Finding the right solutions for industries as diverse as oil and gas, medical and aviation across different markets around the world is all about keeping the customer process in focus. This ability to satisfy varying customer requirements, while adapting to local market needs, has catapulted Nikkiso into the top five global players in its highly specialised fields. "The market that we're aiming for is very small and niche," says Toshihiko Kai, president and CEO of Nikkiso. "The only way that we're able to maintain the top position is by always catering to our clients' needs and developing new and original technologies." Nikkiso's expertise started in fluid control technologies. It pioneered Japan's canned motor pumps and developed the country's first hemodialysis monitoring machines in the 1960s. It has acquired a global presence since then, accounting for about 30 per cent of the worldwide sales of canned motor pumps, which are instrumental to the chemical and process industries. With each pump customised according to specific customer requirements, Nikkiso has produced more than a billion varieties of its core product, including cryogenic pumps that are used extensively in the LNG business. Meanwhile, the company's hemodialysis monitoring machines continue to enjoy brisk sales in Japan, where Nikkiso holds a 50-per-cent market share. New versions of the machines are fully automated, allowing hospitals to maintain safe renal procedures at lower labour costs. Nikkiso is likewise established in the aviation industry. Becoming the world's first manufacturer to replace aluminium alloy with carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in aircraft components, it helped pave the way for today's lightweight and fuel-efficient aircraft. Nikkiso's thrust reverser cascades are on most commercial aircraft, with the company holding a 90-per-cent share globally as an indispensable supplier for Boeing, Airbus and Bombardier. Sales of CFRP thrust reverser components and other main wing and engine components are also increasing. "Since the launch of the Boeing 787, many industry players have asked us to develop CFRP material for the more complex equipment," Kai says. "We have been very busy developing new products." Recognising Asia's growing prominence in the global market, Nikkiso heads into the future with a special focus on durable yet economical solutions for the oil and gas industry. "The business in Asia is very important to us," Kai says. "We need to make sure that we find the right market and see what works within that market." Integrated solutions hold much promise, prompting Nikkiso to intensify collaborative pursuits with German affiliate Lewa, which complements the group in the upstream segment with its expertise in reciprocal pumps, packages and systems. "It's very important that we listen to the market and cater to the specific needs that come up," Kai says. "By integrating the pumps into a system and providing everything from planning to plumbing, we have a big chance to succeed as a group." Such integrated solutions come with after-sales service and maintenance that make the equipment last for up to 30 years and optimise operating costs throughout the lifecycle. Meanwhile, Nikkiso co-develops new-generation canned motor pumps with Germany's KSB Group for the downstream oil industry. In the medical business, a partnership with the Weigao Group establishes a strong footprint in China and export possibilities. Weigao's capability in hemodialysis consumables such as blood dialysers and its strong local sales network complement Nikkiso's sophisticated technology for the fast-growing renal business in China. "The priority lies more in keeping the superiority of our original technologies through constant advances and retaining the advantage that we have," Kai says. "And I think by pursuing that, we'll actually see the results." Nikkiso www.nikkiso.com
