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Rolf Kind GmbH : Thriving on the
As a forging specialist , Rolf Kind focuses on overcoming the limitations of conventional forging through innovation and highly efficient production methods . With an active research and development team , Rolf Kind keeps its eyes firmly on the future . I spoke with CEO Markus Kind about the company ’ s impressive global reach , its affinity for challenging projects , and its custom heat exchanger solutions .
Rolf Kind ’ s Managing Directors Markus Kind ( left ) and Ralf Kind ( right ). By Ellie Pritchard
Founded in 1969 , Rolf Kind is a family-led company , passed down to Markus and Ralf Kind from their father . For 53 years , the company has specialised in the manufacture of larger-sized open die forgings , specifically in stainless steels , nickel-based alloys , and titanium-based alloys . Recently relocated to Lindlar Kaiserau , roughly 40km from Cologne , the company ’ s 85 + employees can now work closely together in a brand-new headquarters . This more centralised way of working enables smooth operation and logistics as the company produces products for the oil and gas , ( petro ) chemical , marine , food and other sectors .
The Rolf Kind way We begin by discussing Kind ’ s unique position in the market . Generally speaking , most manufacturers of open die forgings work with standard materials such as carbon steels , whereas Kind seeks out projects requiring specialty services in stainless and alloy-based steels . “ We have a completely different way of working ,” explains Markus .
“ Our process is customisable thanks to our network of partners with various expertise .” Kind does not run its own forging press , but instead uses forging equipment on an ‘ as-need ’ basis , depending on the customer ’ s request . “ We can choose the best forging equipment for the part needed ,” says Markus . “ This is certainly unusual in our market , but it enables us to take on unique projects and gives our team excellent experience working with various machines and product requirements .” “ We can use the specialities of each of our partners in a very practical way ; one may be very good in long shafts , another is best in forged discs , another in pierced pieces , and the next has a specialism in larger hot rolled rings . So , we can always choose the right equipment for the right forging .” This process allows the Rolf Kind team to focus on its key competencies , being special materials and large parts . The company prides itself on delivering the largest pieces forged from the most complicated materials such as corrosion resistant stainless steel , nickel alloys , and titanium . For many of its capabilities , Kind is confident it is operat-
8 Heat Exchanger World October 2022 www . heat-exchanger-world . com