Quick and courageous action by the local fire services prevented the worst during the blaze at Hennecke's research center ('TECHCENTER') at the Sankt Augustin site in summer 2020. Fortunately the fire did not cause any injuries or environmental damage. Due to the direct damage to the building and the indirect damage to the machine and plant technology, only emergency operations could be carried out for selected applications following the fire.
The extensive restoration work was completed in January. The team of application specialists and technicians are delighted that all applications areas in the Hennecke TECHCENTER are now fully available again. Hennecke also used the post-fire restoration work to expand capacities for customers and development partners. In line with the Hennecke Production System (HPS) - a modernized version of the well-known lean production system - the available space has been enhanced using modern shop floor management. This has led to better utilization and shorter distances within the 1000 square meter hall.
Many customers have also been eagerly awaiting the complete resumption of operations at the TECHCENTER. Work has already begun on the first product developments and trials. Customer demand remains high despite the restrictions of the corona pandemic. Testing capacities at the TECHCENTER in the first quarter of the year are already full.