The Journey of Astrol
Franz Forster, Jürg Ramsauer, and Andy Stöckli founded Astrol in Switzerland in 1996 as a company dedicated to designing custom-built electronics. Astrol earned a reputation for designing and manufacturing electronic solutions for a diverse set of industries. By 2006, we had ventured into producing high-power semiconductor assemblies.
From designer of custom-build electronics to technology leader in pulsed power switches and solid-state circuit breakers
We design and produce electronic parts for technical high demanding industries such as medical, energy distribution and pulsed power applications. In our 27-year history we have developed from a designer of custom-built electronics to a technology leader in pulsed power switches and solid-state circuit breakers with a wide range of products and a world-wide customer base consisting of operating companies and research institutes. Our main focus lies on power switching in the medium voltage range, from optimized gate drive units to fully integrated solutions of up to 100kV.
In-house development and testing
Achievements
In 2010, Astrol’s commitment to quality was recognized with ISO 9001:2008 certification. The following year we took over the power assembly business from ABB Semiconductors. This solidified our position in the industry.
The year 2014 brought about a pivotal moment as Astrol relocated to Othmarsingen, Switzerland. This move not only showcased our growth but also our readiness to embrace new challenges.
In 2016, Astrol becomes a member of Sun.king Technology Group, an international group of companies in the field of power electronics, listed at Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code: 0580.hk). With this partnership our capabilities and global reach expanded.
Our dedication to innovation bore fruit in 2019 when Astrol’s Solid-State DC Breaker received a marine product type approval from DNV-GL. This achievement solidified our position as a leader in the field of solid-state circuit breakers.
The journey didn’t end there. In 2023, we acquired KWx, a Dutch company specializing in power electronics components. This strategic move not only expanded our product portfolio but also enriched their pool of expertise in the realm of advanced technology.
Today, Astrol stands for innovation and excellence. Our products are synonymous with reliability and performance. The story of Astrol is a story of perseverance and ingenuity. We will continue to pursuit excellence in shaping the future of customized electronics.
Timeline
Our main product groups
Quality, Safety & Responsibility
Quality, safety, and sustainable, responsible conduct are integral to our corporate philosophy and our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). We operate in full compliance with legal requirements, acting transparently and responsibly towards our employees, customers, partners, the environment, and society.
Quality & Certifications
High quality standards form the foundation of our products and services. Our quality management system is certified in accordance with ISO 9001, ensuring efficient processes, transparency, and continuous improvement. To support our CSR objectives and meet quality, environmental, and sustainability requirements, selected products and processes are audited and certified by independent, accredited organisations. This approach strengthens reliability, compliance, and trust across the entire value chain.
Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility
We are committed to responsible sourcing across our supply chain. Our Supplier Code of Conduct defines clear standards for ethical business practices, including requirements related to conflict minerals, cobalt, and substances of concern (SCIP). To ensure transparency, we use standardised reporting tools from the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI), including CMRT for 3TG minerals (tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold) and EMRT for materials such as cobalt, mica, lithium, and nickel. We comply with relevant legal and international regulations, including REACH and the EU RoHS Directive. Through EMRT, CMRT, and SVHC disclosures, we promote responsible sourcing and the sustainable use of natural resources.
Safety, Health & Responsibility
The safety, health, and well-being of our employees is our highest priority. We place equally strong emphasis on the safety of customers, suppliers, visitors, and contractors at our premises. By providing safe working conditions and promoting preventive, responsible behaviour, we create a secure working environment. At the same time, we ensure reliable and timely project execution through qualified employees and the use of modern, sustainable technologies. Our goal is to be a safe and responsible employer, acting in an environmentally sound manner and with transparency and integrity towards the public.
Certificates
ISO 9001:2015
Discover our distributor network
Our distributors
Our distributor network plays a crucial role in ensuring accessibility to our products, building strong partnerships and facilitating efficient delivery channels worldwide.
Astrolkwx: Specialists in maritime DC solutions
In 2023 we acquired the Dutch power electronics solution provider KWx, afterwards renamed Astrolkwx. Astrolkwx provides power electronics solutions and supplies A-brand PE components. Their electrotechnical knowledge, application knowledge and support from the brands they represent enable them to advise customers and provide the best possible solution for any specific application. In addition to standard catalogue products from top suppliers, their strength lies in co-creating customer specific solutions.
Their specialist knowledge of power electronics combined with going that extra mile for every customer sets them apart from the competition.
Astrolkwx
Astrolkwx specializes in advising and supplying power electronics components and assemblies for DC systems onboard ships. In addition to Astrol’s revolutionary solid-state DC breaker technology, Astrolkwx advises about and supplies (super) capacitors, isolated rectifiers, fuses, heatsinks, resistors and blocking diodes.
