The Business Area’s financial development was positively influenced by the successful performance of the companies acquired in 2004 (Bird Machine, NETZSCH Filtration, Fluidized Bed Drying Systems of VA TECH WABAG). All these companies developed above expectations and contributed positively to Order Intake, Sales, and Earnings during the reporting period. The main goal is to further expand these companies, thus giving the former owners the confidence that they will continue to thrive within the Andritz Group. As a result of this development and due to the processing of the high Order Backlog, Sales of the Business Area increased to 289.2 MEUR in 2005, up 32.7% compared to 2004.

EBITA, at 17.7MEUR, almost doubled compared to 2004 (9.9 MEUR). The EBITA margin improved significantly from 4.5% in 2004 to 6.1% in 2005.

By acquiring Lenser Filtration, a leading manufacturer of filter elements for solid/liquid separation in filter presses, the Business Area significantly strengthened its product range. Andritz is now able to offer tailor-made dewatering solutions also for filter presses to meet customer requirements.

In 2005, Andritz again confirmed its leading position as a supplier of centrifuges for sewage sludge treatment, reaching another record number of centrifuges sold.

Order Intake of the Business Area surged to 340.1 MEUR, increasing 69.5% compared to 2004. This was mainly due to both the solid development of the Order Intake for sewage sludge drying systems and the favorable performance of the newly acquired companies.