On 1st March 2018, Höganäs AB took over part of international metal powder producer H.C. Starck, namely the division for surface coating: Surface Technology & Ceramic Powders (STC). This is Höganäs’ largest acquisition so far and one of three in a short period.
The acquisition of STC is the third in a row for Höganäs during a short time period. In November last year Höganäs acquired Metasphere Technology, a Swedish start-up that has developed a new atomizing technology using plasma for high performing materials for surface coating and additive manufacturing. In February this year Höganäs acquired Alvier PM-Technology, a Swiss world leading company specializing in designing and manufacturing of tools for pressing of metal powder components, an acquisition aimed at strengthening the global PM industry's development and growth.
“With STC Höganäs gets access to new markets and product groups within the premium segment for surface coating and additive manufacturing. The acquisition means that we start the building of a second strong leg in Höganäs’ business, next to metal powder for pressed and sintered components,” says Fredrik Emilson.
STC employs close to 400 people, mainly in Germany where the company has two production units, which complement Höganäs’ powder production. STC’s customer base is mainly European, which also complements Höganäs’ stronger position in Americas and APAC.
The acquisition contract was signed before Christmas 2017 and at the end of February relevant competition authorities approved the deal.
STC is a leading global manufacturer of surface technology, ceramic and additive manufacturing powders for a wide variety of end-market applications. STC produces a broad range of highly customized metallic and ceramic powders, which target niche applications in a diversified set of end-markets including industrial gas turbines, aviation, oil & gas, welding, medical, various industrial applications, thermal management & clean energy and additive manufacturing. STC operates two production facilities in Germany and has a workforce of approximately 360 employees.
