Hexonic: Systems for tomorrow’s heat supply, from source to user

Meeting customer needs

Hexonic’s commitment to catering to its customers’ needs is reflected by the continuous expansion of its product line. In its search for optimal solutions, the company closely follows all trends, needs, and developments of the heat exchanger market and adjusts accordingly. Christian Huhn gave some hints about several new product releases coming from Hexonic over the course of 2024. “We’ve already announced our first product release of the year, the LF700, which is the world’s biggest brazed plate heat exchanger. The compactness of this unit is key. If you need a product with a small footprint, then the LF700 is the absolute right solution for this problem.”

The LF700 heat exchanger boasts increased turbulence and flow velocity, delivering heightened heat exchange efficiency and reduced process time. Its plate construction effectively diminishes flow resistance, ensuring optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Equipped with DN150 connections, it is tailored for applications with larger media flows. Moreover, its gasket-free design enables it to withstand high operating temperatures, making it ideal for processes requiring elevated heat levels compared to conventional plate and frame heat exchangers with similar specifications.

Another major focus for Hexonic is high-performance units intended to improve the plate design and pay more attention to heat transfer efficiency. Currently, the company is working with several different types of high-performance plate heat exchangers, especially in the areas where they will prove to be the most useful. In particular, these units are specifically engineered to fit certain applications where space and heat transfer capacity are limited.

In addition, Christian explained that there are more announcements to come in Hexonic’s lines of asymmetric heat exchangers and double-wall brazed plate heat exchangers. These are intended for systems where it is crucial to help protect media from mixing, and to quickly detect any possible leaks. All of these product line additions will further solidify the company’s profile as a reliable partner ready to address their customers’ every concern. Aside from exciting updates to Hexonic’s portfolio, the company stays current with their existing applications, which have found many loyal users throughout the globe. The plate and shell heat exchanger JAG Shield was recently updated, and the fan-favourite selection software CAIRO remains up to date, allowing customers to browse Hexonic’s portfolio even from their smartphones.

Breaking new ground

Following the acquisition of Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification at the end of 2022, Hexonic set its eye on the refrigeration market. Expanding into the refrigeration market was not a snap decision for Hexonic; it came after meticulous market analysis and strategic planning.

The company’s leadership recognized the burgeoning opportunities presented by the heat pump trend in Germany and seized the moment to diversify their offerings. By leveraging their expertise and newly acquired UL certification, Hexonic positioned itself as a formidable player in the cooling solutions sector. This move not only underscores Hexonic’s commitment to innovation but also reflects its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of its clientele.

In order to keep up with demands for increasingly energy-friendly products in the refrigeration industry, Hexonic actively keeps its product line up-to-date. The company has introduced significant improvements to its refrigeration product portfolio, which includes brazed heat exchangers, plate and frame heat exchangers, shell and tube heat exchangers, and more.

Perhaps most notably, Hexonic launched a new product called D.COOL, a dry cooler that combines high performance with reliability and the cheapest waste heat dispersion method. “With D.COOL there are no limits in terms of customization; we can combine it with our a shell and coil, plate and frame or Brazed Plate Heat Exchnager, whatever the customer wants, we deliver. This makes Hexonic a one-stop shop for all your cooling needs,” explains Christian.

Navigating changing landscapes

In the ever-evolving landscape of energy solutions, adaptability is key. As Christian emphasizes, “With our wide and deep product portfolio, we can find the right solution for each application.” This versatility extends beyond mere product offerings; it encompasses comprehensive system solutions tailored to specific needs. Whether it is selecting the ideal heat exchanger technology for a particular application in the food and beverage industry or addressing the challenges posed by the energy transition, Hexonic prides itself on providing holistic solutions.

As the world shifts towards renewable and green energy sources, the demand for innovative solutions intensifies. With the rise of geothermal energy and ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) systems as leading choices for renewable heat sources, Hexonic is ready to provide heat exchanger solutions for these systems. “The world needs heat exchangers everywhere,” Christian asserts, highlighting the crucial role these components play in facilitating the transition towards sustainable energy practices.

For Hexonic, energy transition is a topic of the highest interest. Christian explains that the challenges that come with it give the company opportunities to learn and develop ideal solutions. “As we look to the future, Hexonic remains committed to pioneering solutions that address pressing environmental challenges. By leveraging our expertise and embracing innovation, we aim to play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future.”

Rising to the challenge

In the face of global energy challenges, Hexonic remains committed to driving change and embracing opportunities. As traditional energy sources fall from favour and the focus shifts towards renewables, Hexonic is at the forefront of innovation. From district heating to hydrogen production, the company is actively involved in research and development projects aimed at shaping the future of energy. “We try to be involved in both upcoming and existing energy source solutions,” Christian explains. This commitment extends beyond product provision; it embodies a dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Through participation in industry events and a focus on collaborative solutions, Hexonic is poised to lead the way towards a zero CO2 emission energy future, ensuring that tomorrow’s energy sources are both efficient and environmentally responsible. The company’s motto is ‘we breathe heat transfer’, as Christian elaborates: “Within the topic of energy transition, there is a complex chain spanning from the energy source itself to the user. Our products are here to support this chain at any point in its evolution. Hexonic has system solutions for different applications; we will always find the right fit.”

“When you talk with people from Hexonic,” Christian continues “You can tell them about which solutions and applications you’re looking for, and then we will find the product to fit your specific needs, rather than saying ‘We have this and only this product, and you have to find an application for it.’ It doesn’t work like that with us.” Christian describes this philosophy as offering ‘simple systems solutions’ where the product adjusts to the problem, not the other way around.

Global expansion

In addition to company’s growing product portfolio, Hexonic is also firmly set on physically expanding its presence in the world. In 2022 and 2023, the company opened two new entities; one in India and Kazakhstan, which are going strong. In India, in particular, Hexonic plans on opening a workshop for assembly purposes very soon and establishing a warehouse to make sure products can be swiftly available for delivery to their clients. And speaking of workshops, another one was established in the US, which, paired with the UL certification, fortifies the company’s position in North America.

Another substantial market that Hexonic is hoping to transition into is the Middle East. The company has already opened an office in Dubai, which is hard at work exploring the market and region in order to present itself as a useful and reliable partner for the most pressing problems that require prompt and precise solutions. As Christian notes: “Each market has its vision. We like to ask: in which direction does it want to go? Which trends does it want to follow? And Hexonic will be there to accommodate accordingly.”

Hexonic’s European operations are booming as well. According to Christian: “We have extended our presence in France, Spain, Portugal, and Southeast Europe. Hexonic continues to extend its global footprint.” That being said, the company’s target is still to maintain its main factory in Poland. The Nowy Dwór Gdan´ ski facility will continue to provide the main parts and components for the various international workshops. “This enables local teams to manufacture on location with short delivery times, and that’s the key for us,” says Christian.

Company values

Hexonic’s evolution towards system solutions exemplifies its commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and sustainability. Huhn’s insights underscore the company’s proactive approach to addressing industry challenges and driving meaningful change. With a steadfast focus on excellence and collaboration, Hexonic is poised to redefine the landscape of heat transfer solutions and emerge as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving industry.

“Hexonic’s journey towards system solutions reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability. By prioritizing customer needs and embracing emerging technologies, we aim to redefine the future of heat transfer solutions and drive positive change in the industry,” shares Christian.

In addition, Hexonic’s commitment to honesty and transparency is supported by its people and culture. “We are a company driven by ambition, vision, and ideas, still proudly family-owned. We rely on our own resources, a fact that fills me with pride. In the past couple of years, we’ve witnessed remarkable product development achieved by our small but dedicated team. Our growth, fuelled by familial and collective aspirations, underscores our resolve.” As Hexonic looks toward the future, plans for team expansion in Germany signal a trajectory of continued success and evolution, a testament to the spirit of unity and purpose that defines the company.