30 years of CRM Group in Ghent: three decades of innovation and industrial impact
This November 13th 2025, CRM Group celebrated the 30th anniversary of its Ghent site, a big step marking three decades of industrial research, metallurgy expertise and sustained collaboration with partners across Europe.
Since its launch in 1995, the Ghent platform has evolved into a leading centre for advanced material processing, combining alloy development, rolling technologies and pilot-scale manufacturing to support the needs of multiple industrial sectors.
A journey shaped by key milestones
The Ghent site was built step by step, through strategic investments that strengthened its technical capabilities and expanded its role within CRM Group.
1995 – Decision to launch (January) and start of activities (November)
2002 – Installation of a second rolling mill and a continuous rolling line
2006 – Move to the current building in Zwijnaarde
2008 – Creation of the Metal Processing Centre (MPC)
2015 – Commissioning of two melting furnaces
2024 – Installation of the PICKLEAN pickling line
These developments have progressively transformed CRM Ghent into a recognised hub for innovation in metallurgy and processing technologies.
A strong and diverse team
Behind these achievements lies a dynamic and highly skilled team.
Today, the Ghent site brings together 18 specialised employees, supported over the years by 34 former collaborators who helped shape the centre’s identity. Across three decades, the team has contributed to 17 patented innovations, earned five prestigious awards, and now operates more than 2,500 m² of laboratories and pilot facilities.
The combination of long-term experience, technical creativity and industrial know-how has been key to the site’s reputation.
Unique capabilities for advanced metallurgy
CRM Ghent is home to one of CRM Group’s most complete platforms for full processing of tailor-made alloys, from melting and rolling to finishing and inspection.
This includes the expertise developed through the ISYROLL programme, deployed in 11 industrial sites, as well as several developments related to edger rolls, forging dies for aeronautics and work-roll cooling technologies.
The integration of the PICKLEAN line further strengthens our ability to support projects that link metallurgy, surface treatment and advanced manufacturing, allowing partners to progress from concept to industrial demonstrators.
A network built on trust
Over 30 years, the Ghent site has forged close ties with a large community of industrial partners such as ArcelorMittal, Aurubis, Aperam, Tata Steel, Marichal Ketin, Umicore, Bekaert, NLMK Europe, Framatome, Vallourec and Primetals.
These collaborations, complemented by strong scientific links with OCAS, Ghent University and the Metal Processing Centre Ghent, have played a decisive role in driving innovation and delivering industrial impact.
Looking ahead: accelerating sustainable transformation
As the industry faces profound environmental and technological changes, the Ghent site is preparing the next phase of its development.
Future priorities will focus on:
Lean steels and increased scrap usage (MetConZero)
More efficient cooling and reduced industrial water consumption
Electrification of high-temperature processes
Digitalisation, automation and artificial intelligence
Heat recovery and improved energy efficiency
These directions reinforce CRM Group’s ambition to support the transition toward low-carbon, circular and high-performance industrial systems.
A milestone worth celebrating
The 30th anniversary of CRM Ghent is both a moment to honour past achievements and a starting point for new ambitions.
We warmly thank all colleagues, partners and guests who joined the celebration, and look forward to shaping the next chapters of innovation in Ghent, Flanders and beyond.
