Vilmet Oy has made approximately 4 million euros in investments in the latest technology and capacity expansion over the past five years. The most recent significant investment was made in March 2024 when the company acquired a Correa Norma L-80 long-bed milling machine. This device, which significantly increases machining capacity, also required a 300-square-meter extension to the workshop.
The Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centre) of Central Finland has granted business development aid for companies’ investment projects from the funds of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the “Renewing and Competent Finland 2021–2027” program, part of the EU’s regional and structural policy. The key criteria for the acquisition were productivity, digitalization, the green transition, as well as increasing long-bed milling capacity and the versatility of the new machine. The innovative design of the Correa Norma L-80, which features two independent working areas, enables increased machining efficiency. While one part is being machined in one area, setup for the next job can simultaneously take place in the other. This feature significantly reduces idle times and maximizes machine utilization.
The machinery acquisition also supports Vilmet Oy’s commitment to more environmentally friendly production. The Correa Norma L-80 is equipped with an advanced coolant collection and filtration system, which extends the lifespan of coolants and reduces their consumption. This minimizes the need for waste management, lowers costs, and promotes a circular economy. Additionally, the machine’s latest technology optimizes energy usage, leading to significant electricity savings. Improving energy efficiency is a key part of the machine shop’s strategy to meet increasing environmental demands and reduce its carbon footprint.
With the new long milling machine, Vilmet can now handle workpieces up to 8,000 millimeters in length, whereas the previous maximum was 5,000 millimeters. This increase in capacity opens new business opportunities, enhances the company’s competitiveness, and allows for operational expansion. The investment not only supports Vilmet’s financial growth but also creates more jobs in Vilppula, strengthening the region’s employment and vitality.
Vilmet’s strategic decision to invest in advanced machining technologies, expand production facilities, and adopt environmentally responsible solutions demonstrates the company’s commitment to long-term growth, development, and the promotion of sustainable industry.
The growth continues with new machinery investments.
Vilmet Oy continues its growth strategy with significant new investments of 1.2 million euros during 2025. In March 2025, the company will acquire a new horizontal machining center, the MAZAK HCN-8800. This is yet another step toward increasing the company’s capacity and efficiency. The MAZAK HCN-8800 is a state-of-the-art machine, particularly suited for mass production, offering significant technological advantages. Its innovative technology reduces the workload of employees, as the machine automates several machining processes.
This is especially important during the current labor shortage, as it is easier to find workers for machine maintenance tasks than for actual machining. Thus, Vilmet can optimize its workforce and meet production demands more efficiently.
Investments will continue in the fall of 2025, when Vilmet Oy will receive its fourth welding robot. This expansion of automation supports the company’s efficiency and quality in mass production, particularly in handling large components. Although some of these investments serve as replacement upgrades for older equipment, they are also a key part of the company’s efforts to attract new customers and projects.
Vilmet’s active marketing to leverage its new capacities has already yielded results. In particular, the opportunities brought by the Correa Norma L-80 have opened new collaboration channels, and the company has succeeded in securing new projects. The technological advantages of the Correa and the growing production capacity enable the acceptance of larger and more complex orders.
Vilmet Oy’s investments not only enhance the company’s production efficiency and technological leadership, but they also support its long-term growth strategy, expand its customer base, and strengthen the regional economy.
