Imenco Bauer Hydraulics: Celebrating 100 Years of Norwegian Engineering Heritage
This year, we proudly celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Imenco Bauer Hydraulics AS, a story that began in Haugesund in 1925, when the Bauer-Nilsen brothers established their workshop by the Karmsundet strait. From these modest beginnings, focused on pumps and hydraulic products for local industry, a company was born that would grow to become a pioneer in Norwegian hydraulic and mechanical engineering.
In the post-war years, Bauer invested in state-of-the-art machinery for grinding, honing, and hardening, technology that laid the foundation for becoming one of Norway’s leading suppliers of hydraulic solutions. As shipbuilding expanded, the company developed large hydraulic presses and forged key partnerships, including with Ankerløkken MacGregor in Gothenburg, setting new standards for the maritime industry.
When the oil age arrived, Bauer adapted once again. The company’s cylinders became an essential part of offshore cranes, winches, and vessels. This supported the rapid growth of Norway’s maritime and offshore sectors.
Through generations, Bauer remained a true family business driven by craftsmanship and innovation. After facing challenges during the 2008 financial crisis, the company underwent restructuring and in 2014 became part of the Imenco Group, relocating to Grinde. Here, Bauer’s heritage, expertise, and products continue to thrive within a global organization.
From a small local workshop to an international brand, Imenco Bauer Hydraulics stands today as a proud symbol of Norwegian industrial history, a century of ingenuity, resilience, and engineering excellence.
The anniversary event was carried out in one of the production halls of the Imenco Headquarters in Grinde, Norway on October 23rd, with about 125 invited guests representing employees, customers, suppliers and collaborating partners.
As part of the event, there was also a ceremony with the award of medals for long and faithful service to Alf Gunnar Helgesen, John Inge Strømmen and Bjørn Brynjelsen. All employees celebrated their 40 year anniversary of employment with Bauer and Imenco in 2024.
A video of the company history can be seen below:
