KVK Koerner: Five decades of innovation

KVK Koerner originally started out as the Körner boatyard, specializing in the construction of sailing boats. These early years laid the foundation for the high level of quality and manufacturing expertise that still characterizes the company today.

In the 1970s, KVK Koerner started with acid protection activities for hot-dip galvanizing plants, which marked the first step into the construction of chemical plants. In 1974, the first pickling tanks made of glass fiber-reinforced synthetic resin were built, a milestone that set the course for future developments. In the years that followed, KVK pickling tanks became established in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Under the management of Franz Wurm, the family business with around 20 employees was transformed into “Koerner Chemieanlagenbau Gesellschaft m.b.H.”, which further promoted the growth and professionalization of the company. KVK pickling tanks conquer the European markets from Norway to Spain and Turkey.

During this time, KVK Koerner expanded its portfolio to include integrated extraction systems with exhaust air scrubbers to effectively clean the pickling fumes, which was particularly important for hot-dip galvanizers and pipe picklers.

The construction of the first fully enclosed pickling lines based on the innovative KVK concept set new standards in the industry and strengthened the company's market position as a leading supplier of hot-dip galvanizing lines.

During this decade, KVK Koerner became a global player and general contractor, building plants in various parts of the world, including Europe, Japan, Australia and the Middle East.

During this decade, KVK Koerner successfully expanded its global presence and introduced innovative, energy-efficient technologies. This phase was characterized by significant developments in environmentally friendly systems that increased productivity while minimizing the environmental footprint. 

Today, KVK Koerner employs around 80 people and continues to be at the forefront of technological development. With a share capital of EUR 800,000 and modern headquarters in Wies, Austria, the company remains true to its reputation as an innovator and focuses on sustainable technologies and highly efficient system solutions.