ebm-papst prioritizes the manufacturing of components for medical supply parts at the highest level

The manufacturing of components for medical technology has the highest priority at ebm-papst. (Source: Philipp Reinhard)

The dramatic course of the COVID-19 pandemic is leading to rapidly increasing demand for medical equipment worldwide. At the same time, supply chains for medical technology are under pressure. It is now crucial to avoid bottlenecks as much as possible, because good medical and medical-technical care are essential in dealing with the dangerous virus.

ebm-papst has been manufacturing components for ventilators for many years. In view of the current situation, the group management has prioritized the production and delivery of medical-technical components at all ebm-papst locations worldwide. Specifically, it concerns the fulfillment of demand for components for ventilators and respiratory protection devices (PAPR), as well as analysis devices in laboratory settings. Existing customers are requesting expedited deliveries and increased batch sizes. Additionally, ebm-papst is receiving many new inquiries – sometimes in the six-figure quantity range – from well-known companies in both the medical technology sector and other industries. Compared to before the pandemic, inquiries have currently increased fifteenfold.

For ventilators, ebm-papst supplies a variety of products. In addition to motors, motor controls, and related electronics, complete radial blowers from the fan and motor manufacturer are used. So far, the increased demand has been met by significantly expanding capacities in this area.

»Thanks to the extraordinary commitment of employees and the excellent work of the sales, production, and purchasing departments, decisions are being made in close coordination regarding the targeted deployment of our resources and capacities,« emphasizes Jochen Schultheiß – Sales Manager Medical/Compact Air Technology.

ebm-papst will do everything in the coming months to continue meeting the increased demand. However, bottlenecks cannot be completely ruled out, as the additional inquiry volumes far exceed the current increased delivery quantities. Furthermore, the production of components is distributed across various locations and countries, which in turn requires a functioning global supply chain.
"We see it as our social responsibility to meet the increased demand in the medical technology sector and are doing everything in our power to adjust production capacities accordingly. Our top priorities are to protect the health of our employees, maintain business operations, and ensure the supply to our customers," says Stefan Brandl, CEO of the ebm-papst Group.