Innovation and Efficiency with 15 Years of Experience: The Partnership between Würth Industry and Siemens Energy

The partnership between Würth Industry Hungary and Siemens Energy Distribution Transformers Ltd. has been strengthening the reliable operation of the Hungarian industry for more than 15 years. The collaboration began in 2008 when we installed the first Kanban system in Csepel, and since then, we have continuously evolved, adapting to the dynamic needs of production. Initially, the cooperation started with Siemens Ltd., and as the company grew, the energy production division separated under the name Siemens Energy Ltd., and in 2024, transformer manufacturing became a separate entity under the name Siemens Energy DT Ltd.

Siemens

More than a Supplier Relationship: Partnership Across Europe

The cooperation between Siemens and Würth Industry is not limited to Hungary but is also a significant strategic partnership across Europe. In Siemens' 65-year-old transformer factory, Würth Industry plays a key role as a supplier of direct and indirect materials. Direct materials include products that are directly integrated into production, while indirect materials are supplementary items necessary for operation.

The developments not only involve technological innovations but also the joint efforts of Siemens Energy and Würth teams, who are dedicated to working towards more efficient and sustainable operations.

New Directions and Innovation Since 2021

In September 2021, the collaboration entered a new phase. After a long series of negotiations, an important service was introduced at the end of 2023: instead of the traditional gas-powered brake cleaner, we installed the REFILLO®mat refillable system, which, in addition to significant savings, also contributed to the environmentally friendly operation of the production halls.

Simultaneously, the modernization of existing Kanban systems began, transitioning from the previous scanning solution to CPS®RFID technology. Today, RFID-based shelving systems have been installed at multiple points in every hall, storing products relevant exclusively to the given production unit and ensuring their continuous availability.

Siemens Kanbans

From Consignment Warehouse to Automated Inventory Management

In June 2024, the management of consignment stock underwent significant transformation. Previously, it was necessary to manually check 600-650 items weekly and set optimal minimum-maximum stock levels, followed by monthly inventory and accounting. However, the system was not entirely transparent, and overuse and undocumented stock movements were also problematic.

The solution was comprehensive automation: currently, we operate 15 ORSY®mat vending machines at Siemens' Csepel site, several of which operate in a special, air-conditioned, 20-foot container. The vending machines, with their scale and RFID-based operation, track stock movements in real-time, ensuring 24/7 access and accurate consumption accounting.

During the use of the vending machines, users must identify themselves with an RFID card, thereby tightening access and reducing material handling losses. Our ORSY®mat CHE hazardous material vending machine ensures a safe working environment with continuous air filtration and carbon filter technology.

Efficiency Improvement and Time Savings

Thanks to automated inventory management, the working hours freed up for Siemens Energy can be used to increase efficiency.

Continuous Developments and Future Plans

Through continuous consultations between Würth Industry and Siemens, the systems are constantly being expanded and fine-tuned. The further development of the Kanban system was realized in the spring of 2024 with the transition to CPS®RFID (iSHELF®) technology, and we are introducing further automation solutions to increase the efficiency of the plant.

The introduction of innovative solutions is beneficial for Siemens Energy, as it increases supply security, transparency, and efficiency, and for Würth Industry Hungary, as it can build a long-term, stable customer relationship. The 15-year partnership with Siemens Energy embodies this continuous development and mutual trust.

In the coming years, we aim to move towards digital data collection and predictive inventory management to respond even more accurately to the dynamics of production.