Koncentra Pistons manufactures pistons for the next generation engines
The more the efficiency of engines increases, the more durable pistons are required. As a company that designs and manufactures high tech large-bore pistons, Koncentra Pistons – part of the multinational industrial group Koncentra Verkstads – is a reliable supplier for the leading manufacturers of medium speed diesel and gas engines.
“In the last 20 years, we have delivered over 90,000 pistons, which are in operation in ships and power plants. To produce these piston components, we use the latest five-axis machine tools and ensure the quality by utilising, for example, shape scanning in 3D coordinate measuring machines as well as X-ray inspection for non-destructive testing”, says CEO Sakari Pisilä.
Koncentra Pistons has its own R&D team that innovates modern piston solutions to meet the requirements of the next generation of engines.
“Thanks to our multi-skilled team, we have been able to develop our own, innovative manufacturing methods. These methods not only save materials, but also reduce the number of manufacturing steps, making the process faster and more cost-effective. One of our current goals is to utilise robotisation in more complex operations in the manufacturing process.”
The pandemic had its own effects on the piston market especially due to the cancellation of cruises. However, now that almost all cruise ships are back in action and investments in marine and power generation business are being made again, the demand for pistons is increasing. Although the green transition and new fuel solutions require changes from the engine manufacturing industry, Pisilä has faith in the future.
“Gas-fuelled internal combustion engines are gaining market share from gas turbines in power plants. These engines can be started quickly, allowing fast reactions to fluctuations in energy production and consumption. As the number of wind and solar PV farms keeps increasing, internal combustion engines are needed more than ever.”
