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Elsyca, a global pioneer in computer-aided engineering (CAE) simulation for electrochemical processes and surface finishing, announces the acquisition of Hivelix, a specialist in advanced surface treatment simulation with strong expertise in multiphysics modelling and AI-assisted process optimisation. Together, they will deliver a uniquely powerful simulation platform to manufacturers across automotive, aerospace, luxury goods, electronics, and industrial markets, where surface quality is not a detail, but a defining performance and compliance requirement.
“This acquisition strengthens our ambition to build the leading simulation platform for electrochemical processes,” said Diego D’Udekem, CEO of Elsyca.
Simulation at the heart of modern manufacturing
Surface finishing is no longer an afterthought at the end of the manufacturing process. Across the industries that demand the highest standards - from the structural integrity of aerospace components to the flawless lacquer of a luxury timepiece - the electrochemical processes governing coating, plating, anodizing, and corrosion protection are critical engineering disciplines in their own right. And like all complex engineering disciplines, they demand rigorous simulation.
Elsyca has spent decades developing industry-leading CAE tools that allow engineers to model, predict, and optimize electrochemical processes with precision. Its simulation software enables manufacturers to visualize current density distributions, predict coating thickness uniformity, optimize rack and jig designs, and eliminate costly physical trials, all in a virtual environment before a single part enters the production line.
Serving the industries where surface performance is non-negotiable
The combined company will serve a broad range of high-demand industries, each with distinct surface finishing requirements that benefit directly from advanced simulation. In automotive, electroplating and e-coating are critical for corrosion protection and the surface integrity of EV battery components. In aerospace, CAE simulation allows engineers to validate anodizing and conversion coating processes against exacting military and civil aviation standards before qualification testing. In luxury goods, electronics, and industrial manufacturing, from watchmaking and semiconductor plating to medical devices and hydraulics, simulation gives engineers the precision and confidence to achieve flawless, functional surfaces at every scale.
“Every one of our target industries has the same underlying challenge: surface finishing processes are complex, sensitive, and expensive to get wrong,” says Baptiste Fedi, CEO of Hivelix. “Our shared mission is to give engineers the simulation tools they need to get it right the first time, every time, whether they are finishing a turbine blade, a luxury watch case, or an EV battery housing.”
AI-enhanced simulation: the next frontier
The combined entity will accelerate the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into its CAE simulation platform. The companies aim to develop AI-assisted optimization tools that dramatically reduce the time engineers spend on iterative design.
Digital twin technology will also be a central focus, enabling manufacturers to maintain living simulation models of their production lines that update in real time with process data, closing the loop between virtual engineering and physical production.
“Simulation and AI are not competing approaches, they are deeply complementary,” says Diego d’Udekem. “Physics-based simulation gives you understanding. AI gives you speed. Together, they give manufacturers the ability to engineer surface finishing processes with a higher level of precision and confidence.”
Continuity for customers, expanded capabilities ahead
Customers and partners of both Elsyca and Hivelix can expect full continuity of existing products, services, and support throughout the transition. A combined product roadmap, including new integrated simulation modules targeting specific industry workflows, will be shared in the months ahead.
