Everyday Innovation

Extraordinary innovation is a product of ordinary workdays at Oerlikon. The results have an impact on diverse markets, including tooling, automotive, aerospace, power generation, polymer processing and textiles.

Innovation is and will continue to be our key strength, we remain committed to the planned levels of R&D spending, as well as to activities such as digitalization, which will position us for future successes.

Executive Chairman of the Board, Michael Suess

The #3 Most Innovative Company in Switzerland in 2023

This ranking brought together by BILANZ Wirtschaftsmagazin, PME and Statista celebrates companies that stand out in various areas. The criteria looked at our ability to innovate in every aspect of our business, from the products we create to our company culture that encourages fresh ideas and entrepreneurship. Particularly significant was our contribution in research, development, production, distribution and marketing. Plus, a special shoutout to all the patents and trademarks we hold, which speak volumes about our dedication to innovation. The voice of the people played a big role in recognizing Oerlikon’s innovation. A huge thanks to the 8,900 individuals, who shared their thoughts on the 500 companies in more than 45,000 reviews. We are humbled by this recognition and remain committed to driving innovation at every step!

Where You Have Met Our Innovations

You may not have known or thought about it, but our innovations from Oerlikon can be found in your daily life. It is easy to say that we can be found from the bottom of the ocean all the way to outter space.

The daily commute

Industrial yarn plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance and durability of cars and other vehicles. This specialized yarn, often made from materials like polyester or nylon, is utilized in various components such as seat belts, airbags, tires, and upholstery.

To keep you on time

From watches to lifestyle equipment, from vacuum cleaners to coffee machines — consumer goods need to be reliable, durable and attractive. Most household appliances, consumer goods and sports equipment use metal or plastic parts. Coating these parts with coatings from Oerlikon enhances and improves the performance and service life of modern consumer goods and keeps your watch on point.

When something is broken

Yarns are also used for a wide range of filter applications. They provide specific functions such as absorbency, liquid repellency, resilience, stretch, softness, strength, microbial barrier, sterility and etc. Perfect when you might need a bandage.

When you need a new tooth

Does the tooth hurt? Dental implants are the go-to solution for tooth replacement, delivering a natural look and feel. The process involves implant placement into your jawbone and attachment to a custom-made crown via an abutment. Elevating this process to new heights, Oerlikon produces advanced coatings and coating systems, ensuring top-quality and success for dental implants.

On your body

Yarn plays a crucial role in the creation of tights and various clothing items, contributing to their comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Whether it's the cozy warmth of winter tights or the elegance of a finely knit sweater, yarn is the thread that weaves comfort and fashion together.

When you use your smartphone

When you work on your computer. When you turn on a light. When you charge your phone. You use energy and Oerlikon helps energy companies to produce energy greener and in more efficient ways with our innovative coatings that make the turbines in different energy applications better.

Extreme Ingenuity for Demanding Conditions

In partnership with customers in these sectors, we improve efficiency in energy consumption, extend the lifespans of equipment and tools, promote increased materials recycling and support reductions in waste and CO₂ emissions. To maximize their effectiveness, sustainability solutions often must perform in extreme environments. That can mean exposure to extreme heat and cold or intense friction or corrosive elements. From the depths of the ocean to the horizons of outer space, Oerlikon has pioneered technology that meets these challenges. Our innovations empower our customers and their customers to optimize efficiency and productivity in any environment.

Research, Development and Digitalization

We’re in constant pursuit of further innovation or updates to our existing advances. To support our position as a technology leader, we have integrated digitalization into our R&D processes. Oerlikon’s Digital Hub in Munich, Germany accelerates our capacity for digital transformation, streamlines our operations, optimizes supply chain management and strengthens our performance in serving customer requirements.

Learn more about Digital Hub

Innovate With Us

Are you ready for a career with a company whose history of innovation dates to 1850 and whose innovative future has no end date? Explore our job opportunities and learn more about the role you can play in making a difference in the world — and in your own professional development — as a member of our team.

Find job opportunities here