Annual Report 2020
Germany remains the largest market
The already shrinking order intake and revenues of the machine tool industry developed negatively in the financial year. According to the German Machine Builder’s Association (VDW), international orders in particular fell sharply compared with the previous year.
Liebherr saw a decline in sales of gear cutting machines and tools, which is in line with the situation across the sector as a whole. Sales remained stable in the automation systems area, with non-EU countries seeing growth, primarily driven by Switzerland and Turkey. Growth declined in the European Union. Revenues fell slightly in North America due to a weaker US market, with similar developments in Central and South America. Asia and Oceania remained just below the previous year's level.
Development projects automation focus on e-mobility. The aim is to develop process solutions for battery pack assembly and, above all, to serve technological requirements.
Focus on electro mobility
Liebherr was able to present a number of new products in the Gear Technology and Automation Systems product segment in the 2020 business year. During a virtual trade show, the gear technology product area showcased the high-precision LGG 500 gear-grinding machine that was developed for high precision and top performance in heavy- duty applications. Another novelty was the new standardised SECLA clamping system, Liebherr's own solution for quality combined with short delivery times. In the automation product area, the spotlight was on the PHS all-round pallet handling system, designed for automated solutions from lot size one. Another highlight was the modular product kit for battery pack assembly, which is especially suited for high weight battery packs. This process solution includes linear and area gantries, storage solutions, (automated) transportation and conveyor systems as well as industrial robotics.
Research activities were carried out to develop uniform data interfaces for production facilities among other things. Projects under development included the new LHStation control station and the LHMobile handheld terminal, which facilitates mobile programming and operation. Other development activities focused on automated e-mobility solutions. Investments were made in the maintenance of production sites and in a skiving machine for shaper cutters and hob cutters.
Liebherr expects order volumes to pick up in 2021 in the Gear Technology and Automation Systems product segment. Sales are predicted to be on a par with the previous year.