Competence Center for Transmission Technology

2018-01-25

The Power Transmission Control (PTC) business unit of Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ltd opened its global research and development center on January 4, 2018 at the headquarters of Hansen Industrial Transmissions NV in Edegem, Belgium. Vice President Shaun Dean, General Manager Global HQ, Power Transmissions & Controls Group and also CEO of Sumitomo (SHI) Cyclo Drive Germany and its subsidiary Hansen Industrial Transmissions, is responsible for the construction and operation of the Global R&D Centre. The Global R&D Centre brings together know-how from the Group's development departments around the world to further develop industrial gear units and at the same time lay the foundations for innovative approaches and technologies.

For Hansen Industrial Transmissions NV, which is celebrating its 95th anniversary, the opening ceremony was also the prelude to an anniversary year. "For Sumitomo Heavy Industries, the opening of this global R&D center is a recognition of the extensive know-how of our experts and our leading position in the world of industrial transmissions," said Eric Goos, General Manager of the Edegem plant and host of the opening event. Shaun Dean said: "This move to establish the global R&D center in Edegem is a milestone for PTC. We are getting closer to talent, knowledge and the market by leveraging the expertise in our global transmission business unit. This is the first time that PTC has shifted its responsibilities outside Japan. We should actively use this opportunity not only to develop next-generation transmission solutions and technologies, but also to provide a platform for new and young talent to join our company."

Minister of Labour visits

The centre was officially opened in the presence of the Flemish Minister of Labour, Economy, Innovation and Sport, Philippe Muyters, the Mayor of Edegem, Koen Metsu, the Deputy Managing Director of the VDMA Power Transmission Association, Dirk Decker, Vice President of Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Shaun Dean and the President of the Strategic Business Unit Transmissions, Tatsuro Araki. The R&D center is headed by Shigeru Watanabe and employs nine people.