Inspiring look behind the scenes

Market leader in valve actuators, control valves and sensors organizes two-day factory visits for relations

Belimo Servomotoren BV goes for long-term relationships. Both with installers, system integrators, consultants and OEM parties, who are supported and relieved in every possible way. Following the RetroFIT+ control ball valves and actuators for renovation projects, the PreFIX prefab services (formerly: Customized Products) as well as an extensive training and education offer, the Belimo factory visits are an important contribution to this. "Four times a year we organize a two-day visit to our factory and head office in Hinwill, during which relations literally get a look behind the scenes," says Managing Director Richard Daamen. "From product development to assembly and extensive quality testing. In addition, customized training is provided and there are extensive networking opportunities."

During the factory visit, associates are completely pampered. This already starts a few days in advance, when they receive a Belimo suitcase for their hand luggage. "Each group consists of around ten installers, system integrators, consultants and OEM parties and two Belimo representatives, who fly together from Düsseldorf to Zurich," says Daamen. "The program is always tailored to the target group, but usually starts with a technical training or information session. For example, about our latest Energy Valve with thermal metering, in which certified energy measurement (MID), pressure-independent control, a Delta T manager and IoT-based billing are cleverly integrated. But also a presentation on our extensive sensor program or RetroFIT+ program for renovation projects is among the possibilities."

From semi-finished to finished product

During the last factory visit in September, several installers and an OEM partner participated. Since many had a link to project Mediavaert in Amsterdam, they opted for training on the Belimo Energy Valve™. These pressure-compensated control ball valves ensure that all floors of DPG Media's new Dutch headquarters remain running at exactly the right differential pressure as well as accurately measuring and recording energy flows, Daamen said. "The training is invariably followed by a tour of our factory, where relations can see and experience the extensive process of development, assembly and testing. What route do the products take from semi-finished to finished product? Relations can see with their own eyes that all our actuators and valves are extensively tested. Especially the endurance tests attract a lot of attention, where products are tested 24/7 at maximum load for a year." Finally, in the Experience Center, customers can experience the effect of a properly functioning climate system. What happens if CO2 levels rise too much? Or if temperatures get out of line? And how can a healthy indoor climate and energy efficiency go hand in hand?

Useful, welcoming and cozy

What strikes many at the plant and headquarters are the orderly and clean shop floor and the fine family atmosphere, Daamen says. "But also, for example, that 80% of our employees are women. A conscious choice, because they generally work more precisely. With the small parts in our field components, this is an absolute must." During the factory visit in September, Installation & Construction was also allowed to join in. "Our visit started with technical training and what immediately struck me was the sophistication of the Belimo products," explains Sheet Manager Yakup Yalcin. "A sophistication that requires knowledge, which Belimo shared in a very accessible and welcoming way. Moreover, it was very interesting to see how and by whom the products are produced from A to Z. Both during lunch, dinner and drinks afterwards, there was ample opportunity for networking and exchanging knowledge and experiences. This made the factory visit not only very useful, but also very enjoyable." 

Also of interest to you?

On the second day of travel, a fun group activity is invariably scheduled. From hiking to tobogganing, again depending on the target group. The healthy mix of knowledge sharing and relaxation appeals to many installers, system integrators, consultants and OEM parties. This is evidenced by the high interest in the factory visits. Would you like to join as well? Then get in touch with your Belimo contact person.