This year, WF Maschinenbau & Blechformtechnik GmbH & Co. KG celebrates its 50th anniversary. Since its founding in 1974, the company has grown from a regional machinery manufacturer to a global leader in metal forming technologies. Under the anniversary motto “From Sendenhorst to the world: 50 years of success,” WF Maschinenbau reflects on an impressive history of achievement and offers a glimpse into the future. The anniversary In 1975, Werner Winkelmann and Udo Friese founded WF Maschinenbau und Blechformtechnik GmbH & Co. KG, laying the foundation for a success story like no other. In its early years, the company developed innovative machines (e.g., flow-forming machines for producing internally toothed clutch and transmission parts) and processes (e.g., hub forming), filed numerous patents, and steadily expanded. The collective expertise and innovative spirit of the entire team led the management to establish its own R&D center, which today features four highly flexible testing machines, heat furnaces, induction systems, and its own measurement room. This R&D center is unique in the industry and enables the continuous development of new processes and machines in collaboration with customers, research institutions and universities. From Sendenhorst to the World Today, WF Maschinenbau is one of the few companies worldwide with the expertise and capacity to build metal forming machines of the highest complexity and precision. With subsidiaries in North America and China and representatives worldwide, the company serves a global customer base, offering solutions that guarantee the highest quality and efficiency. WF Maschinenbau’s high export rate underscores its international focus and global competitiveness. Milestones in Company History WF Maschinenbau’s key achievements include:

• Patented hub spinning process for pulleys: This process allows highly precise and efficient production, highlighting the company’s innovative strength.
• Establishment of its own Research & Development Center (R&D Center): In close collaboration with international partners, this center develops new technologies that efficiently utilize resources and minimize material waste.
• Development of the world’s strongest spinning machine: This technological achievement further solidifies WF Maschinenbau’s position as an industry leader.

Over decades, WF Maschinenbau has built close partnerships with leading customers in the automotive, aerospace, and energy industries. Collaborative projects with research institutions drive the continuous advancement of various metal forming technologies. Challenges WF Maschinenbau has successfully navigated global challenges in recent years, from supply chain disruptions to digitization, with innovation and flexibility. The company has proven its ability to not only maintain its position as an industry leader during difficult times but also to further enhance its innovative capabilities. Half a Century of Success WF Maschinenbau celebrates not only an anniversary, but a success story characterized by innovation, precision, and international collaboration. With a clear focus on sustainability and technological progress, the company looks optimistically to the coming decades. Managing Director Christian Malkemper emphasized, “This anniversary is a special moment to pause and thank our customers, partners, and especially our employees. Their trust and commitment have made WF Maschinenbau what it is today: a globally operating company with a passion for innovation. Together, we look to the future with confidence and will continue to prioritize progress and sustainability.”