Krapohl-Wirth Foundry Consulting GmbH: Shaping the future
The company specialises in solving technical, economic and environmental challenges, utilising innovation and in-depth industry knowledge to optimise processes and strengthen its clients’ competitiveness.
At the start of 2024, KW ushered in a new era with a generational change in its management. This milestone not only marks a significant step in the company’s development, but also provides an opportunity to reflect on KW’s journey and its future direction with the founders, Dr Hans-Peter Krapohl and Wolfgang Wirth.
- Dr Krapohl and Mr Wirth, how has KW developed since its foundation, and where does the company stand today?
When we, the namesakes of KW, founded the company, the foundry industry was facing declining demand and significant cost pressures. Our focus was on creating genuine added value through innovative and flexible approaches. Over the years, thanks to our technological expertise, in-depth industry knowledge and targeted investments in modern tools and methods, we have developed into an internationally recognised consultancy firm. Today, we successfully deliver global projects aimed at promoting efficiency and sustainability, which play a key role in the planning of new foundry facilities.
- What sets KW apart, and what strategies have underpinned your success?
Our strength lies in the combination of technical excellence, bespoke solutions and close collaboration with our clients. We prioritise sustainability and digital transformation to develop future-proof strategies. Among the key factors behind our success are our in-depth industry knowledge, our ability to put innovative technologies into practice, and our unwavering commitment to quality. We know how to get things done by drawing on a deep understanding of processes.
- Which projects have left a particular impression on you?
One notable example was the modernisation of an international foundry, where we were able to achieve significant energy savings and increases in production through the use of data-driven analytics and AI tools. Our approach, based on flexible production concepts, enabled the client to adapt seamlessly to fluctuating conditions in the supply chain without compromising productivity. These projects demonstrate how innovative approaches can deliver both technical and economic benefits.
A dynamic consultancy approach
- How is KW addressing the current challenges facing the industry?
The foundry industry is undergoing a profound transformation, ranging from digitalisation and sustainability requirements to geopolitical uncertainties. Our response to this is a dynamic consultancy approach that combines agility with long-term strategies. We support our clients in implementing technological innovations such as predictive maintenance, energy-efficient and resource-optimised processes, and CO₂ reduction initiatives.
- How do you see the future of the foundry industry in Germany and Europe?
The foundry industry will continue to be of great importance, particularly in the automotive, energy and mechanical engineering sectors. Germany and Europe will maintain their competitive edge through quality leadership and innovation. At the same time, new markets are emerging in regions with growing industrial demand. Sustainability, digitalisation and the circular economy will be the key themes for the sector.
This requires innovative, flexible and adaptable entrepreneurs who are prepared to implement new technologies – qualities that are still abundant in Europe. This spirit and this pace, which we have seen in recent years particularly in Asia, must be reignited in Europe with determination.
- How is KW currently positioned, and what role will it play in the future?
With the generational change in leadership, KW is ideally positioned for the future. Our 24 employees operate worldwide and bring expertise in all areas of the process. The new management team, consisting of Jan-Christoph Schwarck, Carsten Engelke and Andreas Sindel, brings fresh perspectives and a clear vision. Wolfgang Wirth and I will continue to provide support in an advisory capacity and draw on our experience in key projects to drive the company’s strategic development and support our customers with foundry expertise.
Thank you for the insightful conversation. All the best!
The interview was conducted by Thomas Fritsch, Editor-in-Chief of Foundry-Planet.
Source: BDG