German-based ERGE specializes in the production of components for plastics processing machines such as injection molding machines, extruders, etc. The company demonstrated the whole range of products at Fakuma 2018, including the best seller - ceramic insulating heaters for injection molding.

According to Tobias Schneider, Sales Director, this year is a very good year as ERGE and many of its customers are operating in full production capacity. The company recorded an increase of 17% in sales for last year, and is expecting to achieve an increase of 8% for this year.

“Haitian has been our customer since last year. Their site in Germany is not far away from our production center. We also produce in China. Therefore, we are working with Haitian in Germany and China now,” he explained.

ERGE is now further exploring the niche market segment of high temperature applications. The company considers this is a very good business opportunity, and is working closely with universities on new solutions.

As more new materials, which are high performance with strong properties, are emerging, the demand for high temperature applications is on the rise. Two years ago, ERGE had about 10 types of high heating components, and has about 200 types now.

“For new materials, the industry standard working temperature of 400℃ is not high enough. Therefore, we are working on up to 800℃ special solutions now,” explained Tobias Schneider. “For example, magnesium is a special material and needs 750℃working temperature. Many companies are trying this material in injection molding, but it is still in the beginning phase.”

He also added that most machine manufacturers do not produce these components in-house because it involves big effort and many tests. Therefore, the manufacturers have to outsource and find external suppliers.

“New high temperature technology is also suitable for many chemical and materials handling applications, and not just injection molding,” he emphasized.

Besides high temperature application, Industry 4.0 is another focus of ERGE. The company is working on digitalization to facilitate smart data connection for its customers.

ERGE began production of electric products in 1927, and made the first flexible ceramic insulating heater which has become a standard accessory of many machines. In 2006, the company established a subsidiary in Haiyan, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province in China. The subsidiary produces and serves customers in China and Asia.