New building An update - High contact count - MPE-Garry GmbH
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Issue 51
04 | 2021
New building
An update
High contact
count
M16 connector
Anniversary
10 years of
binder Sweden
COMMENT EDITORIAL
Time for change Looking forward
Change marks the beginning Dear reader,
of something new. Orders have been very strong in 2021, which meant that staff who
had seen their hours cut brought back to full-time duty. This gives
us courage and confidence to continue on our charted course.
The current situation demands that changes be made that have an impact on our everyday Sadly, we remain subject to the restrictions imposed due to
lives, on our work, on how we spend our leisure time and on us personally. Covid-19 both in our personal and professional lives. We have
systematically adopted measures designed to protect our
Every change comes with a new set of challenges, which forces us to step outside our comfort employees’ health. Among others, we procured 15,000 self-tests
zone. This requires an active effort on our part. before the German government issued a mandate requiring
companies to do so (see page 10 for more information).
We believe in the importance of change. Change is necessary in order to grow and develop,
and we have to be open to it. We are making excellent progress in moving staff into our
production and logistics centre at the Neckarsulm site. Several
On that note! departments have already begun working at the new building,
whose unique design makes it an architectural highlight on
Marketing Rötelstrasse in Neckarsulm.
Another story that will be covered in this issue of verbinder is
the 10th anniversary of binder Sweden. We’ll also be reporting
on our M16 connectors and the central role social media plays
at binder. Finally, you can also find a fantastic interview with
binder USA in this edition.
The verbinder Your opinion counts
is also online Let’s work together to meet the challenges that lie ahead.
We are often to suggestions, ideas and
Missed the last issue of the verbinder? No every form of criticism – both positive and
problem – the digital edition brings the negative – because it is only by keeping
magazine’s topics to your smartphone, a dialogue going that the verbinder will Happy reading!
tablet or PC. keep its dynamic quality. Kindest regards,
www.binder-connector.com/de/ So be brave and tell us what you think
news-presse/kundenmagazin- of the verbinder:
verbinder
marketing@binder-connector.de Markus Binder
Tel. +49 (0) 71 32 325-302 General Manager
3
CONTENT CONTENT
Content
Injection moulds
Improved plastics
production
Issue 51
22
New building
An architectural M8 cable connector
highlight Reliable EMC
06 18
Social media
Coronavirus pandemic Far more than just
To a job well done a trend
10 30
Tool making MPE-Garry
M16 connector Laser welding binder USA Warehouse binder in figures
High number of contacts at binder Pure identification optimisation A current overview
12 24 32 40 46
Production
M12 A connector Moving to the new Apprenticeships at binder binder Sweden binder cable assemblies
02 Comment
Flexible hybrid solution binder building A prime example Major anniversary Success with EFQM
16 20 28 36 42
03 Editorial
47 Abbinder
47 Credits
4 5
NEWS
Outstanding
eye-catcher
The ceremony to mark the start of construction on the new building
going up at binder headquarters in Neckarsulm was held on 29 March 2019.
Since then, several departments have started work in the new production
and logistics centre. Keep reading to find the latest news, learn what steps
are planned and discover special features of the new building.
Text Patrick Heckler
‘I’m very exciting that we were that the new production and Status update bay warehouse with shuttle floor of the new building was siderations in the design of
able to complete the first logistics centre bring: ‘The has been installed. completed in late April (read the new building. binder re-
phase of construction more new centre will improve the In the first phase of construc- more on page 20). That means cognises its responsibility to
or less on schedule despite workflows and processes at tion, a 14,097-square-metre Moving into the new building 11 departments with a total reduce the amount of green-
Covid-19,’ states Markus Bin- our company now and in the building, measuring 65.6 me- was a complex undertaking staff of around 300 are now house gases it generates in
der, General Manager of the future. It will make us more tres long, 68 metres wide and since we had to ensure a working there. production and is committed
binder group, adding: ‘My competitive while also being 26 metres high, was comple- smooth transfer with no dis- to prioritising the issue. An
deepest gratitude goes out to an architectural highlight that ted. In late 2020, the logistics ruptions to production. The Smart energy concept intelligent room and process
everyone who helped make helps clearly position us as a and dispatch units began task was completed to great cooling system as well as
this happen.’ In follow-up, he company.’ working in the ground floor, success. Transfer of produc- Sustainability and environ- mechanical ventilation of the
describes the advantages where a 27-metre-tall high- tion from Plant 2 to the first mental aspects were key con- entire office and
6 7
NEWS NEWS
production space were some Having the administrative To match the impressive ex-
of the items considered when operations physically – not terior, the interior of the buil-
drawing up the plans for the just metaphorically – so close ding set new standards, with
building. The use of sustain- to production means more high-quality materials to go
able building materials and efficient processes. along with a sleek design.
rollout of digital processes Ultra-modern offices with
also help make binder more a High-quality architecture well-designed ergonomic
more environmentally friendly workstations are complemen-
company. The impressive modern de- ted by innovative production
sign of the building’s exterior facilities and stylish common
This is great for the environ- catches your eye immediately. areas. In short, the design of
ment and for staff who now A total of seven custom-ma- the new centre reflects the
work under better conditions. de sails, each one 20 metres unique commitment to quality
There are a number of ad- tall, were affixed to the glass of the binder brand as well as high-quality architecture, is
vantages first and foremost façade of the building, adding the dynamism and innovati- a clear signal by binder and
for production employees, a new architectural highlight veness of the company. helps set the company apart
thanks to improved lighting to Rötelstrasse in Neckarsulm. in a crowded marketplace.
and air quality as well as The future looks bright The first obstacles have been
a quiet work environment. The Binder family came up overcome and the first mi-
with the basic concept for Now that the first departments lestones reached, with many
the distinctive façade. ‘Our have moved into the new more to follow.
main factory on Rötelstrasse building, other key milestones
is essential in shaping how we are to follow in the months
are viewed as a company. It to come. This summer, the
was therefore really important new canteen, located on the
for us to have an architectural second floor of the structure,
design that is both unique and will be ready for use, with a
individual,’ reports Kim Binder. total capacity of 150. Fresh
The building’s glass faça- meals will be provided by an
de is the creation of Vollack, outside catering firm. When
a company specialised in the canteen opens, the times
methodical building design for lunch breaks will be ad-
concepts. Features like the justed, and a shift system will
perforated steel sails affixed be introduced. The second
to the front of the structure floor will also feature a green
make the building stand out. rooftop deck with seating
‘From day one, we shared a options as well as a workout
common vision on what the room that will be available
building should look like – and for use starting this summer.
this really played off,’ states
Kim Binder. The new building, which
combines sustainability and
8 9
NEWS NEWS
Thermometers that are used to binder has adopted a broad require all persons to wear an
check a person’s temperature range of measures. Here are FFP2 mask when on company
before he or she receives the just a few examples to illustrate property, which was another
Covid-19 vaccine is another this. A Covid-19 plan, which step that proved highly ef-
such example. ‘Our emplo- set out rules of conduct and fective in reducing the risk
yees and I are proud that our provided employees with a of infection. Markus Binder
products could play a role in list of contacts, was already believes the crisis manage-
fighting Covid-19,’ says Markus in place in late March of 2020. ment policies adopted by
Binder, General Manager of The hygiene concept drawn the family-run business will
the binder group. He firmly up by the company includes continue to bear fruit. ‘The
believes that one thing made the procurement of a large health of our employees is
this all possible: ‘The strong quantity of hygiene products, our top priority. Over the past
sense of team that sets us regularly updated notices and months, we did not panic and
apart as a family company a new policy to allow emplo- took considered action, which
makes it possible for us to yees to work from home with is something we will continue
take on this role.’ the aim of reducing the risk of to do.’
To a job well done
infection at the office. Along
Effective measures with this, binder was one of
the first companies to offer
With 1,000 employees at the free rapid antigen tests to its
Neckarsulm site, it should staff from November 2020. Up
come as no surprise that there to 117 such tests were carried
The first verified case of Covid-19 in Germany was reported on 27 January 2020. Less than two were a few isolated cases of out by trained professionals
months later, the first lockdown was imposed on 22 March. This article outlines the measures Covid-19 at binder. The checks at the Neckarsulm site daily. In
binder has taken to protect employees’ health and reveals the role the company’s products we carried out caught these addition, binder was early to
had in helping to treat Covid patients. quickly, however. ‘In some
case, we were able to start
Text Patrick Heckler contact tracing immediately
and ensure a fast flow of in- Hygiene products procured
formation to halt the spread September 2020 until April 2021
and guarantee safe working
Covid-19 has brought public fighting Covid-19. On the flip Strong sense of team as conditions for our employees 50.320 medical face masks
life to a halt for more than a side, we face the challenge of crucial ingredient at all times,’ reports Kristina 35.800 FFP2 masks
year now, and it’s changed the providing the best protection Bitz, HR Director (K-PW) and 15.000 Covid-19 self-tests
way we live and act. The pan- possible to our employees by Medical technology accounts official in charge in Covid-re- 6.300 medical gloves for Covid-19 tests
demic presents challenges adopting proper measures for roughly 15 per cent of the lated matters at binder. ‘It 4.100 tongue depressors for Covid-19 tests
for each of us – and for com- and making smart choices. binder group’s total revenue. is incumbent on each and 2.800 rapid antigen tests
panies like binder, too. As an The connectors it makes are every one of us to exercise 1.200 disposable gloves
essential manufacturer and deployed in respirators and responsibility to ensure the 700 lab coats for Covid-19 tests
supplier of connectors used infusion pumps, which are measures are effective. It’s 120 bottles of hand disinfectant
in the medical field, binder’s two key pieces of equipment a matter of solidarity and 90 bottles of surface disinfectant
products play a vital role in used in the medical field. respect for others.’
10 11
SALES SALES
M16 connectors M16 connectors were originally
designed to meet the requi-
rements of Deutsches Institut
angled connectors terminated
by soldering, with screws and
crimp. Pre-moulded cables
antenna line devices in the
wireless industry.
The perfect solution for für Normung (German Institute
for Standardisation) that de-
fined the standard for circular
are available and the options
are as equally comprehensi-
ve when it comes to the pa-
binder’s Series 423 and 723
M16 connectors, for examp-
le, are available in 8-pin DIN
applications that need connectors for analogue audio
signals. These were used widely
for many years and commonly
nel receptacles with front or
rear fastening as standard
for solder bucket versions and
variants, of which four to five
contacts are used. The pro-
ducts are AISG C485 compliant
high pin counts known throughout the audio
industry and to the consumer
as DIN connectors.
front-fastening for dip solder
and pre-terminated flexible
PCBs.
and available as male and
female shielded cable and
panel mount connectors. The
connectors, which can be used
High pin count and protection This connector style, along with for all wireless networks, meet
From its early beginnings in the audio industry more than 50 years ago – in fact the M16 up to IP68 the benefits of rugged design the requirements for protection
connector was the first connector system binder manufactured – today’s M16 connector with good environmental re- class IP68 when connected,
is very much a “go to” connector solution for a huge variety of indoor applications. Thanks “Although still available in its sistance, have seen the M16 offering maximum reliability
mainly to continuous development and refinement, the M16 connector is now the ideal choice original unshielded IP40 DIN for- become widely used in instru- even under extreme external
for specifiers looking for a cost effective, robust screw locking connector that can accommo- mats, the latest M16 connectors mentation, measurement and conditions.
date as many as 24 contacts – with or without EMI shielding. are far removed from the early sensors for indoor use where
audio versions,” says Sascha there is a need for a higher pin Data transmission up to
Text The Editorial team Döbel, binder’s Product Mana- count than is offered by M8 10Gbits/s
ger for M16 connector systems. and M12 sensor connectors.
“Driven by market demands Other applications include One of the latest additions to
for lower contact resistance, pneumatic controls, gas and binder’s M16 offering is an X –
higher pin count and improved pressure measurement, tor- coded connector capable of
levels of protection, today’s que sensors and motor speed handling the data speeds de-
M16 connectors are capable regulators. manded by today’s sensor-ba-
of accommodating between sed automated production
two and 24 contacts. They Suitable for 5G roll out facilities. Data transmission
are mainly housed in metal figures are up to an impressive
bodies, with or without shiel- The latest applications for M16 10Gbits/s.
ding from electromechanical connectors include the impen-
interference (EMI) and providing ding roll-out of 5G networks The combination of a high pin
international protection up to where binder’s AISG-compli- count with the compact size
IP67 or IP68 for certain versions,” ant connectors are designed of nominally 18.5mm diameter
adds Sascha Döbel. to provide high international and 60mm in length means
protection for selected out- M16 connectors offer an excel-
Versatility of application is door installations. The AISG lent alternative to more ex-
assured as a range of alter- (Antenna Interface Standards pensive connector systems.
natives are available for cable Group) defines standards for Special short versions and
mounting with straight or right- the control and monitoring of right-angled versions with
12 13
SALES
a height of only 37mm mean To sum up binder’s M16 pro-
M16 can be used in applications duct offering, Sascha Döbel
where space is very tight. comments “At binder we have
found that the flexibility pro-
M16 connectors accommo- vided by our comprehensive
date cables ranging from 4.0 range of M16 connectors with
to 10mm diameter, are rated the seemingly endless options
to 250V and can withstand an at relatively low cost compared
‘binder strives to
impulse voltage up to 1500V, to other connector systems,
with current handling of up to has led to its popularity con-
7A (at 40ºC). With increasing tinually increasing and its ap-
develop customer-
requirements from equipment plication range has extended
manufacturers for shielding remarkably from the humble
against EMI more applications 1960s microphone to the latest
specific solutions for
now require shielded cable communications and security
systems with the requirement systems that touch us all.”
for connectors with good shiel-
circular connectors
ding characteristics. For opti-
mum results 360º shielding is
required and this is achieved
in the automation,
by integral shielding rings,
providing a high attenuation
over a large frequency band.
industrial and
medical field.’
Mission statement
Unparalleled reliability –
even under extreme
outdoor conditions.
14
SALES SALES
binder creates flexible hybrid solution The versatility and flexibility can be processed in modern
of the new hybrid connectors reflow processes.
for complex applications makes them ideal for applica-
tions in industrial indoor and Practical application and
outdoor areas where both further development of the
power and signal transmission offer
New
is needed in the smallest of
spaces. In addition to sen- The connector has been spe-
sors, actuators and camera cifically designed for deman-
M12-A connector
systems, this also includes ding outdoor applications.
motors, drives and control When mated, the connectors
systems. protect to IP67 and the ope-
combines power and
rating temperature range
Current and signal properties is -25°C to 85°C. The screw
connection of the M12x1 stan-
signal contacts
The first available versions dard thread is made of stain-
feature nine contacts – two less steel although an optional
gold-plated current contacts plastic version is available.
rated to 12A at 63V and seven
gold-plated signal contacts binder is also announcing
rated 0.5A at 12.5V. The power a connector variant with six
binder announces the first models in a new range of overmoulded M12 A-coded connectors. conductors are inserted in a contacts among the other
Its hybrid design means the single-cable solution contains both power and signal contacts. cable connector moulded models that will soon follow.
with polyurethane (PUR) and This combines two current
Text The Editorial team feature a cross section of contacts – up to 16A – and
0.75mm2 (AWG 18). The signal four shielded signal contacts
transmission conductors are for data transmission. This
0.14mm2 (AWG 26). enables future DC applica-
tions with power requirements
As standard, the new connec- of up to a maximum of 1kW
tors are supplied with 2m and with simultaneous data
and 5m cables although connection up to 100Mbit/s.
custom cables lengths are
also available from binder on
request. For PCB applications, Designed for
the connection to the printed
circuit board is implemented demanding outdoor
using dip soldering technology
(THR) for the power contacts applications.
and SMD technology for the si-
gnal contacts. The connectors
16 17
SALES SALES
A new type of M8 circular connector The newest version of the M8 The rated voltage and rated “With the continuous further
cable connector is among the current differ depending on the development and expansion
expands the binder portfolio smaller sizes in the constantly number of pins. The 3-pin and of circular connectors, even for
expanding binder range and 4-pin versions offer 60V and the smaller sizes such as M5 or
increases binder’s presence 2A up to 4A, depending on the M8, we are very well positioned
into application areas whe- conductor cross-section. The in the areas of factory auto-
Reliable EMC with re size and performance will
constantly increase in the fu-
ture. In addition to the basic
6-pin and 8-pin designs can
handle up to 30V and 1.5A. The
cable is optionally available
mation and miniaturization,”
stated Guido Werner, Product
manager in the Sales depart-
360° shielding: properties of M8 connectors
such as compact size and
in PVC or PUR. In addition, the
cable length can be configured
ment at binder since 2013.
M8 cable connectors
low weight, the new 718 Series to customer requirements.
connector, which is available
now, differs mainly from other Important component of a
for sensitive
approaches in its application growing spectrum
areas by a new type of 360°
shielding. With the constantly growing
applications
portfolio of compact cable
Fields of application and connectors, binder can provide
product properties enhanced products primarily to
those application fields requi-
The shielding concept, used ring a great degree of flexibility
for the first time in this en- in a small space and whose
Industry knowledge and experience in industrial circular connectors are both recognized hall- vironment, ensures particularly importance in the future will
marks of binder. The company operates in many fields of application thanks to its compre- reliable EMC shielding without continue to increase greatly.
hensive range of products the latest of which is a molded M8 circular connector. Part of the interference. This property in Finally, binder is developing a
718 Series, the new connector provides high reliability under advanced requirements – even the M8 format makes the circu- 12-pin M8 connector that has
for customized specifications – with a new type of shielding concept. lar connector useful primarily already proven itself capable
in applications such as sensor in measuring equipment ap-
Text The Editorial team technology, laboratory equip- plications and in automation.
ment and drive solutions. As
with many connectors in the
binder portfolio, this product
can also be implemented as
a customized design. binder New umbrella
offers four versions of the new
cable connector with 3, 4, 6 or concept to set
8 pins. Degree of protection
IP67 is provided in all versions us apart.
of this model as is a mecha-
nical lifetime of more than 100
mating cycles.
18 19PRODUCTION AND LOGISTICS PRODUCTION AND LOGISTICS
manual production. This unit Relocation of production
has since been integrated into
operations in numbers
other segments.
85 manual assembly workstations
Fantastic teamwork
57 kanban racks/logistics rack systems with shuttle
24 fully-automated assembly units
Completing such a complex
16 standalone computer workstations
Moving into the new
undertaking requires a team
15 semi-automatic packaging machines
effort. An operation of this scale
15 semi-automatic assembly machines and lines
could not have been done
10 installation workstations
binder building
without the active assistance
2 fully-automated packaging machines
of multiple departments. The
2 inspection stations
unit in charge of removing
... and numerous other machines and systems
the equipment from service
was the Equipment depart-
ment, which also prepared for maintaining production, a in the background, where they
Staff began to move into the new production and logistics centre at the Neckarsulm site early and carried out the transport task it completed with flying had general responsibility for
this year. This massive undertaking has now been completed. With it, the company opens a of the machinery. It also instal- colours. master data maintenance and
new chapter in its history. led, calibrated and restarted the provision of materials.
the systems. Once this was Mission accomplished
Text Patrick Scheer completed, a test run was
carried out. Plant Maintenance Each individual department
provided critical support to has an authorised coordinator
the Equipment team during who served as the central point
transport. They disconnected of contact for external remo-
the machines from the media val companies and provided About the author
supply, power, compressed/ support to them as required.
exhaust air and the network The systems and processes
All the advanced preparations Timeline 11 February, during which time and reconnected them at the underwent checks before the
paid off. Months were spent the Miniature Connectors and new site. All network connec- machines were approved to
planning for the transfer of Transferring production to Strand Production segments tions were set up according the resume large-scale produc-
production to the new faci- the new building took a total were relocated to the new buil- specifications given by the IT tion. The Production and Qua-
lity. Production of miniature of three-and-a-half months ding. The Automation segment department, which was also lity Assurance teams worked
connectors was the first to be and entailed no disruption was moved during phase two, placed in charge of allocati- closely together to agree on
moved, with others to follow in to operations. The move was which was completed between on and patching of Ethernet test materials, quantities and Patrick Scheer has been
stages. After nearly two years carried out in three phases 19 February and 17 March. This outlets. The Production depart- deadlines. The project was a working at binder since
of construction, all production to ensure binder would be was followed by the Power ment had a major role in the success in no small part thanks August 2014 and is a Pro-
operations from Plant 2 could able to meet its production segment (29 March to 15 April), relocation of production ope- to the efforts of the Operations ject Manager in the Value
now be transferred to the new and delivery obligations to which preceded the relocati- rations. It acted as an interface Scheduling, Production Control, Stream Design Projects
building. customers. Phase one took on of production operations to other departments while Process Organisation and Logi- department (P-IE-WSP).
place between 11 January and on 21 April with the closing of also being given responsibility stics departments. They worked
20 21PRODUCTION AND LOGISTICS PRODUCTION AND LOGISTICS
Improvements in singly stringent requirements,
especially in terms of flame
existing one, which, due to its
specific geometric properties,
detail and identify solutions to
the particular issue.
plastics production
retardancy, more targeted was ideally suited to serve as
venting must be carried out the test object, was chosen
on injection moulds. Special for the pilot project. The tests
coatings are applied to tool on the production model were
steels that improve the wear fully documented in matching
properties and demoulding forms. While this was going
The market for connectors continues to grow all the time, placing increasing demands on process. A vacuum is applied on, Tool Design, Tool Making
companies and the products they make. As an innovative company, binder has optimised the during venting to improve part and Process Technology, the
processes it uses to produce injection moulds that will allow it to play a central role in shaping filling and enable reliable pro- departments taking part in the
the market. duction at sufficiently large project, coordinated activities.
batch sizes.
Text Claus Burmeister Thanks to the project, the ven-
Connectors are becoming ting process required during
increasingly delicate and com- injection moulding could be
plex, especially in the area optimised. The findings and
where they are plugged in or methods used to resolve the
connected. Achieving reliable issue delivered with the test
production results along with mould are now applied to all
satisfactory component quality compatible tools. As a result
is only possible if the compo- of the project, binder was able
nents are tested in terms of to streamline its production
mould filling and optimised process and reduce accom-
during this phase. The simu- panying costs.
lation cannot always be fully
visualised especially in the Providing support to young
border zones, however. professionals About the author
Solution binder’s philosophy of fostering
the talents of ambitious junior
To overcome the challenges employees has paid off once
outlined above, the most sui- more. While training to qualify
The injection moulding trial tool optimises plastics production table solution was to design a as a technician, Stefan Schwei-
test mould, which was used to zer was given a key research
carry out a full battery of tests, and organisational role in a
Connectors make it possible standards increase, the mar- production. make tweaks and check how project to create a test mould Claus Burmeister has
to create modular assemblies, ket today demands plastics effective the changes were. for connectors at his partner been with binder since
devices, systems and machi- that can adapt to meet the Problem This process would not have company binder. A team of July 2008 and works as a
nes. Product design is highly changing standards. During been possible using a mass technicians there was able to Team Lead in the Tool De-
reliant on the development machining, there are nume- Additives alter the properties production mould. Rather than document the complex pro- sign department (P-WK).
of these systems. As product rous factors that complicate of plastics. To meet the increa- using a mock-up product, an cess, record the results in great
22 23TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY
The problems of using G2 model – in 2020. Welding
external contractors work can now be done in less
than an hour. The state-of-the-
Absolute precision Without laser welding techno-
logy, using the highly specia-
art laser welding technology
is now available whenever it’s
laser welding
lised tools that the company needed, meaning maintenan-
manufactures for decades ce routines can be planned
wouldn’t be a realistic option. over a much longer period of
at binder
That’s why binder has relied on time. The fact that the laser
this method for such a long welding unit is operated by
time. However, carrying out the two highly qualified, internal
welding work internally wasn’t employees means that even
an option until 2020, which is complicated welds are now
why it was done by an external possible, with a drastically re-
Whenever laser beams are mentioned, cinema enthusiasts inevitably think of Jedi Knights. service provider. While this duced error rate. Even though
Laser technology has been a part binder’s everyday work in tool making since 2013, with laser solution was a cost effective the cost of purchasing a high-
welding also becoming a regular occurrence since 2020. Of course, this has nothing to do with one, it also came with several tech device such as a laser
science fiction and mystery. But the use of the technology is always exciting. drawbacks. The delivery time welding unit is high, the ad-
was often two days – valuable vantages clearly outweigh the
Text The Editorial team time in which the tools were disadvantages. As a result, bin-
missing in production. There der’s Tool Making department
were also transport costs to is significantly more flexible,
pay in addition to the main- and the added value remains
tenance costs. But that’s not within the company.
The Tool Making department The tools, which come in many be welded within fractions of all: the external maintenance
(P-WB) at binder has 32 per- varieties, constantly need to be a second, instantly creating a staff’s lack of familiarity and
manent employees and eight cleaned, maintained, rebuilt weld. The process is ideal for training in handling the highly
apprentices. It manufactures and repaired. repairing and maintaining tools customised tools meant an
precision tools for plastics pro- in particular. The object to be extensive amount of com-
duction in-house, under the How the procedure works welded is positioned on a ball munication was needed. This
leadership of Steffen Schmidt. magnet table and precisely arduous back and forth didn’t
Anyone familiar with how rich When a material is applied to aligned. Using Leica binoculars prevent time-consuming and
and varied binder’s connec- a surface by laser welding, it is with 16x magnification makes expensive reworking from being
tor range is can get a rough referred to as build-up welding it possible to capture minute required again and again.
idea of how multi-faceted the as the volume increases to a edges and recreate the ori-
process for designing the tools minimal extent. In laser wel- ginal edge progression. Laser Acquire a laser welding unit,
to manufacture the products ding, light is focused on a tiny welding equipment allows the solve the problem
is. But the highly specialised spot using a lens. The welding tools to be restored to their
injection moulds often remain wires used have a diameter full functionality and quality These problems were consi-
in service for decades, which of just 0.2 to 0.6 millimetres. while only needing a minimal gned to history after binder
means the job is by no means The extremely high energy amount of material. acquired its own laser welding The ALPHA LASER ALV 150 G2
done once they have been built. density melts the material to unit – the ALPHA LASER ALV 150 laser welding unit
24 25l ement style e
ORGANISATION ORGANISATION
‘You just have that we were allowed to learn
with him. Being able to do
wed ambition right from the
start of his time in Production
specialist is another serious
step forward. In a company like
to want it’
the internship in Vienna was Control, where he has been binder, every path is open to
another highlight – that was working since October 2017. you – you just have to want it.’
great!’ Fabian’s eyes light up ‘binder places a great deal
when he talks about the ten of emphasis on the topic of The JAV is very happy for Fa-
days he spent at binder Austria corporate digitalisation. You bian; he has really achieved
together with other apprenti- can really see how this makes a lot in the last ten years. We
Fabian Götz is just 27 years old, yet he can already look back on a whole decade of service at ces during his apprenticeship. the company structure even wish him continued success
binder. Time has passed in the blink of an eye – ten years in which he has steadily developed ‘It was a great experience. faster and more effective. I and are curious to see how
on both a personal and a professional level, becoming a conscientious adult. Although we were still quite trained as an SAP key user his story continues.
inexperienced, we were allo- for production and logistics
Text JAV wed to really lend a hand at so that I could also contri-
binder Austria and support bute to this development.
the employees in their day- The qualification I’m currently
to-day work.’ doing to become a technical
Anyone who comes across A great apprenticeship A golden future
the Deputy Head of Producti-
on Control at his workstation ‘To me, it felt like I was jumping The self-confidence that the
always finds him in a good in at the deep end. Today, the teenagers built up during Commitment
mood and walks away with new apprentices are carefully the internship also had an
the impression of a thoroug- integrated into company life. effect on the later years of and a sense of
hly relaxed man. This isn’t a We didn’t have any on-boar- their apprenticeship. ‘At bin-
given for a young man who is ding programmes or careful der, you notice quite quickly responsibility are
about to become a father for support to help us acclimatise that if you want to achieve
the first time and who is also from student life into the world something and make an ef- decisive factors.
completing further training to of work in our day. We arrived fort, then every door is open
become a technical specialist here and started working stra- to you. Realising that fact
on top of his responsibilities ight away.’ Even though Fabian guaranteed that I applied
at work. ‘I always say: where Götz is happy to see how the for other internal positions
there’s a will, there’s a way. apprenticeship at binder is just a year after the appren-
You can always get everything evolving and thinks it is a po- ticeship was over. That was
done; you just have to want sitive thing, he doesn’t think in February 2016.’ Fabian Götz About the authors
it.’ Fabian, whose surname he missed out on anything demonstrated commitment
back then was Senf, proved ten years ago – quite the and a sense of responsibili- The JAV (Youth and Apprentice Council) at binder includes
his will for the first time in 2011. opposite in fact. ‘Eberhard ty as an internal fitter in the Rudolf Shmidt (Chairperson), Andrea Messer (Deputy
As a recent school graduate, Schmid was our instructor, a automation segment of Plant Chairperson), Vincent Kühnle (Secretary) and Lucca
he seized his opportunity and very inspiring person who was 2, where he rectified faults on Stoppani (Backup Member). These four dedicated young
began an apprenticeship as committed to looking after us production machines and took professionals were elected to the board for two years on
Fabian Götz has been at binder since a tool mechanic at binder. and taught us a lot. We are all responsibility for organising 22 October 2020.
he was an apprentice happy and also a little proud shift schedules. He also sho-
28 29MARKETING MARKETING
Social media: 1. General social networks
such as Facebook, Twitter,
your own content and rating
that of other users.
On both the general and pro-
fessional social networks, we
far more than just
Instagram provide insights into the com-
binder has recognised the pany’s everyday life, informa-
Their broad user spectrum and signs of the times tion about products, reports
a trend
high membership numbers on current events and keep
make these networks particu- Whether B2B or B2C – in the our followers up to date. In the
larly well suited to contacting age of digitalisation, there is future, it will also be impos-
(potential) customers and no way around social networks. sible to imagine a marketing
applicants, and to raising a binder has also long been strategy without social media,
company’s brand awareness. aware of the potential offered especially in terms of interna-
Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and countless more – most people can no longer contemplate a by the Internet and has been tional reach. It’s worth giving
life without social media. Facebook platforms alone are used by around 2.5 billion users every 2. Professional social leveraging it for several years. it a ‘like’.
day. Whether it’s by posting a photo, uploading video or leaving a comment, they all exchan- networks such as Xing or An ever-increasing number of
ge views on current topics, gather knowledge and share personal opinions and experiences. LinkedIn different platforms have been
launched in recent years and
Text Anita Hartwig and Evelin Minz In general social networks, the company’s presence on so-
people communicate about cial media is being expanded
everything and everyone; constantly. In December 2020,
This is where it all comes to- the encyclopaedia any more professional social networks, for example, binder also joined
gether – private meets profes- when they’re looking for the however, are primarily used Instagram, which is now the
sional, exciting meets arbitrary latest news and useful infor- for professional purposes. most powerful social network.
and everyone meets everyone. mation. Research has shown Both Xing and LinkedIn offer
While many users enjoy social that platforms like YouTube, companies the opportunity to Given the current situation, we
media as something in their Instagram, Facebook and Lin- present themselves in a pro- have to do without face-to-fa-
About the authors
private lives, companies often kedIn are now treated as search fessional environment, attract ce meetings, visits to trade fairs
pursue traditional commu- engines just like Google. Only new employees, post job ad- and company events. Trade
nication goals. No wonder, what appears at the top of vertisements and participate fairs are our most important
seeing as there is hardly a the results is considered re- in professional discussions. way of communicating directly
better place to raise your own levant. Nowadays, companies with customers. The needs
profile, attract new employees cannot afford to miss out on 3. Social media platforms of our target group have ch-
and customers and network strengthening their own brand such as YouTube and anged, especially during the
with them. awareness on social media. Pinterest pandemic, and have shifted Anita Hartwig (Category
further into the digital realm. Leader Employer Bran-
Why is social media so Making sense of the Compared to the networks in The coronavirus pandemic has ding, with binder since
important today? social media jungle the other two categories, so- led to a real boom in social 2016) and Evelin Minz
cial media platforms are less networks. This makes it all the (Marketing Communicati-
Even if some of us still don’t Social media can generally be preoccupied with networking more important to use digital on Apprentice, with binder
want to admit it, we are in the divided into three categories: or communicating, even if channels to offer an alternative since 2019) both work in
middle of the new world of this is also possible in princi- and added value. marketing, where they are
the digital age. Hardly anyone ple. YouTube and Pinterest are responsible for binder’s
reaches for the newspaper or about creating and sharing social media channels,
among other things.
30 31GLOBAL
Pure identification
In 2008, binder USA moved into a new building with its own manufacturing facility. Eric Shiver,
Production Manager of binder USA, has been part of the binder family for the past 13 years. He
set the foundation for binder USA’s growth over the following years by setting up the manu-
facturing facility. Eric Shiver is looking back on a fantastic journey with binder which is far from
over yet. In the following interview, he talks about the steady growth despite the pandemic,
manufacturing challenges and overall goals for the US subsidiary.
Interview The Editorial team
A section of the production hall of binder USA
Mr Shiver, you have been with What is motivating you to
binder USA since 2008. What come to work every day?
do you enjoy about your job tools to arrive from Germany. despite the pandemic in 2020 million just in cables without
as a production manager and I still wake up in the middle of By August of 2010, we realised was the strategy of cutting distribution sales. Another sign
what makes it so special to the night thinking about im- that we needed a second shift costs where we could and of the manufacturing growth
work for the company? provements and challenges. I to keep up with the demand. keeping important inventory is the increasing number of
enjoy the manufacturing game, This was a highlight since it levels up. When the economy employees. In 2021, we have
binder USA has been at diffe- hustle and daily challenges of made me realise how much started to reopen, we were in already added eight new bin-
rent stages of growth. Being hitting manufacturing num- the company has grown. We a strong position and it paid der employees to the team.
part of the growth and contri- bers and increasing efficien- started with two machines off. This has been a cons- Currently, there are 96 em-
buting to the overall develop- cy. Seeing my manufacturing initially and now we already tant effort by management ployees working in three shifts
ment of the firm has made it decisions come to fruition is are at six, with possibly two and production. The people including 46 binder workers
very special to work for the very motivating. more coming in 2021. make the key difference sin- and 50 guest workers.
company. When I first came ce we have a very dynamic
to binder USA, we started with What was your personal high- Looking back on 2020, it has management and a great An increase in demand
an empty facility. From my light throughout your journey? been a difficult year for many manufacturing team. means a higher manufac-
processing engineering pro- businesses. How was binder turing volume is required.
duction background, it was like Every progressive milestone USA impacted by the global How has the growth from 2020 Are there any challenges
a dream come true to have along the way has been a coronavirus crisis? going into 2021 been for the coming with an increasing
the operational freedom and personal highlight. Jon Ma- manufacturing of binder USA? demand?
financial resources of setting gelssen, Production Supervisor We exceeded our eight per cent
up the production process in of binder USA, and I set up the growth forecast for 2020 and There was a steadily growing Running three shifts requires
an empty building. The support manufacturing facility with did almost $1 million more in demand from 2020 going into great communication. The
and the resources I got from only two moulding machines sales than expected. A main 2021. Currently, through Ap- production employees play a
Germany were amazing. while we were still waiting for reason of binder USA’s success ril we have a backlog of $1.5 key role and they are very
Eric Shiver, Production Manager at binder USA
32 33GLOBAL
dedicated to hit the produc- number in January. The new
tion numbers while keeping goal is to hit 18,000 cables a
the quality high. Personally, I week. Here, it is important to hit
think it is very important to these numbers without using
clearly communicate problems overtime. Our long-term goal is
and keep everyone involved. to increase the overall produc-
Another important factor is to tion by 30 per cent throughout
structure the workflow and the year. The implementation
make sure that all production of the new test-and packaging
‘A good logo is
areas for the next process station should help to increase
operations are working to ca- our production capabilities.
pacity to keep efficiency high. Generally, we plan to expand
memorable and
on the distribution cables and
Are there any new manu- distribution sales. This is where
facturing projects planned our growth in sales will come
distinctive; it evokes
for 2021? from in the long term.
Currently, we are in the process
an attitude to life and
of rearranging the production
floor. We recognised our bot-
tlenecks were the test-and
everyone recognises it.’
packaging station. This is why
we are putting another test-
and packaging station on the
line as well as adding another
crimping machine. Conse-
quently, we have to rearrange
the production floor to get a
better workflow. For 2021, our BrandBook
goal is to increase overall pro-
duction by 30 per cent.
What are the production goals
of binder USA and can you
give us an outlook for the
rest of the year regarding ‘For 2021, our goal
manufacturing?
is to increase
The short-term goal was to
increase production to 15,000 overall production
cables a week by the end of
February. We already beat that by 30 per cent.’
34 35GLOBAL GLOBAL
To mark our ten-year anni- at binder UK, during which we Norway has a military elec-
versary, we wanted to take received some excellent advice tronics and medical industry
this opportunity to give you from David Philips, nothing as well as with lots of offshore
a glimpse into the world of could go wrong. platforms for the oil industry
binder Sweden – from how we and activities in the fishing
were founded, to who we are, The growth industry. Most electronics for
through to the challenges we non-military industries are
face today. Björn Jansson was the first produced in the Baltic states
salesman to join the compa- nowadays. We have two dis-
The past ny, who has since left. Shortly tributors in Norway – T&G and
after, Anna Sedström started Etm4U. Norway has the most
Former binder salesman Bertil working at binder as “the brain electric cars per capita and
Elgestadt, who worked at EG of binder Sweden” (as Goran so over half of all cars sold there
Electronics, was the gentleman wonderfully put it), taking care are electric. Even though Swe-
who first introduced binder of all of the administrative work den is an expensive country,
connectors to the Swedish so her brother Peter, and Björn prices in Norway are even more
market. When his contract could concentrate on sales. expensive, so Norwegians like
with EG Electronics came to The next step on the path to to visit Sweden to go shopping.
an end, binder Neckarsulm growth was to hire a warehouse
was concerned about how EG worker – Juan Törnbrand – and Finland is the land of a thous-
Electronics would continue its when Björn left the company, and lakes and the home of
work and remain committed we hired Lars Andersson to join Nokia and the Moomins. The
to binder. So, he decided to the sales team, and he is still country has also handled the
establish binder in Sweden. A with us today. From one em- Covid-19 pandemic with gre-
From left to right: Anna Sedström, Peter Sedström, Lars Andersson, Juan Törnbrand
huge thanks has to go to Goran ployee to four, from €1.3 million at success, boasting some of
Uremovic for encouraging Pe- to €3 million, from a handful the lowest figures in the EU. In
ter Sedström to climb aboard of projects to countless ones. Finland, we have ETRA Electro-
the binder Sweden train and From one customer to 200 nics as partner. Industry wise,
binder Sweden’s
set off for the future. “Has it customers. binder Sweden’s electronics and forest machi-
been ten years already?” he growth is sustainable, and we nery are strong in Finland.
asks. “It feels like it started are lucky to have started out in Chemical plants and ship-
grand jubilar
yesterday!” For the first few a big office space so that we
months, it was just us and the still have some room to spare
computer, but before long we for future expansions.
had rented a spacious office
with a warehouse and the first The present
shipment of binder products
This year marks a decade on the Swedish market and it is fantastic that we can celebrate that landed from Neckarsulm – and Countries in the Nordic region
achievement. It goes without saying that we are incredibly proud of how far we have come, how the with the first order, from the – which consists of Norway,
journey has unfolded and we are now looking forward to the next ten years with great excitement. former distributor, binder Swe- Sweden, Finland, Denmark and
den was officially started. After Iceland – are very different in
Text The binder Sweden team a two day ‘company’ course terms of business and climate.
36 37GLOBAL GLOBAL
builders are also prospering as a sustainable production in-design process. He also loves A grateful thought to all
in a young country, which is battery plant in the northern nothing more than seeing the
only 100 years old. part of Sweden – Swedish bu- direct result of actions and We would like to say a massive
siness culture is largely based making progress towards the thank you to each and every
Denmark consists of several on consensus meaning it can end product. single one of our colleagues,
islands. Most of the industry take time until everything has wherever you are in the world,
is based in the western part been agreed. Juan Törnbrand: Juan has for being involved in supporting
in Jutland. Copenhagen, the recently become a father and binder Sweden in one way or
capital of Denmark is on the The binder Sweden team we will miss him when he goes another and we would like to
eastern island called Zealand. on his parental leave later this extend an extra special thanks
The industry focuses mostly on Peter Sedström: Peter is a year. Juan has been with binder to Sabine Schwandtner, Sylvie
renewable energy with com- technical salesman who loves Sweden for about eight years. Hägele, Christina Taube and
Tack så
panies like Vestas and there is nothing more than signing Goran Uremovic, who have
a large food industry. We have a new business contract, no Mastering challenges helped us out many times
two distributors in Denmark – matter the size. The diversity together over the years – once more,
mycket för
Mikkelsen and ACTE. and scale of our day-to-day thank you all!
work that comes from all of the A recent challenge for binder
Sweden is the largest country different tasks we have to deal Sweden was the implementa-
ordet!
in the Nordic region and has with is something he appreci- tion of SAP Business ByDesign
the highest population. Swe- ates greatly – not to mention last year. The ERP we had been
den has been an engineering/ the pleasure of being the MD of using before was a simpler
in-design country with pro- the best binder Sweden team! program, so that meant we
duction elsewhere for a couple
of decades. However, we are
active in the electronics and
Anna Sedström: Seeing as
Anna has a master’s degree
needed a lot of extra training.
But thanks to the wonderful
support from Jürgen Lauth
Thank you for
heavy industries thanks to the
mining and steel production
operations in the northern
in chemical engineering, it
was a strange step for her to
start working with purchasing,
and Maru Neubig, we have
cleared all hurdles and are now
comfortable with the system.
speaking with us!
part of Sweden. For instance, logistics and administration.
our biggest customers are But it’s one that she’s glad If a customer has an urgent
Atlas Copco, which provides she took, and later this year request and we do not have
electronic assembly tools for Anna will be celebrating her what they need in stock, we
the global automotive industry, ten-year anniversary of working always check with Neckarsulm,
and Epiroc, which manufactu- at binder Sweden. but if the delivery time is a bit
res underground mining ma- too long and we do not want
chines. Engineering skills that Lars Andersson: Lars started to lose the sale, we know that
are second to none and cut- at binder Sweden in May 2015 we always have our affiliates
ting-edge technologies such and has a strong focus on to turn to. We have helped
as starting up the world’s first technical sales. He is delighted each other out of several tight
fossil-free steelmaking plant to be part of the binder Swe- spots over the years, and that
HYBRIT (Hydrogen Breakthrough den team and working closely is always appreciated, so thank
Ironmaking Technology), as well with the customer during the you colleagues!
38 39GLOBAL
Higher, faster, further: the tur-
nover rate in the MPE-Garry
warehouse has increased
rapidly in recent years. So it
is high time that capacity is
also significantly increased.
To achieve this ambitious
goal, a combined solution
was chosen, the components
of which had already been
tried and tested. A total of
three new lean lifts and one
storage lift were purchased;
all of these systems had al-
ready been used previously The newly acquired lean lifts at MPE-Garry
to store stamping tools and
stamped parts. ving systems. This runs over MPE-Garry now works even
guide rails cast firmly into the more ergonomically and effi-
Precise planning foundation and offers storage ciently thanks to an increase
space for an additional 320 in storage space of around
The particular challenge was pallets. With the help of a new, 40 per cent.
that the lean lifts were deli- semi-automatic film stretch
vered before the strip foun- machine, the pallets are now
dations needed to install also protected from dirt and
them were in place. Precise moisture.
Warehouse
planning ensured that ever-
ything went smoothly – even Perfect result
though incoming goods and
optimisation
dispatch continued to run in Increasing storage capacity About the authors
parallel. MPE-Garry’s many wasn’t the only goal. New
years of project management LED lighting systems were Alfred Hipp is a Commer-
at MPE-Garry
and construction experience, also purchased to optimise cial Manager (K-L) and
which customers have al- the process as a whole. Now, authorised signatory at
ways appreciated about the two employees can pick and MPE-Garry. He has been
company, also pays off when pack goods at the same time with the company since
it comes to internal projects. in perfect lighting conditions. 1985. Claudia Paulsteiner,
The result was that every chal- who joined MPE-Garry in
‘Constantly evolving to meet the demands of the market and customers’ – this is MPE-Garry’s Yet the question remained: lenge, including relocating the January 2020, is Head of
motto. The expansion of warehouse capacities for connectors, heat sinks and cable assem- where to put the extra pallets? strip lighting, supply lines and the Production Logistics
blies represents an important step forward for the future of the company. A specialist for stow storage fire alarms, was overcome Warehouse (PL-L) depart-
systems had the right solution within a short period of time. ment.
Text Claudia Paulsteiner and Alfred Hipp for this with its mobile shel- The result is impressive, as
40 41You can also read
