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Engineered for Sustainability

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Vilter History

Legacy of Industrial Compression Innovation

The 150-year history of the Vilter™ brand tells a rich story of perseverance and drive to cultivate continuous innovation within the industrial refrigeration and gas compression industries.

Vilter History - 1867

1867

Vilter Manufacturing started as a general purpose job shop that Peter Weisel opened in 1867 in Milwaukee.

Vilter History - 1880

1880

Ernest Vilter became a partner in the business and soon after introduced the Corliss Engine.

1882

Vilter introduced the first refrigeration compressor in 1882.

Vilter History - 1892

1892

After a devastating fire, Vilter rebuilt a larger site and quickly rose as an industrial refrigeration leader, providing cooling equipment to ice plants, breweries and packing houses.

1914-1945

The company played a crucial role in supporting the U.S. in World War I and World War II. 

Vilter History - 1945

1945

The Vilter 440 reciprocating compressor was developed in 1945. It remains an industry standard today.

Vilter History - The Future

The Future

We continue to develop robust and efficient industrial refrigeration and oil & gas solutions that are mindful of total cost of ownership, environmental awareness and improving operational safety. Moving forward, Vilter will continue to address the needs of our customers with innovations that adapt to changing industry requirements.

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