Rinco Ultrasonics increases capacities in the fight against COVID-19

Ultrasound welding machines allow medical devices to be welded very quickly and reliably. (Image: Rinco Ultrasonics AG)

Serge Patamia, Managing Director of Rinco Ultrasonics. (Image: Rinco Ultrasonics AG)

Recently, Serge Patamia, Managing Director of Rinco Ultrasonics, looked into the future with mixed feelings. The economic downturn had been felt in Switzerland for several weeks. Then the coronavirus arrived in Europe and gradually all countries implemented measures – essential for people's health, but anything but beneficial for the economy. However, Serge Patamia did not bury his head in the sand, but instead intensified marketing and sales efforts. And lo and behold: requests came in overnight.

In one week, as many inquiries as in a usual month

According to Serge Patamia, the inquiries came from all over the world, especially from the medical sector and for mask manufacturing. Rinco Ultrasonics is a machine manufacturer with extensive expertise in ultrasonic welding machines and cutting systems, certified according to ISO 13485, and capable of implementing medical projects in compliance with standards. "It's crazy," says Patamia. "Yesterday, our operations were still in short-time work, and today we are working overtime. I immediately stopped the short-time work, of course. I am very happy about that. In one week, we received as many inquiries as in a typical month. They accounted for 10% of our annual turnover. Production is running at full capacity. We prioritize projects from the medical field. We are glad that we can also contribute to combating the coronavirus. Our entire team is involved and fully committed to processing the inquiries."

Rinco Ultrasonics has extended regular working hours to enable production in two shifts. Disinfectant dispensers have been installed throughout the company, and masks are distributed to employees. And those who can work from home do so. This way, the measures mandated by the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health to protect employees can still be maintained.

Extension for production, storage, and ultrasound competence center completed

Additionally, the company benefits from the new extension with 1,000 m2 of working and storage space, completed at the beginning of April. The new ultrasound competence center is also housed there. With the new capacities, production has been expanded. "We have hired three new employees and are also working on Saturdays to handle the inquiries," says Patamia. "I am happy that in this global crisis, we can offer our employees a secure job, make a social and economic contribution to Switzerland, and ensure stability. I hope the coronavirus will be defeated soon and the economy will recover quickly. That would be good for all of us. Even though the situation is difficult at the moment, I remain optimistic."