In a strategic move, Bosch Rexroth (more precisely, the Bosch Group) has acquired as of Oct. 31, 2005, Netherlands-based Nyquist BV, a leading provider of industrial motion control solutions focusing on the semiconductor and medical manufacturing industries. Nyquist, with 2004 sales of around 10 million euros, has established a solid reputation in the motion control arena and a global customer base since it became independent from Royal Philips Electronics NV, in 1998. Nyquist products will be assigned to the Bosch Rexroth part of the organization. Terms of the purchase are not disclosed.
The acquisition enables Bosch Rexroth to provide complete motion control systems for the semiconductor and medical manufacturing markets, which are typically served by companies offering only individual components, according to the company. ‘With this acquisition we’ve positioned Bosch Rexroth as a key problem-solver and design partner in both of these markets,’ says Wolfgang Dangel, president and CEO for Bosch Rexroth in North America.’ By adding Nyquist’s products we can offer solutions not just as individual components, but also as combined products all from one source to help OEMs streamline their machine design, engineering, supply chain and assembly needs…[It’s] an advantage over other companies that can only provide single solutions.’
Eric Hezemans, Nyquist’s CEO, is equally enthusiastic about the acquisition. He also noted the possibility of bringing complete solutions to customers—now including high-power drives, motors, linear-guidance products, plus worldwide support. ‘This takeover underlines the success of our focus strategy with motion control as a core competence. Our customers can rest assured that we will continue to strengthen our product lines and further develop our strategy to provide solutions that match precisely their requirements,’ he said.
Bosch Rexroth offers drive, motion, and control products for front-/back-end equipment, interbay automated material-handling systems, and support equipment (electronic drives and controls, linear motion, and pneumatics) for semiconductor manufacturing. It also provides linear motion products and certified structural aluminum framing for cleanroom-certified systems. While Bosch Rexroth already serves the semiconductor and medical manufacturing markets, this acquisition must be considered especially complementary.
Frank J. Bartos, executive editor, Control Engineering, [email protected]
