A Passion for Success: How NARGESA Is Rethinking Production with ABUS Crane Solutions
In a world where precision and efficiency determine a company's success, PRADA NARGESA S.L. impressively demonstrates how the spirit of innovation and experience can lead to a strong connector. The family-run company from the Girona region near Barcelona is not only a pioneer in the manufacture of metalworking machinery, but also an example of how well thought-out investments in modern crane technology can optimize production processes.
50 years of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation
Since its foundation in 1970, NARGESA has represented quality "Made in Spain." Today, NARGESA and its team of 45 employees manufacture an impressive range of machines in a 10,000-square-meter facility, including bending machines, shears, forging hammers, and hydraulic presses. Everything — from design to final assembly — is manufactured in-house. This high level of in-house production is one of the keys to the company's global success. To date, more than 16,800 machines have been sold in over 130 countries. "Our philosophy is based on quality and customer proximity - values that have enabled us to grow and develop year after year until we have reached our current level," explains David Prada, Managing Director and son of the company founder.
However, this philosophy presents challenges, particularly when it comes to lifting, moving, and assembling heavy machine parts.
The bottleneck in production - heavy loads and demanding spatial conditions
In a production environment where components sometimes weigh several hundred kilograms and must be moved, conventional solutions quickly reach their limits. As order volumes grew and processes changed, it became clear that a professional, flexible crane solution was needed—one that would make optimal use of the space, guarantee safety, and reduce employee strain.
“If we wanted to continue growing while improving quality and working conditions, it was clear to me that we needed a sophisticated crane system. That's what we found with ABUS,” says David Prada.
Managing Director David Prada from PRADA NARGESA S.L. looks back
In this video, David Prada from Nargesa explains how the company grew steadily over time, the challenges it faced, and how it found a solution:
The solution: ABUS crane technology, tailored specifically to NARGESA.
In close cooperation with ABUS Grúas, the Spanish subsidiary of ABUS Crane Systems, a comprehensive concept was developed that precisely meets the requirements of NARGESA's production process. Three crane types play a central role here:
Overhead traveling cranes — the transport arteries of production
In the main production areas, robust single- and double-girder overhead traveling cranes handle the heaviest components. They are not only strong, but also adaptable to the existing hall geometry.
Advantages:
- Safe lifting of large components
- Efficient transportation over long distances
- Optimal use of ceiling height
"These cranes are the backbone of our production. Without them, we would no longer be able to perform many work steps in-house," David Prada emphasizes.
Jib Cranes: Flexibility Where It's Needed
Wall-mounted slewing jib cranes provide an ergonomic and efficient work environment directly at assembly and welding stations. Their intuitive and precise operation increases productivity and reduces physical strain.
Advantages:
- Freedom of movement directly at the workplace
- Ideal for smaller loads and frequent lifting operations
- Space-saving wall or support mounting
Overhead Track Systems — Perfect for Confined Spaces
One notable feature is the ABUS suspended rail system, which provides maximum freedom of movement while requiring minimal space. David Prada recalls, "In our case, it allowed us to move workpieces weighing up to 250 kilograms with great ease, which is even easier than using an overhead traveling crane." This system proved to be the ideal solution, especially in areas with low ceilings or high machine inventory.
Advantages:
- Ceiling attachment leaves the floor free for other work processes
- Uncomplicated installation and modular expansion
- Smooth movement of loads in all directions
There has been a noticeable change in production.
Since implementing the ABUS cranes, everyday working life at NARGESA has changed significantly. Distances in production have become shorter, processes have become more efficient, and, above all, safety has improved. Employees feel that their workload has significantly decreased, and they are therefore more satisfied.
For David Prada, the project is a complete success.
“ABUS didn't just supply technology. They listened to us, thought along with us, and created solutions that were decisive in my decision-making process. Cranes are essential to preventing work stoppages, and investing in these systems makes good business sense. An employee who is unable to work causes high costs, and suitable aids improve safety and optimize production.”
Passion as a driving force
David Prada, who runs the company with his father, is convinced: "Your work will fill a large part of your life. The only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe in, and the only way to achieve that is to love what you do."
With this conviction and a clear view of the future, as well as ABUS as a strong partner, NARGESA is ideally positioned for further growth and new technological challenges.