Breitenfeld Edelstahl AG launches one of the largest projects in recent years: the construction of a new hall and the installation of a 40MN forging press with two forging furnaces.
The company is thus significantly expanding its capacities and providing its customers with clear advantages - shorter delivery times, more flexibility and new product dimensions. At the same time, it is a commitment to the location and to long-term competitiveness.
Why Breitenfeld is investing in a new forging press
In economically uncertain times, many companies opt for restraint. Breitenfeld is taking a different approach. CTO Andreas Graf explains the reasons:
"Our aim is to offer our customers the greatest possible flexibility - especially for large parts. With the new forging press, we can reduce our dependence on external forging partners and expand our product portfolio at the same time."
The investment follows a clear plan: the competitiveness of the St. Barbara-Mitterdorf site is to be secured in the long term, dependence on external services reduced and delivery performance further improved. For customers, this means more planning security, shorter delivery times and the opportunity to implement projects in new dimensions.
Key technical data of the new plant
The new 40MN forging press has a pressing force of around 4,000 tons. In future, it will be able to process steel blocks of up to 25 tons. This opens up completely new dimensions:
- Large shafts up to 10 meters long
- Heavier ingots weighing up to 25 tons each
- More extensive product variety from ED1000 blocks (ESU) to A2150 (conventional)
The press is supplemented by two modern forging furnaces, which ensure efficient heat treatment. The new construction of a separate hall between the existing production halls 5 and 5Z creates the necessary infrastructure. This ensures seamless integration into the existing production processes.
Challenges and project planning
A project of this size requires meticulous planning. CFO Huberta Eder-Karner emphasizes:
"We had to ensure that ongoing production was affected as little as possible. That's why close collaboration with internal teams, external partners and specialist offices was crucial."
Project schedule at a glance
- Summer 2025: Start of assembly of the used, modernized press
- Fall 2025: Delivery of the main components
- Spring 2026: Completion of the installation
- 2nd quarter 2026: Planned commissioning
The work on the foundations and the laying of supply lines (water, electricity) are particularly challenging. All measures will be coordinated so that production can continue without major interruptions.
Advantages for customers: shorter delivery times, more flexibility, new dimensions
The new infrastructure brings clear added value for customers:
- Shorter delivery times thanks to higher capacity and better planning capability
- Greater flexibility for deadlines and special projects
- New product dimensions for XXL components and offset shafts
- Greater security of supply thanks to less dependence on external forges
CTO Andreas Graf adds:
"In future, we will be able to manufacture products that were previously not possible or only possible to a limited extent. This opens up completely new perspectives for our customers - both in existing markets and in new segments."
Initial inquiries from the energy technology, aviation and special machine construction sectors confirm the potential. These industries place the highest demands on size, quality and documentation - requirements that Breitenfeld can meet with ease with the new press.
Significance for the location, employees and region
The investment not only has a technological aspect, but also a social one. CFO Huberta Eder-Karner explains:
"With the new forging press, we are securing jobs in the long term and sustainably strengthening the industrial location of St. Barbara-Mitterdorf. Our employees benefit from secure jobs and a modern working environment."
Suppliers and partner companies from the region will also benefit, as additional orders will be placed and partnerships will be strengthened. The project therefore not only contributes to the economic stability of the company, but also to regional value creation.
A look into the future: Breitenfeld's strategy
The new forging press is part of a larger development plan. Further investments in infrastructure, digitalization and process optimization are already in preparation. The aim is to map a complete value chain in-house - from steel production to remelting (ESR, VAR) and mechanical processing.
Andreas Graf summarizes:
"We think long-term. Our customers should be able to rely on us to provide them with the highest quality and punctual deliveries at all times. The new forging press is a milestone - but certainly not the last."
Conclusion
With the new 40MN forging press and the new hall construction, Breitenfeld Edelstahl AG is sending out a strong signal: investments in technology, capacity and location are the basis for future growth.
Customers benefit from greater flexibility, shorter delivery times and new product dimensions. The region benefits from jobs and added value.
And Breitenfeld itself strengthens its role as one of the leading suppliers of high-quality stainless steel and forged products.
