Driving innovation with Precision: ETEL S.A. is your partner for cutting edge motion technology
ETEL S.A., part of the HEIDENHAIN Corporate Group, pioneers cutting-edge motion technology from its Swiss headquarters. With a focus on high-precision and high-dynamic solutions, we enable our customers to achieve outstanding performances and strengthen their competitive advantage in their market. From ultra-precise motion systems over high-end motion control to high performance torque and linear motors, we continuously extend our product portfolio to meet new market requirements.
Driven by a commitment to innovation, we anticipate market demands and collaborate within the HEIDENHAIN Corporate Group to push the boundaries of what’s possible. With global distribution and a relentless pursuit of excellence in quality and reliability, we’re your ideal partner for precision-driven solutions. Join us in shaping the future of motion technology.
Facts & figures
Approximately 300 employees
With a workforce of approximately 300 employees, ETEL boasts a diverse team of talent, including 40% engineers. Our employees are the driving force behind our innovative solutions, bringing a wealth of expertise and creativity to every project.
Average age of 45
With an average age of 45, our team comprises seasoned professionals dedicated to excellence in their respective fields. Their long-term experience ensures that our solutions meet the highest standards of quality and performance.
14700 m2 building space in Switzerland
Situated in Switzerland, our expansive building space of 14700 m2 provides a modern and efficient working environment for our team to thrive. From cutting-edge production facilities to collaborative workspaces, we prioritize providing the resources necessary for success.
21 nationalities
Spanning across 21 nationalities, our team embodies a rich tapestry of cultures and perspectives. This diverse blend of backgrounds fosters collaboration and innovation, enabling us to tackle challenges with a global mindset.
ETEL Production sites within the group
With three production sites spread across Europe, ETEL maintains a strong international presence. This strategic positioning allows us to efficiently serve diverse markets while upholding our commitment to quality and reliability.
Average seniority of 12 years
At ETEL, our team has an average length of service of 12 years, reflecting a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Each member brings a deep understanding of their role, ensuring that every project benefits from years of honed skills and industry knowledge.
around 15% R&D investment of Sales
Investing approximately 15% of our sales revenue into research and development, innovation lies at the core of everything we do. This dedicated investment ensures that we remain at the forefront of technological advancements, delivering solutions that exceed expectations.
Management and key contacts
Connect with our experienced management team and key contacts at ETEL S.A. Our dedicated professionals are here to support your needs and guide you through our cutting-edge motion technology solutions. Reach out to us today to start a conversation about how we can help drive your success.
OUR VISION
ETEL enables new technologies – as a dynamic, internationally recognized Swiss brand we put innovation, people and strategic partnerships first.
OUR MISSION
Excellence in motion
Partnering with the HEIDENHAIN Corporate Group, we prioritize customer respect and trust. Our focus is on developing high-performance, cost-effective direct drive motors, motion controllers, motion systems and software solutions aligned with market needs. Utilizing HEIDENHAIN’s manufacturing network ensures quality throughout the value chain. With our dedicated and skilled employees we shape our future, and we commit to sustainability through value generation and strategic long-term orientation.
Our values
Discover the core values that drive us. We are committed to innovation, precision, and reliability, ensuring that our products exceed industry standards. With a focus on excellence and ownership, we strive to deliver exceptional solutions.
At ETEL, we take ownership of our work, our products, and our commitments. We believe in accountability and responsibility, driving us to deliver results that exceed expectations.
Respect is at the heart of everything we do. We value diversity, collaboration, and open communication, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone’s contributions are valued and respected.
Excellence is our standard. We are dedicated to continuous improvement and strive for excellence in everything we do, from product development to customer service, ensuring that we always deliver the highest quality solutions.
Trust is the foundation of our relationships. We build trust through honesty, transparency, and integrity, earning the confidence of our customers, partners, and colleagues.
Passion drives us. We are passionate about innovation, precision, and technology, fueling our determination to push boundaries and create solutions that make a difference.
Ensuring excellence: our management system
At ETEL, we prioritize quality, safety, and environmental responsibility. Our management system, aligned with international standards, guarantees clarity, compliance, and continuous improvement.
Our management system, crafted to meet ISO 9001 standards, ensures transparent processes, clear responsibilities, and adherence to regulations. From quality objectives to occupational health and safety measures, we’re committed to excellence in every aspect of our operations.
We empower our employees to uphold our standards while providing them with the necessary support and resources. Through regular analysis and evaluation, we continuously strive for enhancement, ensuring the well-being of our employees and the preservation of our environment.
History and milestones
Established in 1974 as a spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETEL has been at the forefront of commercializing direct drive technology. Renowned for pioneering advancements in this field, ETEL has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing industries worldwide.
The Birth of ETEL
ETEL embarked on its journey of innovation and technological advancement in 1974 with its foundation by Dr. Nicolas Wavre. Since then, ETEL has remained at the forefront of the industry, pioneering groundbreaking solutions that have redefined motion control technology.
Pioneering Linear Motors
ETEL’s commitment to innovation was evident in 1977 with the development of the first linear motors for motorizing warehouse doors. This breakthrough technology transformed warehouse automation, enhancing efficiency and productivity in logistics operations.
Breakthrough in Motor Design
In 1981, ETEL made waves in the industry with the design of the first brushless torque motor tailored specifically for the food industry. This innovation revolutionized food processing technology, setting new standards for efficiency and reliability.
Expansion and Innovation
ETEL achieved a significant milestone with the delivery of large torque motors for telescopes, showcasing its prowess in precision engineering. This period also witnessed the relocation of ETEL to its new headquarters in Môtiers, Switzerland, providing a solid foundation for future growth and innovation.
Pushing Boundaries with High-Force Linear Motors
The development of high-force linear motors in 1992 demonstrated ETEL’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of motion control technology. These motors offered enhanced performance and reliability, paving the way for their widespread adoption in industrial automation and manufacturing processes.
Advancements in Motion Technology
ETEL made significant progress in drive technology in 1996 with the introduction of a new standard programme for direct drive motors and the first digital standard position controllers. The company also laid the foundations for future growth and expansion with the first extension to its headquarters.
Pioneering Precision Positioning
The introduction of the first precision positioning system in 1998 marked a significant advancement in motion control technology, further establishing ETEL as an innovator in the industry. This milestone set the stage for future developments and innovations in precision motion control solutions.
Strategic Partnership Formation
ETEL reached an important milestone in 1999 when it was acquired by DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH, propelling ETEL to become the world’s largest supplier of direct drives. The establishment of ETEL GmbH in Germany further strengthened ETEL’s market position and laid the foundation for future growth and success.
Quality Certification Milestone
Achieving ISO 9001 certification in 2000 demonstrated ETEL’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The launch of the DSC position controllers family and the opening of ETEL Inc. in the USA further expanded ETEL’s global footprint and solidified its position as a leading provider of motion control solutions.
European Market Penetration
Expansion into France and The Netherlands in 2003-2002 marked another significant milestone for ETEL, further strengthening its presence in Europe. Serial production of high-performance motion systems with nanometer precision during this period underscored ETEL’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to its customers worldwide.
Global Expansion Initiatives
With the establishment of new subsidiaries in Switzerland, Italy, and Singapore, ETEL expanded its global presence and enhanced its ability to serve customers in key markets. Development of an outstanding range of standard systems during this period further solidified ETEL’s reputation for innovation and excellence in motion control technology.
Strengthening Asian Market Presence
ETEL continued its expansion into the Asian market in 2007-2006 with the opening of a subsidiary in Taiwan, further strengthening its foothold in the region. The third headquarters extension during this period underscored ETEL’s commitment to innovation and growth as a leading provider of motion control solutions.
Scaling Manufacturing Excellence
The year 2008 marked a significant milestone for ETEL with the fourth building extension in Môtiers dedicated to systems manufacturing. This expansion reflects ETEL’s commitment to meeting growing demand and providing cutting-edge motion control solutions to its customers worldwide.
Precision Revolution
ETEL made significant strides in motion control technology in 2010 with the launch of a new motion control family, AccurET & UltimET, offering unparalleled precision and performance. Expansion into Korea and Great Britain further expanded ETEL’s reach, positioning the company as a global leader in motion control solutions.
Powering Industrial Performance
In 2011, ETEL introduced the high-speed torque motor family (TMK), offering exceptional performance and reliability for demanding industrial applications. Expansion into China and Hong Kong with new offices further strengthened ETEL’s global presence and reinforced its commitment to serving customers worldwide.
Tailoring Solutions for Semiconductor Industry
During this period, ETEL introduced new advanced motion system platforms, including those specifically tailored to accommodate 450 mm wafer processes, further solidifying its position as a leader in precision motion control technology. These advancements highlight ETEL’s ongoing efforts to address the evolving needs of the semiconductor industry with innovative solutions.
Streamlined Sales Integration
Since 2014, ETEL’s sales offices have seamlessly integrated with local HEIDENHAIN subsidiaries, and as of 2019, ETEL products are exclusively distributed through the HEIDENHAIN sales network.
Innovating Flexibility and Performance
The year 2015 saw ETEL’s continued commitment to innovation with the release of new standard rotary axes and combined modules, offering enhanced flexibility and performance to meet the evolving demands of industrial automation and manufacturing processes. These advancements underscore ETEL’s dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions to its global customer base.
Advancing Precision and Reliability
ETEL marked another milestone in 2016 with the launch of its modular and scalable active isolation system, QuiET, designed to minimize vibrations and enhance precision in motion systems. Additionally, the establishment of an additional R&D center in Biel underscores ETEL’s commitment to driving innovation and excellence in motion control technology.
Comprehensive Solutions Unveiled
In 2017, ETEL showcased its dedication to providing comprehensive solutions by introducing the widest scope of supply yet, made possible through forward integration. This strategic move reinforces ETEL’s position as a one-stop destination for high-performance motion systems tailored to diverse industrial applications.
Precision Redefined
Continuing its commitment to innovation, ETEL unveiled a new advanced motion system platform family, ushering in a new era of precision and efficiency in motion control solutions. This milestone reflects ETEL’s ongoing dedication to pushing the boundaries of technological advancement to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
New cooperation and relocation
ETEL initiated the relocation of motor production from Switzerland to RSF in the Czech Republic.
New advanced position controllers
The ACCURET+100 and 300 represent the first two members of the 4th generation
50-year anniversary
As ETEL celebrates its 50th anniversary, it reflects on half a century of relentless innovation and unwavering commitment to excellence. Throughout its journey, ETEL has continually pushed the boundaries of technology, shaping the future of motion control and positioning systems.
HEIDENHAIN Corporate Group
HEIDENHAIN develops and manufactures linear and angle encoders, rotary encoders and numerical controls for demanding positioning tasks. ETEL has been part of the HEIDENHAIN Corporate Group since the late 1990s and has been able to extend its competitive advantage in various high-end markets. HEIDENHAIN and ETEL solutions are used in high-precision production facilities for semiconductors and electronic components as well as in applications such as metrology, ultra-precise machining, advanced robotics and automation, and medical technology.
HEIDENHAIN Corporate Group subsidiaries
With numerous subsidiaries, sales offices and representatives, we are close to our customers all over the world and offer an efficient sales and support network that is optimally trained and able to provide technical advice and support in the selection, integration and use of our products.
Zone Industrielle
CH-2112 Môtiers
Switzerland
Pamelse Klei 47
1760 Roosdaal
Belgium
No. 6, Tian Wei San Jie, Area A
Beijing Tianzhu Airport Industrial
Zone Shunyi District
Beijing 101312
China
Dolnoměcholupská 12b
102 00 Praha 10
Hostivař
Czech Republic
2 Avenue de la Cristallerie
92310 Sèvres
France
Technisches Büro Südwest II
Verkauf ETEL
Schillgasse 14
78661 Dietingen
Germany
200 London Road
Burgess Hill West Sussex
RH 15 9RD
United Kingdom
Via Giuseppe De Notaris 52
20128 Milano (MI)
Resources & sustainability
We are committed to sustainability and to environmentally conscious practices to minimise the impact of our products and processes on the environment. We are shaping a sustainable future through innovation and responsible behaviour.