Robotic welding proved a success for Effee
Effee creates a 3D model of the area to be welded, such as a damaged gas pipe. The data captured by the 3D scan is sent to the welding robot, which carries out the repair with exceptional precision. This type of work would be dangerous for a person and would also require the industrial facility to shut down.
'When damage occurs, it is often in dangerous and inaccessible locations, so being able to send in a robot is a real advantage. A robot cannot be injured, and there are no health and safety risks. Now that we can send robots to carry out welding repairs, we can repair many types of damage that were previously out of reach, saving operators vast sums,' says Aleksander Rise Gallala, Business Development Officer at Effee.
Gallala adds that it also offers both economic and environmental benefits.
'You can save both substantial sums and the environment by repairing large, expensive equipment instead of making new equipment.'
Hear Gallala explain their solution and journey to success in this video:
The difference between life and death
Since 2017, the Ålesund-based company has grown significantly and now employs 150 people around the world. The growth has been rapid – in 2021, the company had just three employees. In 2024, its revenue rose sharply, from NOK 60 million in 2023 to NOK 160 million.
We have supported the company from startup to the present day with grants, loans and financial guarantees.
«Our support was crucial to Effee. We came on board early, enabling the company to keep growing at a stage when it was still too small to attract investment. It has made an enormous difference.»
Our Regional Director in Møre og Romsdal, Helge Gjerde, is impressed by what the Effee team has achieved in such a short time:
'We are impressed by Effee and proud to have supported them from the very beginning. They are a shining example of how technology and innovation can transform an entire industry, and a guiding light for Norwegian technology start-ups. Effee has shown how to make everyday work safer and more efficient while achieving strong growth.'
The company is now exploring opportunities in other countries.
'We are now expanding into international markets while continuing to develop our technology,' says Gallala.
Changed course
Effee's focus has expanded since the company was founded. When it launched eight years ago, the aim was to develop more efficient casting technology. In 2020, when Equinor was looking for a supplier of robotic welding and on-site heat treatment, the company changed direction. The casting technology was spun off as a separate venture, allowing Effee to focus exclusively on robotics.
By adapting their direction along the way and actively listening to the market, they have built a profitable company with ambitious growth plans. Gallala believes this is good advice for anyone trying to start a business:
- Listen to the market and the people you meet along the way. Like us, you may start out with one idea, only to be pulled in a completely different direction. You need to be ready to change course.