________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
In August 2024 , Schuler North America announced a significant expansion to its Hydroforming Production Center , which already hosts 3500- ton and 8500-ton hydroforming presses , with the latter being the largest press of its kind in the US . On the cusp of this announcement , we speak with Klaus Hertell , Vice President of Hydroforming , and Jaime Israel , Marketing and Communications Manager , about the company ’ s recent investments and its evolution in the region .
“ Schuler Incorporated was founded in 1961 as the American subsidiary of Schuler Group . The Schuler North American headquarters opened in Canton , Michigan back in 2001 . Our next big milestone was in 2013 , when ANDRITZ became Schuler ’ s majority shareholder ,” Klaus begins . “ Throughout these changes , we ’ ve remained true to our core values of passion , partnership , perspectives , and versatility , which are visibly expressed through our core behaviors : customer focus , shared commitment , ownership for performance , and openness .
New technologies
“ At its core , Schuler is an equipment supplier in all areas of forming , from the networked press to press shop planning . Our North American facility offers new equipment , spare parts , and a portfolio of lifecycle services for all press systems , including preventative maintenance , press shop design and optimization , turnkey installations , retrofits for existing systems , and localized production and service . Our best-in-class position in the metalworking and materials industry serves automotive manufacturers and tier suppliers , as well as battery , home appliance , electronics , forging , and other industries .”
Schuler ’ s Hydroforming Production Center is a full-service provider and offers Tier 1-3 parts production , hydroforming dies , design recommendations , FEA analysis and simulation , prototyping , and minor assembly .
“ We ’ re expanding the center by 10,000 square feet , which will provide the space for a new 5000-ton hydroforming press , bending cell , and automation technology ,” Klaus explains . “ This significant investment is part of our strategic growth plan to increase our production capabilities for our customers .
“ The new press is currently being manufactured in Brazil by Schuler Group subsidiary , Prensas Schuler and is scheduled to arrive in January 2025 . With advanced controls and hydraulics , the new press will provide greater flexibility and enable us to better serve our customers . We ’ re constantly exploring ways to improve our products and test new technologies . The new press will improve cycle time , result in
108