Selecting the right elastomer is an important step when designing or sourcing seals, profiles, and other flexible components. The material affects product lifetime, manufacturing methods, maintenance requirements, and overall costs.

EPDM, TPE, and TPU are all widely used engineering materials, but each has different strengths. This guide provides a practical overview of where each material performs best and when another option may be more suitable.

EPDM, TPE, and TPU at a glance

While these materials share some characteristics, they are typically selected for different applications.

When EPDM is the right choice

EPDM has long been one of the most common materials for sealing applications exposed to outdoor conditions. It offers excellent resistance to weathering, UV radiation, ozone, and moisture, making it well suited for long service lives in demanding environments.

Typical applications include:

• Building and façade seals
• Window and door systems
• Outdoor equipment

EPDM is often the preferred option when environmental resistance is more important than abrasion resistance.

When TPE is the right choice

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) combines rubber-like flexibility with the processing advantages of thermoplastics. It is a versatile material that can be extruded into complex custom profiles and suits a wide range of industrial sealing applications. It also offers a full RAL color scheme to meet a wide range of requirements.

For many manufacturers, TPE also supports sustainability goals because production waste can be mechanically recycled and returned to the manufacturing process.

Typical applications include:

• Custom sealing profiles
• Industrial equipment
• Building and façade seals
• Window and door systems
• Public and railway transport interiors
• Electrical enclosures
• Machinery and equipment

TPE is often selected when flexibility, manufacturing efficiency, and consistent quality are important requirements.

Read more: EPDM vs. TPE – Miten materiaalit eroavat toisistaan? 

When TPU is the right choice

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is known for its excellent abrasion resistance and mechanical strength. It performs well in applications where components are subject to repeated wear, friction, or mechanical loading.

Typical applications include:

• Rollers and wheels
• Wear strips
• Protective components
• Industrial machinery
• Material handling equipment

Compared with EPDM and many TPE grades, TPU generally provides better wear resistance but is not usually the first choice for long-term outdoor sealing applications.

Read more: TPE vs. TPU – What’s the difference? – V.A.V. Group 

Recyclability and carbon emissions

EPDM’s big downside compared to other alternatives is that it is a thermoset material, meaning that once it undergoes vulcanization (curing), it cannot be melted or reshaped. TPEs, by contrast, are thermoplastic, which means they can be melted and reprocessed multiple times without significantly degrading their performance. This makes TPE much more material-efficient.

On our website, you will find an EPDM to TPE carbon emission calculator. It will give you an estimate of how your product’s carbon emissions would change if you decided to make the switch from EPDM to TPE. In cases where the profile’s use case does not prevent it, we recommend choosing a greener alternative.

Which material should you choose?

There is rarely one material that performs best in every situation. The right choice depends on the operating environment and the priorities of the application.

As a general guideline:

• Choose EPDM for outdoor applications requiring excellent weather, UV, and ozone resistance.
• Choose TPE for versatile custom profiles, efficient manufacturing, and applications where mechanical recyclability is an advantage.
• Choose TPU for components exposed to heavy wear, abrasion, and repeated mechanical stress.

Material selection should also consider operating temperatures, chemicals, certification requirements, manufacturing methods, and expected service life.

Material is only part of the solution

The performance of a sealing solution depends on more than the material alone. Profile geometry, tolerances, installation method, and manufacturing quality all influence the final result.

At V.A.V. Group, we help customers select both the right material and the right profile design for their application. Whether the project involves construction, rail, marine, or industrial equipment, choosing the appropriate combination early in the design process can help reduce maintenance needs and improve long-term performance.

If you are unsure whether EPDM, TPE, or TPU is the best fit for your application, get in touch! We’ll be happy to discuss your requirements.

Artikkeli EPDM, TPU, or TPE?  julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

When people talk about “rubber profiles” in the context of sealing profiles, they often mean the family of flexible materials such as EPDM, NBR, or silicone. They may look similar at first, but their properties and best use cases can differ significantly. Understanding those differences helps ensure your profiles last longer and perform better.

Silicone is technically a type of synthetic rubber, with a structure that differs from conventional organic and synthetic (black) rubbers. Its polymer backbone is made up of silicon and oxygen, with carbon and hydrogen present in the organic groups attached to it. This distinctive structure gives silicone rubber a combination of properties that sets it apart from many other elastomers.

That’s why you’ll often see the term silicone rubber. It refers to silicone in its elastomeric form, as opposed to silicone oils or resins used in other applications. Silicone rubber remains flexible across a wide temperature range and has excellent resistance to UV, ozone, weathering and ageing. Compared with many conventional rubbers, it can retain its flexibility and performance for a long service life.

Performance That Withstands the Extremes

What makes silicone rubber stand out is its stability. It stays elastic at temperatures from around –80 °C up to +300 °C, tolerating even higher peaks for short periods. UV light, ozone, and moisture have little effect on it, which is why silicone profiles are often chosen for outdoor, hygienic, or high-temperature applications.

Silicone is also the material of choice when fire safety is non-negotiable. Our own Fire X silicone rubber profiles are designed for demanding environments such as public transport and industrial equipment, where certified flame resistance and long-term performance are critical.

Traditional rubbers such as EPDM perform well in many standard sealing and insulation tasks, but they have their limits. EPDM, for example, can handle weather exposure but not high heat. In other words, each material has its place; the choice depends on what kind of environment the profile must endure.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Application

If your product needs to withstand constant temperature fluctuations, outdoor exposure, or stringent hygiene standards, silicone rubber is often the safest bet. It offers exceptional durability, a clean surface, and excellent color stability qualities that make it popular in sectors ranging from construction and lighting to medical and food technology.

For projects where cost-efficiency or fuel resistance matter more than extreme temperature tolerance, other rubbers or thermoplastic elastomers can be the smarter choice. Materials such as TPE and TPV combine the flexibility of rubber with the processing advantages and recyclability of plastics, making them well-suited for modern, sustainable product design.

High-Performance Profiles, Made to Measure

At V.A.V. Group, we manufacture silicone rubber, TPE, and TPV profiles tailored precisely to your needs, from small production batches to medium-scale deliveries. Our materials are chosen for their reliability, long life, and consistent quality, ensuring that every profile we deliver is ready to perform from day one.

Looking for the right material for your next project? Our experts are happy to help you find the ideal balance between performance, durability, and cost.

Artikkeli Silicone Rubber and Rubber Materials julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

While we are widely recognized for our high-quality silicone and TPE/TPV profiles, V.A.V. Group also manufactures a range of assembly products tailored for demanding industrial applications in our new and improved facilities. One of the standout solutions is the pressure profile: a robust, custom-made component that combines V.A.V. Group’s own silicone profiles with precision-engineered metal valves.

These assemblies are used across a variety of industries, e.g., in pulp and paper processing, where they serve as essential components in washers. Pressure profiles play a key role in waterproofing compartmental areas in specialized vehicles and other niche applications that demand both durability and airtight sealing.

 Pressure profiles in hatches and openings create a true liquid-proof seal. Air-to-air mixing is minimized.

Engineered for Extreme Conditions

To meet the intense demands of the pulp and paper industry, our pressure profiles undergo additional processing steps that enhance their resistance to chemical and mechanical stress. The silicone material is engineered to endure aggressive bleaching agents, acidic and alkaline solutions, and the rapid rotational forces inside washing drums.

Each pressure profile is manufactured to match the specific dimensions of the washer drum, ensuring a perfect fit. Once formed, the silicone profiles are connected to metal valves that channel air into the system. This airflow activates the pressure profiles, enabling them to seal tightly and reliably under harsh operating conditions.

Centering boxes on a conveyor belt with specialized pressure profiles

Understanding how materials behave over time is just as critical as their immediate performance. That’s why we place strong emphasis on certifications and long-term material testing. By understanding how silicone deteriorates in real-world conditions, we can provide reliable estimates on product lifespan, essential information for maintenance planning in industrial settings.

In many facilities, there are dedicated annual shutdowns for servicing key equipment. Knowing the expected service life of pressure profiles helps maintenance teams schedule replacements during these limited windows, reducing the risk of unplanned downtime and ensuring continuous, reliable operation.

1. No compression

2. Compression, hollow profile

3. Compression, pressure profile

Custom Design and Collaboration

Every pressure profile project at V.A.V. Group is a collaboration. Our design and engineering teams work closely with customers to tailor each solution to the precise requirements of their application. Whether it’s an adjustment to material hardness, profile geometry, or valve integration, the goal is always the same: long-lasting performance and uncompromising reliability. 

Thanks to our in-house design capabilities and fast prototyping tools, we’re able to move quickly from concept to first samples.

Curious about how we turn ideas into real products? Read more about our custom tooling and rapid prototyping process.

Artikkeli Assembly Services: Pressure profiles julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

Material Properties

To determine the right material for a specific application, it’s important to start by understanding its intrinsic material properties. How a material behaves under stress, exposure to different temperatures, and how it interacts with other substances will play an important role in determining how a profile will perform over time.

TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)

TPE represents a versatile class of materials that blends the elastic properties of rubber with the processing benefits of thermoplastics. TPE profiles are soft to the touch, highly flexible, and capable of returning to their original shape after compression. These qualities are essential in applications requiring a tight, adaptive seal.

Modern TPEs offer improved chemical resistance and UV stability, closing the gap between rubber and plastic materials. Some TPE grades are engineered for higher hardness and dimensional stability, making them suitable for structural applications that previously defaulted to PVC. Additionally, TPE materials are often recyclable and can be reprocessed with minimal material degradation, making them a more sustainable option.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer widely used across the construction and manufacturing industries. It is characterized by its rigidity and chemical stability, and offers reliable resistance to oils, acids, and other aggressive substances. One of its standout features is its inherent strength, which allows it to retain shape and structure even under mechanical stress. PVC performs well in outdoor conditions thanks to its UV resistance, making it a reliable option for exposed installations.

Furthermore, PVC is a cost-effective solution for high-volume projects, thanks to its availability and well-established production processes. However, its rigidity can become a drawback in dynamic or high-flex applications where elasticity and shape recovery are needed.

Applications

Now that we understand the base properties, the next key factor is application-specific suitability. PVC and TPE are both used in sealing and profile applications, but they excel in different environments and roles depending on mechanical demands, environmental exposure, and assembly methods.

PVC Seals and Profiles

PVC seals and profiles are primarily used in structural roles. Their rigidity makes them ideal for window and door frames, cladding, trunking, and pipe profiles, which are all areas where maintaining dimensional stability over time is critical. In building applications, PVC is commonly extruded into profiles that integrate into larger systems, such as glazing frames or exterior wall systems.

In transportation and heavy equipment manufacturing, PVC is used in semi-structural protective profiles, thanks to its resistance to corrosion and wear. Its long-standing presence in these industries also means PVC profiles are widely available and supported by a large network of tooling and processing expertise.

TPE Seals and Profiles

TPE profiles shine in applications that require frequent movement, thermal cycling, or dynamic sealing. These include automotive door seals, HVAC gaskets, vibration-damping elements, and components in consumer products. Their softness also allows TPE seals to form tight, adaptive contact with surfaces of varying geometries, making them ideal in applications where tolerances are inconsistent or subject to change, such as thermal expansion.

In building applications, TPE profiles are increasingly used in fenestration systems for flexible glazing gaskets and thermal break elements. Their acoustic and impact-absorbing properties also make them valuable in interior finishing systems and modular components. Unlike PVC, TPE can be co-extruded with other materials (like hard plastics), enabling multi-material profiles in a single production run.

Performance Considerations

Beyond physical properties and use cases, other performance metrics such as temperature resistance, sustainability, and lifecycle costs play an important role in material selection. Understanding how PVC and TPE behave under real-world conditions will help clarify which material is actually better suited for a which application.

Temperature Resistance

PVC maintains structural integrity at moderately high temperatures and offers decent resistance to heat deformation. However, it tends to become brittle in the lower temperatures, making it less suitable for applications exposed to sub-zero environments.

TPE, on the other hand, retains flexibility and elasticity in cold conditions and can also be formulated for high-temperature tolerance. Specialized TPE compounds can withstand operating temperatures above 120°C, and fire-retardant versions are available for critical safety applications in transportation, construction, and electrical housing.

Environmental Impact

Environmental performance is an important consideration in materials selection. TPE stands out as a recyclable material that can often be processed using energy-efficient methods, reducing overall environmental impact. In addition, many TPEs are produced without plasticizers, heavy metals, or halogenated compounds, making them safer to handle and dispose of than many other profile materials.

PVC’s environmental profile is more complex. While it is durable and long-lasting, its production and disposal raise concerns due to the use of chlorine and the generation of toxic byproducts like dioxins. Recycling of PVC is possible but limited by additives and cross-contamination risks. For companies focused on sustainability, TPE often represents a forward-looking alternative.

Cost Considerations

PVC’s widespread availability and long production history give it a cost advantage in many applications. It’s often the go-to solution for projects where budget constraints are strict and mechanical performance is not heavily demanding.

TPE, while generally more expensive up front, offers value over time. Its superior performance in dynamic and harsh conditions can reduce maintenance costs, extend service life, and support circular manufacturing through recycling. When total lifecycle costs are considered, including disposal and sustainability goals. TPE may offer better long-term value, especially in high-performance applications.

Should you switch over to TPE?

PVC and TPE are both versatile and reliable materials, each offering clear benefits depending on the intended use: 

• PVC excels in rigid, structural applications where cost efficiency and durability are the primary drivers 
• TPE provides advanced sealing performance, dynamic flexibility, and a more favorable environmental footprint, especially in modern engineered grades that rival the strength and stiffness of traditional plastics

For construction and industrial projects, the decision between PVC and TPE should be made based on application-specific requirements, environmental conditions, sustainability targets, and total lifecycle cost. With today’s advanced TPE compounds, replacing PVC even in traditionally rigid applications is increasingly possible, offering designers and engineers new flexibility in their material choices.

Whether you’re building resilient infrastructure, sealing sensitive machinery, or developing eco-conscious products, understanding the trade-offs between PVC and TPE empowers you to select the right profile material for lasting performance.

Our solutions

Our TPE profiles are widely used in the construction industry due to their insulating abilities, durability, and high quality. Of course, windows and doors are the most apparent components where our profiles can be found, but many things, such as timber frames, are still hidden from the naked eye. You can read more about our customer case with Honkarakenne here.

TPE is a very versatile material, which is why it is also used in heavy industry. The pulp and paper industry requires chemical and tear resistance, which are TPE’s strong suits. We have several ways to make TPE profiles into frames, rings, hoops, and other forms that can be easily fitted into the heavy machinery used in the chemical industry. To learn more about manufacturing frames and rings, read this article.

Furthermore, we have several years of experience manufacturing regular and fireproof seals for the railway and maritime industries. Even though the profiles may look the same, their properties vary depending on the circumstances they will have to endure. One of our most recent transportation industry customer cases comes from the maritime industry, as we helped the largest cruise ship in the world, The Icon of the Seas, set sail on time. Read the full article here.

As we mentioned above, TPE is a more ecological alternative for PVC, but we have taken this even further by developing Bio-TPE profiles. Like regular TPE, Bio-TPE is fully recyclable, non-toxic, and has the same properties as regular TPE. 65% of the fossil raw materials have been replaced with bio-based oils, which makes it a much more ecological option.

Are you looking for a PVC replacement?

You are not alone. Many of our clients are looking for environmentally friendly alternatives for PVC profiles, and we are happy to help. Our experts can assist you in finding the right solution for your industry. Contact our sales team to start your journey towards a more sustainable future!

Artikkeli PVC vs. TPE profiles julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

Tuotanto ja toimitukset jatkuvat normaalisti koko kesän ajan, paitsi viikolla 29 (13.–19.7.), jolloin toimituksemme ovat tauolla. Suosittelemme tekemään tilaukset hyvissä ajoin, jotta varmistat, että tilauksesi ovat ajallaan perillä.

Tarvitsetko profiileja tai tiivisteitä tuleviin projekteihin? Olipa kyseessä uusi hanke tai varaston täydennys, autamme sinua mielellämme.

Jos sinulla on kysymyksiä kesän toimitusaikatauluista, ota yhteyttä V.A.V. Groupiin ajoissa!

Artikkeli Toimitustauko Heinäkuussa julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

“At some point, I felt like my previous job was no longer the kind of job where I could do things the way that would really serve the clients. During my maternity leave, I started thinking about what to do next, and I decided to study something completely new.”

A new direction in engineering

The change in field took some careful consideration for Johanna. She considered future job opportunities and ended up studying mechanical engineering at Lapland University of Applied Sciences:

“Mechanical engineering felt right, especially because it also allows you to work with your hands. I like designing, but also the fact that I get to implement and test things myself.”

During her studies, her focus shifted further to plastics technology, which she studied as a cross-curricular subject at Satakunta UAS. This eventually led to her applying for an internship at companies in the field, and is how she eventually landed at our doorstep.

From an internship to a permanent role

Johanna Lonnakko started at V.A.V. Group as an intern on a project related to new raw materials. Project work, thesis, and production tasks ran parallel for a long time. In her thesis, Johanna developed a tool for the TPE line that made it possible to streamline product manufacturing and reduce errors. The solution proved so effective that it was decided to keep the work as internal company information!

As graduation approached and a position opened up at the company, the transition to a permanent role came naturally.

A diverse role keeps the work interesting

Johanna’s workdays vary greatly. The work includes design, 3D printing, production work, quality assurance, and material development.

“Sometimes I can spend weeks on the computer designing and making reports, and other times I’m in production developing and testing new solutions. That variety is what makes the work meaningful.”

According to Johanna, one of the best parts of the job is the opportunity to take ideas from start to finish yourself:

“In many larger companies, the designer designs, and someone else creates the product. Here, you get to make, test, and develop things yourself until they are finished. It teaches you the process in a completely different way.”

Striking a balance between work and home life

The work community gets a special mention from Johanna. In a small organization, cooperation is smooth, and help is easy to get.

“It’s easy to be here, easy to come to work in the mornings. You don’t have to play any role; you can just be yourself. Everyone knows each other, and you can get help quickly since you always know who to ask.”

In contrast to work, her everyday life revolves around her family. Her two young children waiting at home make sure that the evenings are never boring. In addition, her free time includes agility practice with her dog, motorcycle riding, and 3D printing – a hobby that found its way home from her studies.

“I got into 3D printing when I was a student. Nowadays, the plastic printer is sometimes almost like a television for the kids, it’s fun for them to watch while the printing is in progress, especially if I’m printing something for them”, she laughs.

Welcome, Johanna, to your new position at V.A.V. Group!

Artikkeli Meet Johanna Lonnakko: Design & Quality Engineer julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

As regulations increase and require environmental data at the project level, our customers need verified product information to complete their calculations. To provide our customers with the right documentation, we at V.A.V. Group turned to Reforest Finland Oy for help.

Sustainability requirements are going through changes

According to Atte Borgenström, CEO of sustainability consultancy Reforest, the change in mindset over the past few years has been dramatic.

“We’ve worked with sustainability reporting and carbon footprint calculations for years – carbon footprint reporting has been the core of our work for a long time. But regulation is tightening fast, and requirements keep growing. As a result, companies now need much broader solutions than before.”

Reforest, founded in 2020 and located in Tampere, Finland, supports companies with sustainability reporting, carbon footprint calculations, EPDs, and other environmental assessments. While interest started off slowly, in recent years the demand has accelerated rapidly.

“The number of inquiries has increased massively. Around 2021, sustainability was still often seen as something close to charity. Today, decision-makers understand that it’s an essential part of doing business.”

A combination of EU regulation and market pressure drives this shift. Larger companies increasingly require verified environmental data from their suppliers, which means smaller and mid-sized manufacturers must also be able to provide credible, standardized information.

What the EPD covers

An EPD is based on a life cycle assessment (LCA) of a product. It usually applies to construction products, where environmental performance plays a key role in project-level calculations.

“An EPD shows the environmental impacts of a product across its entire life cycle – from manufacturing and use to end of life. That includes CO₂ emissions and other greenhouse gases, but also impacts on water and ecosystems,” Borgenström explains.

The result is a detailed document containing a large amount of quantified data. While this may seem complex at first glance, its value becomes clear at the project level.

“A building consists of many different components. By combining EPDs, you can calculate the total carbon footprint and environmental impact of the entire building.”

Because EPDs follow harmonized standards and are third-party verified, the data is consistent and comparable, something that unverified calculations cannot guarantee.

Why this matters to us

One of the key strengths of EPDs is that they are always produced according to the same rules. All assumptions must be justified, and nothing essential can be left out.

Once the calculations are complete, the EPD is reviewed by an accredited verifier, who checks the methodology, data sources, and results before approving publication. Verified EPDs are public documents and can be found in databases such as EPD Hub.

A verified EPD is valid for 5 years, provided the product’s composition does not undergo significant changes. If production methods, materials, or energy sources change during that time, updating the EPD can help reflect improved environmental performance.

This is the first EPD calculation for V.A.V. Group and, as such, a starting point for continuous evaluation and improvement of materials, production, and recycling processes to achieve even better results in the future.     

What if a product has no EPD?

If a product does not have its own EPD, generic emission factors are typically used in building or project calculations. While this allows projects to move forward, the results are often less accurate and frequently less favorable than product-specific data.

“For manufacturers operating in Finland and other regions with energy-efficient production and low-carbon electricity, this can be a missed opportunity,” Borgenström notes.

EPDs make it possible to demonstrate real differences between products, especially when compared to alternatives manufactured under very different environmental conditions.

Ask our team for more details!

Reforest carried out the EPD calculations for V.A.V. Group’s products, supporting the process from life cycle assessment to third-party verification. For broad product portfolios, EPDs can often be created for product groups within defined variation ranges, making them a practical and scalable solution even when individual product variants are numerous.

You can now find EPD verifications for our silicone profiles and our TPE sealing profiles on EPD-Hub or by following the links below!

As sustainability expectations continue to evolve, EPDs offer a stable foundation grounded in data, verified by third parties, and increasingly essential for doing business in construction and industry. We at V.A.V. Group will continue to do our part in providing up-to-date documentation on our materials and products.

Artikkeli V.A.V. Group Shares EPD Verifications julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

What is a profile extrusion die?
A profile extrusion die is a custom-made tool used to shape materials, such as silicone and TPE, into a continuous cross-sectional profile.
 As the material is pushed through the die, it takes on the exact shape of the opening, allowing for the precise production of items like seals, gaskets, and other industrial profiles. 
Silicone profile is then additionally run through an oven so that it will retain its shape.

Meet the brief

One of the key advantages of V.A.V. Group’s process is the seamless integration of in-house metal 3D printing with design expertise. With our engineer Arttu Juntunen at the helm, new tool concepts can be rapidly turned into physical prototypes using the company’s metal 3D printer. This not only accelerates development but also allows for immediate hands-on evaluation of form and fit before any metal tooling is made.

The first step is always understanding the customer’s need for a certain profile. Together with our sales team and the customer’s representative, we gather all the necessary information to see how we could find the right solution. Careful planning is crucial, as that is how we find the right manufacturing process for the profile and calculate the costs of manufacturing. Once the project has been green-lighted, the process itself is relatively swift: within two weeks, we will have designed and 3D-printed the tool and will be ready to make your prototype. Usually, it only takes minor tweaks here and there by hand to reach the final product.

V.A.V. Group works closely with its customers to avoid mistakes. The customer usually knows the basic needs of their new profile – the shape, material, heat resistance, etc. Most customers deliver all the information along with images, blueprints, and measurements, but if those are unavailable or the customer is placing their first order, our salespeople are experts in their field and will help the customer with the specifications.

Custom is the new standard

By printing and testing the extrusion of prototypes on-site, we can significantly reduce sample time and optimize the tools before moving on to full-scale manufacturing. Depending on the tool, the printing will take from one to three days. This streamlined approach shortens the feedback loop and ensures that by the time a tool reaches the production line, it’s already well-refined, minimizing downtime and improving overall production run time. The result is a faster path from concept to tested profile, giving customers quicker access to tailored solutions.

V.A.V. Group has used a 3D printer since 2017, but our custom extrusion dies go back a long way. EDM wire cutters are still relatively common, but the efficiency of a 3D printer is unbeatable. 3D printing is not always faster than EDM wire cutting, but it’s more efficient, as the printer can handle several extrusion dies and does most of the work. All we need to do is make tiny adjustments by hand, and often not even that. The printer is so much more accurate than any welder or cutter. The number of custom tools we have created is in the thousands by now, given that we design around 50 custom tools per year.

Aside from a few staple profiles, every profile is unique and requires its own tool. Even though the term “custom-made” is linked to a higher price tag in consumers’ minds, it’s the complete opposite in B2B solutions. It’s either a custom extrusion die or altering common profiles. By running the quick math, one custom tool that is technically eternal will make every inch of the profile cheaper the more you produce.

How to get your custom profiles

V.A.V. Group has a customer-oriented and flexible approach to profile manufacturing. Learn how to get your bespoke profiles in four simple steps.

Learn more

Artikkeli Crafting Innovation: 3D Printing for Quick & Custom Solutions julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

Greenledin ratkaisut on suunniteltu elinkaari edellä. Pitkä käyttöikä, huollettavuus, päivitettävyys ja uudelleenkäytettävyys ovat tuotteiden keskeisiä ominaisuuksia, jotka tukevat kestävää ja vastuullista valaistusta. Energiatehokkuus ja älykkäät ohjausratkaisut auttavat asiakkaita pienentämään hiilijalanjälkeään ja energiankulutustaan merkittävästi. Greenled ei tarjoa vain valaisimia, vaan kokonaisvaltaisia ratkaisuja, jotka vastaavat nykypäivän ja tulevaisuuden valaistustarpeisiin – puhtaammin, viisaammin ja pitkäjänteisemmin.

“Meiltä hoituu erityisesti isoimmat ja haastavimmat saneeraukset, esimerkiksi elintarvike- tai raskasteollisuuteen. Asennukset tehdään yöaikaan, asiakkaan tuotanto edellä. Näin homma pysyy myös turvallisena niin asiakkaille kuin meidän asentajillekin.” – Niko Kaivosoja, Asiakkuuspäällikkö, Greenled

Yhteiset juuret Pohjois-Suomessa

Greenled ja V.A.V. Group jakavat paitsi kotipaikan Pohjois-Suomessa, myös saman arvopohjan, jossa korostuuu kotimaisuus, laatu ja kestävä kehitys. Yhteistyö onkin saanut konkreettisen muodon molempien tuotannossa: Greenled oli mukana tehtaamme laajennuksessa ja uudistamisessa toimittamalla ja asentamalla uudet, energiatehokkaat LED-valaisimet koko tuotantotilaan ja toimistotiloihin. Valoa tuovan kumppanin lisäksi me puolestaan valmistamme tiivisteitä Greenledin valaisimiin. Ydinosaamisellamme olemme voineet näin täydentää toisiamme. 

“Meille on tärkeää että valaisimien komponentit tulevat Suomesta. Kun komponentit on luotettavat, me voimme taata laadukkaat tuotteet pitkällä takuuajalla.” – Niko Kaivosoja

Yritystemme välinen yhteistyö on luontevaa: kumpikin panostaa kotimaiseen tuotantoon, tekniseen laatuun ja pitkäikäisiin ratkaisuihin, jotka palvelevat asiakkaita ja ympäristöä. Jaetut arvot ja yhteinen maaperä tekevät Greenledin ja V.A.V. Groupin kumppanuudesta kestävää.

V.A.V. Groupin tuotantotilojen uudistus 

Valaistuksen uusiminen oli tärkeä osa V.A.V. Groupin tilojen saneerauksessa. Greenledin järjestelmä mahdollistaa valotehon säätämisen tarvetta vastaavaksi eri osiin hallia ja toimistoja. Näin jokaiselle työpisteelle saatiin oikeanlainen valaistus, eikä kenenkään tarvitse kärsiä liian vähäisestä tai liian kirkkaasta valaistuksesta.

 “Vanhoja loisteputkia pimeni säännöllisesti ja niiden vaihto 6 metrin korkeuteen ei tapahdu ihan helposti.” – Pasi Vilén, Toimitusjohtaja, V.A.V. Group

Tämä oli merkittävä parannus aikaisempaan loisteputkivalaistukseen verrattuna. LED-valaistus on myös kustannustehokas sekä kulutetun energian että huoltotarpeen osalta. 

“Vanhassa hallissamme on ollut Greenledin valaistus jo yli viisi vuotta ja sinä aikana ei ole tarvinnut vaihtaa yhtään lamppua.” – Pasi Vilén

Loisteputkista ledeihin siirtyminen johti kaiken lisäksi merkittävään energiansäästöön. Myös uusi ohjaus tekee osansa energiatehokkuuden parantamiseksi:

“Uusi ohjaus säästää myös energiaa. Tehdas on jaettu sektoreihin, ja jos yhdellä sektorilla ei ole ihmisiä, sen sektorin valot himmenevät pikkuhiljaa 20 % prosenttiin.” – Niko Kaivosoja

Uusissa ledeissä on otettu huomioon valojen luonnollinen hiipuma. Kun valaisimet asennetaan, niiden kirkkaus asetetaan noin 80 %:n, ja kun vuosien saatossa LEDin teho hiipuu, kirkautta voi korottaa ja hiipumaa näin kompensoida ilman, että valoja tarvitsee vaihtaa turhaan.

LED valaisimien kestävyyteen vaikuttaa eniten lämpötila, sillä korkeat lämpötilat voivat heikentää valaistuksen tehokkuutta. Samoihin aikoihin toteutettu ilmastointisaneeraus varmisti sen, että olosuhteet tehtaallamme ovat nyt hyvät myös uudelle valaistukselle, joten ne tulevat helposti kestämään jopa 150 tuhatta tuntia. Ero entiseen ei ole muuta kuin positiivinen:

“Valaistuksen päivitys ja uusiminen V.A.V. Groupille meni Greenledin ansiosta erittäin sujuvasti, ja uusi LED-valaistus paransi työskentelyolosuhteita ja työturvallisuutta huomattavasti.” – Pasi Vilén

V.A.V. Group Greenledin kotimaisena komponenttitoimittajana

V.A.V. Group on toimittanut komponentteja Greenledin valaisimiin jo vuodesta 2018 alkaen. Valaisimien elinkaari on keskeinen osa niiden laatua, joten myös valaisimen tiivisteeltä vaaditaan kestävyyttä. Jos yksikin valaisimen komponentti haurastuu ennen muita, koko valaisimen kestävyys kompromisoituu.

Laadun takaamiseksi Greenledin valaisimet tiivistetään V.A.V. Groupin valmistamalla silikoniprofiililla. Silikoni on materiaalina monipuolinen, sillä sitä voi mukauttaa kestämään erinomaisesti esimerkiksi lämpötilan muutoksia, kosteutta, UV-säteilyä tai erilaisia kemikaaleja. Oikea silikonivalinta vaikuttaa merkittävästi etenkin ulkona käytettäviin valaisimiin, jotka Suomen sääoloissa saavat sietää aikamoista myllytystä vuodenaikojen vaihtuessa. 

Jo vuosia kestänyt asiakkuus on monen tekijän summa. Greenledille tärkeän kotimaisuuden lisäksi V.A.V. Groupin nopea toimitus sopii kiireisen Greenledin tarpeisiin. Myös käytännön tekijät vaikuttavat: me tarjoamme räätälöityjä ratkaisuja asiakkaan tarpeen mukaan. Greenledille tämä tarkoittaa sitä, että teemme profiilista valmiiksi valaisimiin istuvia kehiä, joihin kiinnitetty teippi tekee profiilin asennuksesta Greenledin päässä nopeaa.

Tiiviillä yhteistyöllä valoisampaan tulevaisuuteen

Yhteistyö Greenledin ja V.A.V. Groupin välillä on esimerkki siitä, mitä tapahtuu, kun kaksi kotimaista asiantuntijayritystä yhdistävät osaamisensa yhteisen päämäärän hyväksi. Haluamme panostaa laatuun, kestävyyteen ja kehitykseen – ei vain puheissa, vaan käytännön ratkaisuissa, jotka kestävät ajan hammasta. Yhdessä rakennamme paitsi tehokkaammin valaistuja ja tiivistettyjä tuotteita, myös vastuullisempaa ja elinvoimaisempaa suomalaista teollisuutta. Tämä kumppanuus ei ole vain järkivalinta – se on luonnollinen jatkumo yhteisille juurille ja jaetulle visiolle kestävästä tulevaisuudesta.

Artikkeli Asiakastarina: Greenled julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

Halton Marine, Energy, and Infrastructure (MEI), also known as Halton Marine, is part of the global Halton Group and develops advanced ventilation and safety solutions for demanding environments, ranging from offshore platforms to cruise ships. At the Lahti factory in Finland, components are transformed into final products that must meet strict international safety standards. One key supplier has played an important role in this process: V.A.V. Group.

Looking for a Fast, Flexible, and Reliable Supplier

Purchasing Manager Merja Kauto recalls that the collaboration began a decade ago when Halton Marine needed seals cut to exact lengths. “We are a project-based company, and we were looking for a supplier who is flexible, fast, and reliable. That’s when V.A.V. Group became our partner,” she explains.

Today, V.A.V. Group delivers seals for a wide range of Halton products, particularly fire dampers used on ships. These components play a vital role in passenger safety. In the event of a fire, the dampers close to prevent flames and toxic gases from spreading to other parts of the vessel. Even though seals may seem like a small element in the system, their function is critical.

Customer-Centric Service

Halton’s requirements are strict for a reason: seals must meet stringent safety certifications, withstand explosive atmospheres, and comply with ISO standards. According to Kauto, V.A.V. Group delivers consistently on all fronts.

She highlights the personal service provided by V.A.V. Group’s sales manager, Mia Ahlgren: “Whenever I call, I get an answer—or a call back almost immediately. She understands that our customers in Asia, for example, cannot wait until the next day. Quick responses are essential.”

This responsiveness extends beyond communication. V.A.V. Group agreed to cut seals to precise measurements for different damper blades, a service that makes installation on Halton’s manufacturing floor faster and easier. Importantly, the same level of attention is given regardless of order size, whether Kauto orders two pieces or twenty thousand.

Quality, Price, and Reliability

For Halton, the decision to continue working with V.A.V. Group is clear. The “holy trinity” of quality, lead time, and price is consistently met. While seals are not the most expensive components in their products, their reliability is non-negotiable.

Kauto also notes the value of transparent communication. “Problems do and will happen– whether it’s availability issues or quality concerns. But V.A.V. Group always informs us in advance. That honesty makes it possible for us to prepare and for our own customers to prepare. It’s not easy to deliver difficult news, but it shows real partnership.”

Beyond Transactions: Building Trust

The relationship goes beyond email exchanges. Meetings at trade fairs and factory visits have built trust and opened doors for joint development discussions. According to Kauto, this personal connection makes it easier to ask questions and explore potential solutions together.

Halton also values the supplier’s commitment to sustainability and certifications. Documentation, audits, and continuous improvement efforts demonstrate that V.A.V. Group is aligned with the growing importance of environmental responsibility in the industry.

For Halton Marine, safety and reliability are the cornerstones of its products, and V.A.V. Group’s seals help ensure both. A decade of collaboration has proven the value of a partner who delivers quality, flexibility, and transparent service. As Kauto summarizes, the reason for loyalty is simple: “When quality, delivery time, and price are all in balance, there’s no reason to change suppliers.”

Artikkeli Customer Story: Halton julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.