Engineering expertise with a focus on the big picture
Graepel stands for practical engineering and decisive action. Design engineers, manufacturing specialists, and toolmakers work closely together—physically close and mentally connected. This structure enables rapid coordination and robust solutions for customers.
Using designs created in Creo Parametrics, simulations, and in-house toolmaking, we produce sheet metal parts and systems ready for installation. Our exceptional vertical integration allows us to produce prototypes and series under the same conditions—efficiently, precisely, and in accordance with automotive standards, yet with the flexibility of a family-owned business.
Design and Development
In product development, Graepel uses Creo Parametrics—a powerful CAD system for the precise design of components, assemblies, and tools. Design engineers, manufacturing specialists, and toolmakers work in close collaboration, enabling ideas to be implemented quickly and design decisions to be coordinated directly with production.
This close integration of theory and practice shortens development times, reduces coordination loops, and enables solutions that are technically and economically sound. The customer benefits from clear points of contact, high planning reliability, and results that can be put to immediate use.
Simulation
Graepel digitally simulates tools and manufacturing processes as early as the concept phase. Deformation and stress tests are modeled virtually to understand how the material behaves under real-world conditions. This allows risks related to forming or material distribution to be identified and eliminated at an early stage.
This preventive validation prevents costly adjustments later in the series production process, increases process stability, and ensures that the first tool is already ready for series production. For the customer, this means fewer prototypes, shorter lead times, and reliable, reproducible product quality.
Toolmaking
Graepel boasts an exceptional level of vertical integration. Its in-house toolmaking department produces not only production tools but also functional samples, prototypes, and pre-production parts—all under the same quality and process standards as in subsequent series production. This allows design changes to be implemented and tested immediately.
The customer quickly receives functional components for testing and approval, which significantly shortens development cycles. This practical approach guarantees realistic test results and a smooth transition to production.
High level of vertical integration: From sheet metal processing to surface treatment
Sheet metal processing and finishing are among Graepel’s core competencies. The combination of embossing, punching, forming, and surface treatment enables the production of ready-to-install components from a single source. Whether steel, stainless steel, or aluminum—each material is precisely tailored to the stresses it will face in its final application.
Our in-house surface technology, featuring powder coating and special coatings such as Graepel ColorGrip, results in durable, corrosion-resistant products with certified slip resistance.
For customers, this means: seamless handoffs at the interfaces, high quality assurance, and maximum production control for just-in-time delivery schedules.
"When an idea needs to be turned into a tangible component, Graepel is the right partner. We integrate design and manufacturing from the very beginning, provide practical feedback, and develop robust, cost-effective solutions.
Thanks to our experience across a wide range of industries, we act quickly, reliably, and with a clear focus on our partners’ requirements. Transparent communication, clear milestones, and reliable industrialization are a given for us. I am particularly motivated when an idea evolves into a series-production product that delivers on technical performance, quality, and schedule.”
Markus Abeln
Head of Project Management, Graepel
