From cable assembly to co-development: WAAK supports Stelrad Radiator Group

WAAK is entering an innovative collaboration with Stelrad Radiator Group (SRG), applying its cable assembly expertise to the high-quality low-temperature radiators. From co-development to product optimisation and even the design of custom packaging, this project demonstrates how WAAK collaborates closely with the customer and provides comprehensive support at every level.

WAAK launches collaboration with radiator manufacturer Stelrad Radiator Group

WAAK recently initiated a partnership with Stelrad Radiator Group (SRG). This international company, with locations in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium, Turkey, and Italy, focuses on the development, production, and sale of radiators. With nearly five million radiators sold annually, SRG is a market leader, heating millions of homes across Europe with its innovative products.

More efficient, energy-saving heating with SRG’s low-temperature radiators

Stelrad Radiator Group is taking low-temperature radiators to the next level: the latest generation of radiators performs optimally at supply temperatures of just 30°C to 55°C, making them perfectly suited for use with heat pumps and hybrid heating systems. At lower supply temperatures, a heat pump consumes less energy to heat the water to the desired temperature, while hybrid systems only activate the boiler when truly necessary. As a result, SRG’s heat pump radiators provide high comfort and very low energy consumption in well-insulated and newly built homes.

Integrated fan ensures optimal heat distribution 

To distribute heat more efficiently in homes, Stelrad Radiator Group developed a heat pump radiator with an integrated fan and smart control system. The fan spreads the heat faster and more evenly throughout the home, enhancing comfort while also making the system more energy-efficient.

Building on WAAK’s cable assembly expertise

For the development of cables and wire harnesses for the new heat pump radiator, SRG, who lacked this expertise in-house, relied on WAAK’s know-how. As an experienced cable assembly manufacturer in the HVAC sector, WAAK has an integrated co-engineering department that supports customers in the design and optimisation of cable harnesses. After thorough consultations with this department and the quality team, it became clear to SRG that collaboration was the right choice.

Customised plug-and-play-solution optimises assembly process

The fact that WAAK offers not only cable assembly but also metal assembly proved to be a major advantage for Stelrad Radiator Group. To streamline the integration of the cable harness into the system, the engineering teams of both companies developed a metal holder in which the wire harness can be integrated. This plug-and-play subassembly can then be mounted on the assembly line quickly and error-free, saving time while improving quality and reliability.

WAAK impresses with co-development approach and thorough quality control

WAAK Cable Assembly not only impressed Stelrad Radiator Group with its co-development approach, but also with the carefully executed process of prototyping, testing, adjusting, and refining. This methodology results in a final product that fully meets the customer’s requirements. SRG was particularly impressed by WAAK’s thorough quality control: from incoming inspections to functional, mechanical, and electrical testing, nothing is left to chance. Sam Vervoort, R&D Project Engineer, comments: “Visiting the WAAK site in Kuurne was a real eye-opener for us and only strengthened our commitment to continue this great collaboration.”

The icing on the cake: Specially developed packaging

As no suitable packaging was available on the market, WAAK developed a packaging solution tailored specifically to SRG’s product. WAAK opted for a packaging design that is as standardized as possible, ensuring logistical efficiency while providing maximum protection. According to Sam Vervoort, this “sustainable, eco-friendly, and attractive solution demonstrates that practical protection and environmental care can go hand in hand.”

This in-house developed solution also illustrates why companies enjoy working with WAAK. Whether it involves co-development, co-engineering, or process optimisation, WAAK provides end-to-end support, taking care of customers at every level. In this way, they deliver maximum return on investment for their clients.