Bühler launches OptiBake, the world’s first wafer baking oven powered by induction heating setting a new standard in quality, efficiency, and sustainability. OptiBake cuts energy use by up to 50% compared to traditional gas-fired ovens and offers unparalleled process control and operational flexibility.
Sandra Lutz, Head of Business Unit Wafer at Bühler, says: “With OptiBake, we wanted to deliver more than a new oven. We aimed to combine outstanding wafer quality with maximum flexibility and sustainability. “Electric induction heating helps our customers reduce costs, meet climate goals, and future-proof their operations.”
Inductive heating unlike conventional electric or gas systems generates heat directly within the baking plates using electromagnetic fields. This eliminates open flames, resulting in a clean process with no direct CO2, CO, or NOx emissions. The reduced energy demand and absence of combustion emissions can also provide regulatory and tax advantages, plus access to green subsidies. Environmental benefits are amplified when using renewable electricity, supporting broader decarbonisation goals and enhancing energy security by moving away from natural gas.
OptiBake’s performance is driven by its uniquely designed baking plates and individual temperature control per plate, enabling precise, consistent heat distribution. This ensures top-quality wafer sheets while adapting quickly to recipe or production changes perfect for today’s fast-moving markets.
With reduced chamber temperatures, the oven also minimises thermal stress on components, lowers lifecycle costs, and offers quieter operation. No combustion means simplified heat recovery and safer working conditions, as there is no fire risk. Additionally, the system is EMV-safe and allows 100% raw material use. Scraps can be reused instead of burned.
“With rising CO2 taxes and volatile energy prices, food producers must act now to stay competitive,” says Johannes Greil, Head of Product Management Wafer at Bühler. “OptiBake is a true milestone – bringing together quality, efficiency, and sustainability in one system.”
OptiBake has already won the Lower Austrian Innovation Award 2025, standing out among nearly 80 entries to earn the prestigious Karl Ritter von Ghega Prize. “This recognition celebrates not only the innovation behind OptiBake but the dedication of our entire team and partners,” says Sandra Lutz.
One of those partners is Loacker, the Italian premium wafer producer. Loacker began working with Bühler in 2020 to explore zero-emission baking solutions. “Becoming Bühler’s pilot partner is a natural fit for our values and sustainability goals,” says Andreas Loacker, Vice Chairman. “OptiBake allows us to maintain high product quality while making real progress toward decarbonisation.”
“Our target is zero-emission production,” adds Markus Valersi, Project Manager Engineering at Loacker. “OptiBake gives us the efficiency and performance we need to make this vision a reality.”
