Matthias Jud heads up the engineering division at Schoeller-Bleckmann Precision Technology. The company is – still – considered a hidden champion in the world of drill string component manufacturing. But exciting new prospects are also opening up in other areas.
Mr. Jud, Schoeller-Bleckmann has recently given itself a new brand image – why?
Because we want to position ourselves more diversely on the market. In future, our production technologies will not only be used in the traditional oil and gas sector, but also specifically in other industries – particularly in the general energy sector, aviation and beyond. The new brand identity signals precisely this strategic opening.
“Our strength is precision.
"Matthias Jud, Head of Engineering at SBO
What do you actually produce?
We are active in the high-precision manufacturing sector and primarily produce rotationally symmetrical components up to ten meters in length – including for all forms of energy generation. We are specialists in deep-hole drilling, gunhole drilling and 5-axis milling. Our components are used in the exploration of new oil and gas fields as well as geothermal fields. With more than 20 companies and 1,600 employees, the SBO Group has a broad international presence – especially where oil and gas are at home. For more than 100 years, we have mastered the machining of special alloys of various metals – from small workpieces to large components. Our strength lies in finding solutions where others have long since turned their backs.
How can you imagine this in concrete terms?
If an interested party comes to us with an idea, we accompany the entire development process – from the first sketch to the production-ready prototype. Our credo: “From theory to practice.” Thanks to flat hierarchies and short decision-making paths, we can act extremely effectively. We see ourselves as real doers – not theorists.
What are your technical strengths and skills?
In the Precision Technology division, we manufacture customized components with maximum precision, from complex steel parts to additive manufacturing solutions for industries in which precision and high performance are crucial.
What are these areas, for example?
As mentioned at the beginning, this includes the energy industry, but also aerospace, the semiconductor industry and others. SBO has specialized in the production of high-quality steels for more than a century, with a particular focus on high-strength, non-magnetic alloys over the past 70 years. Our high-alloy, non-magnetizable steels are characterized by high strength and corrosion resistance.
Is 3D printing already playing a role in this?
Yes, definitely – our portfolio of high-end 3D metal printers has been growing for years. We use them to produce the most complex parts with optimum results for the industries mentioned above. In close cooperation with our suppliers, we are continuing to expand our range of machines and powder types. A good example of this is Inconel 718, a nickel-based alloy that is very resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures of up to 1,300 degrees. We use it for jet engine components, racing valves and generally in all areas where high strength and low material fatigue are important.
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