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The origin of Sensor-Nite can be found in 1996 within the Heraeus Electro-Nite Group in Belgium. The main activity for this group, was and still is, sensors for the Metallurgical industry (for example liquid steel).
In 1996-1997 Hereaus Electro-Nite decided to extend this knowledge towards applications for the automotive industry. Based on the technical similarities regarding mutual measuring principles, a specific R&D/pilote production team was composed to design and develop future exhaust gas sensors.
In 1998 Hereaus Sensor-Nite acquired Roth Technic GmbH and the HQ was founded in Leuven (Belgium) as a separated activity from Electro-Nite. During the next years the temperature sensor concept evolved into a practical design and was stimulated by the urgent need for such a sensor in the automotive industry.
A considerable level of research and engineering went into the use of PTC components with high durability in severe mechanical & high temperature environments (above 600°C). This resulted in today's high temperature product-platform.
New developments, like the lean burning engines, required sensors with high accuracy & fast step response for NOx catalyst control.
Further development of the sensors was mainly driven by requirements set by the new emission legislation for automotive industry. From this period also originates the strong cooperation/partnership between Sensor-Nite & leading OEM's both in Europe and in the USA.
In 2001 Sensor-Nite itself was acquired by EPIQ (part of the Elex group) known for its Electronic contract manufacturing activities mainly for automotive market.
In 2002 the pilot production was relocated from Belgium to EPIQ Bulgaria where the capacity was gradually increased to what it is today.
In 2004, the strong growth and increasing investments of Sensor-Nite made Sensor-Nite a direct member of the Elex group. Mainly during this period Sensor-Nite further organized itself to become a full T1 supplier. In the same year the production activity was certified ISO TS 16949 & ISO 14001.
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