Induction hardening machine for rivets STIHL special machine design. Special tasks require special solutions. Consequently, STIHL itself produces the machines that are unavailable on the market. The essential advantages of in-house special machine design are competence in our core business, the close proximity to R&D and manufacturing and the associated rapid response times. Among other equipment, the following machines are developed and build: Production machines for saw chains Test cells for 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines Assembly lines for chainsaws and other products, with integrated fully- and partial automated work stations Machining equipment for magnesium castings, die-cast pistons and steel connecting rods Special machines for guide bar production (handling, assembly, induction hardening, and laser welding of the guide bars) Automation systems for the Parts and Plastics Production Center The special machine and equipment design department employs about 60 people and consists of mechanical and electrical design, a final assembly group and job order management.

Is the STIHL special machine design department in competition with external suppliers? Yes! For larger projects, the central planning department obtains competitive bids. In general, the order is awarded to the company offering the best cost/performance ratio. Given the depth of production at STIHL, how are the many and wide-ranging tasks in your special machine design department managed? The design and assembly employees of our special machine design department are mainly active in the assembly area, chain production, and machining and automation departments. What is the advantage for the customer who buys a STIHL product made with a STIHL special machine? The special machines are genuine "STIHL" equipment. Processes are monitored and results measured, analyzed and tested. For example, integrated measuring stations and camera systems ensure quality when joining the U-sprockets in the 3-piece guide bar. Are dealers also supplied with machines from your special machine design department? Yes. You may be familiar with the semi-automated chain-shortening table, which is offered to our dealer. With the chain-shortening machine, every desired chain length can be produced rapidly and with high quality.