From a modest start in Khopoli to exporting to over 55 countries, Hi-Tech Radiators Pvt. Ltd. has charted a remarkable growth journey built on engineering excellence, operational precision, and strategic foresight. At the helm of this transformation is Kartik Daftari, Managing Director and CEO, whose leadership has helped the company evolve from a family-owned business into a trusted global supplier for mission-critical transformer components. In this exclusive interview with Machine Edge Global, Daftari shares insights into Hi-Tech’s defining milestones, expansion into new verticals, its relentless focus on innovation and automation, and a bold vision for sustainable, technology-driven manufacturing in the years to come.
From a family-owned business to a global exporter to 55+ countries—what have been some defining milestones in Hi-Tech’s journey?
We began our manufacturing journey in 2005 by setting up its first plant in Khopoli. In the early years, we focused on building a strong internal culture, recruiting technical and managerial talent, and attracting top professionals from Tier-2 cities as well.
We achieved a significant milestone in 2010 with the commissioning of a second radiator manufacturing facility, marking the beginning of Hi-Tech’s expansion. Between 2017 and 2020, Hi-Tech worked diligently to meet rigorous global quality standards, go through complex approval processes, operational excellence, in-house galvanizing plant and earn a green status with leading transformer manufacturers and utilities worldwide. The period following 2020 saw a substantial surge in global exports, propelled by our efforts on value driven systems and Hi-Tech’s commitment to supply reliability, and continuous improvement.
What are the core growth strategies that have helped Hi-Tech maintain a competitive edge in global markets?
Sustained global competitiveness of Hi-Tech is the result of an integrated growth strategy, combining process discipline, a value-driven culture, capable teams, and strategic investments. A backward integration significantly reduced reliance on external sources, strengthened supply chain resilience, and improved cost and quality controls, key differentiators in export markets with high entry barriers and stringent regulatory requirements.
We have focused more on operational excellence through lean manufacturing, engineering optimization, and continuous improvement has ensured process stability, cost efficiency, and scalability. Our ability to maintain consistency in quality and delivery timelines has further reinforced customer trust, particularly in mission-critical industries like energy and infrastructure where delays or defects are unacceptable.
Could you share some insights on your plans for capacity expansion and entry into new sectors?
We are actively expanding our manufacturing footprint to meet rising demand and explore new growth avenues. We are currently investing in a Greenfield project that will add 12,000 MT of annual radiator production capacity to the existing 24,000 MT, thereby scaling total capacity to 36,000 MT per annum. This expansion will ensure that Hi-Tech is well-positioned to meet global demand while maintaining delivery commitments and quality benchmarks.
Parallelly we are entering the power tank segment, which caters to the transmission and power generation categories of the transformer industry. Unlike distribution tanks, power tanks are complex, high-capacity components that require a high degree of engineering precision and process control. Given Hi-Tech’s proven capability in managing high-volume, high-variety tank production, the company is confident of bridging the gap in this underserved market.
To facilitate this entry, Hi-Tech is evaluating both Greenfield investments and potential acquisitions. The goal is to establish operations in this new segment within a year, backed by the company’s expertise in manufacturing, quality systems, and customer integration.
Hi-Tech has a dedicated New Product Development (NPD) team. How integral is R&D to your product pipeline and overall competitiveness?
Research and Development is deeply embedded in Hi-Tech’s strategy, both as a means of driving innovation and sustaining long-term competitiveness. The New Product Development (NPD) team is crucial to launch new products such as power tanks and continuously optimizing existing processes to stay ahead of technological shifts.
We are in the process of establishing a dedicated R&D vertical, independent of operational leadership, to bring greater focus and strategic depth to innovation. This team will include senior R&D professionals and will be tasked with scouting, adopting, and implementing advancements in areas like IoT integration, cloud-based systems, and digital manufacturing.
We have already begun integrating advanced tools such as SolidWorks and RADAN for digital twin simulation and direct-to-machine fabrication. Combined with investments in laser-cutting and ERP-integrated automation, these technologies enhance precision, reduce waste, and speed up product development cycles.
With an annual operational capacity of 24,000 MT for radiators and 7,200 MT for tanks, what operational efficiencies have helped you scale while maintaining quality?
To scale our operations while maintaining high-quality standards we are driven by a commitment to process-centric manufacturing and operational excellence.
Three key differentiators stand out in this approach: Process Integrity, Uncompromised Quality, and Detailed Engineering.
We place immense emphasis on doing the job right the first time, even if it means pausing production to recalibrate processes. This approach ensures consistency and minimizes downstream rework or quality failures. We have institutionalized lean manufacturing practices, and employees undergo regular training on waste identification and elimination.
Additionally, a highly active continuous improvement culture exists across departments, where teams are encouraged to propose and implement incremental improvements via the Kaizen initiative. The integration of engineering excellence and shop floor discipline ensures that the company can achieve higher output per square foot compared to industry peers, often outperforming competitors with decades more experience. In effect, Hi-Tech has made quality and efficiency inseparable pillars of its operations.
How is automation being leveraged at Hi-Tech to boost productivity and precision?
Automation is a strategic enabler for us at Hi-Tech, particularly as the company scales up and diversifies its offerings. In our upcoming radiator manufacturing line, the fifth such line, we have deployed full automation. This is expected to deliver a tenfold increase in monthly output per worker, significantly enhancing productivity while ensuring process repeatability and product consistency.
Beyond output gains, automation has also improved precision by minimizing human error in fabrication processes. Hi-Tech leverages software-driven optimization for raw material usage, automated design-to-manufacturing workflows, and laser cutting for structural components. These systems communicate directly with the company’s ERP, enabling data-driven decision-making and optimal resource utilization.
At the same time, we are mindful of maintaining workforce harmony. Automation is deployed not to displace workers, but to absorb growing demand and improve working conditions. We continue to hire and reskill employees, ensuring that automation uplifts both efficiency and workforce engagement.
Sustainability is becoming a critical factor in manufacturing. What steps has Hi-Tech taken to make its processes more eco-friendly?
We recognize sustainability as a compliance requirement and a business imperative and societal responsibility. The company has undertaken multiple initiatives across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) dimensions to minimize our ecological footprint and enhance social impact.
On the environmental front, Hi-Tech has installed 440 kW and 700 kW solar power systems, bringing its total renewable energy capacity to 1 MW. Plans are underway to source up to 100% of daytime energy through solar Power Purchase Agreements. Additionally, we have achieved zero liquid discharge status through advanced effluent treatment systems.
Socially, we have invested in worker welfare through well-ventilated plants, hygienic lunchrooms, 24/7 on-site medical facilities, and dedicated cooling systems to maintain a conducive work environment. On the governance front, we maintain full statutory compliance, fair wage practices, and a culture of transparency.
What does the future look like for Hi-Tech in the next five years in terms of product innovation, market expansion, and global footprint?
Looking ahead, Hi-Tech envisions a future marked by aggressive product diversification, geographic expansion, and continuous innovation. We aim to strengthen our presence in the power tank segment and expand the radiator manufacturing footprint to be closer to key customers globally.
From a market perspective, we anticipate a growing demand for transformer components as countries invest in upgrading their energy infrastructure. Hi-Tech is well-positioned to capitalize on this opportunity, leveraging its strong global relationships and reputation for quality. While specific geographies remain confidential, we have a clear roadmap for entering new markets and forging deeper customer engagements.
Innovation will remain a cornerstone of this vision. The R&D vertical will continue to drive advancements in manufacturing technologies, digital integration, and product design, ensuring that Hi-Tech stays ahead of the curve. With a current CAGR of approximately 30%, we expect to sustain this growth trajectory by combining engineering excellence with strategic foresight.