kölbel, Head of Sales at Fuji Europe Corporation.
"Only through the excellent collaboration with Bender’s team across all phases of the assembly restructuring—conceptualization, detailed planning, and implementation—were we able to successfully complete the project on time and within budget," says Wolfram von der Gathen, Project Manager and Managing Partner at COLCO Prozessberatung GbR.
This investment in the new PCB production line underscores Bender’s commitment to innovation at its site and lays the foundation for a sustainable and competitive future.
About Fuji Europe Corporation
Fuji Europe Corporation, based in Kelsterbach, Germany, is part of the global Fuji Corporation and specializes in SMT technologies and automation solutions. The company is renowned for its high-quality products used in industries such as automotive, medical technology, and consumer electronics. Fuji’s innovative approach helps customers worldwide future-proof their production processes.
About COLCO Prozessberatung GbR
"Engineers developing production—honest and real." Since its founding in 1992, COLCO has successfully supported hundreds of projects, optimized processes, and helped businesses achieve greater success. The company specializes in practical process optimization, valued by businesses for its pragmatic approach that delivers maximum results with minimal resource investment and without unnecessary detours.