ANDRITZ Schuler Pressen GmbH and WF Maschinenbau und Blechformtechnik GmbH & Co KG have entered into a strategic cooperation agreement to develop and manufacture high-strength, closed-base precision tubes through an integrated production process combining forging and advanced forming technologies. The collaboration brings together two complementary manufacturing systems to create a continuous process chain for the production of complex hollow-body components. The approach integrates hydraulic forging press technology from ANDRITZ Schuler with flow forming and necking-in systems developed by WF Maschinenbau, enabling the production of high-performance tubular structures with enhanced mechanical properties.
The production process begins with forged preforms created using ANDRITZ Schuler hydraulic press systems. These preforms are then transferred to WF Maschinenbau equipment, where they undergo further shaping through flow forming and hot spinning processes. The combined method enables the production of thin-walled tubes with high structural integrity and resistance to internal pressure, suitable for demanding industrial applications.
The integrated system is designed to improve both material efficiency and process stability. By aligning each stage of production from initial forming to final component, the system reduces raw material consumption by up to 15 percent compared with conventional manufacturing methods. This reduction also contributes to lower procurement costs and improved production efficiency.
In addition, the use of flow forming technology ensures precise internal geometry control, which is critical for applications requiring high dimensional accuracy and mechanical reliability. The combined process also reduces machining requirements by producing near-net-shape components, further improving manufacturing efficiency.
The cooperation is focused on scalable industrial production, supporting high cycle-rate manufacturing environments. The system is particularly relevant for sectors that require precision-engineered hollow components, including defence, heavy engineering and industrial manufacturing applications.
Both companies aim to provide a fully coordinated solution that improves performance, reduces material waste and enhances production consistency across large-scale manufacturing operations. The partnership reflects a growing trend toward integrated process engineering in advanced metal forming technologies.
ANDRITZ Schuler and WF Maschinenbau will present their joint manufacturing system at the Eurosatorydefence and security exhibition in Paris, scheduled from June 15 to 19, 2026. Technical teams from both organisations will showcase the integrated process chain and provide detailed insights into its industrial applications and performance benefits.
ANDRITZ Schuler is a global supplier of press systems and metal forming technologies, while WF Maschinenbau specialises in flow forming, spinning and advanced tube forming solutions. Together, the companies aim to advance next-generation precision tube manufacturing through process integration and engineering innovation.
