History of Steam Innovation
Hydro-Thermal traces its roots back to 1927, when inventors John White and Roy Miller patented heating equipment using steam to precisely control water temperature. The device was “direct in action,” extended the service life and used a “valve seat with a sliding closure member.” These components continue to serve as a foundation for Hydro-Thermal’s direct steam injection technology today.
How Hydro-Thermal Began…
In 1964, the Zaiser family purchased the business and renamed it Hydro-Thermal Corporation. Donald Zaiser operated the company at its Wauwatosa, Wisconsin location on 70th and State Street. Companies like ADM (Archer Daniels Midland), Cargill, Cerestar, Corn Products Company, and Grain Processing Corporation used the Hydroheater for integrated corn-based sugar production.
Gary Zaiser began the second generation of ownership in 1979. With his Mechanical Engineering degree from Cornell University, the company expanded applications to grain based ethanol at Andersons, Badger State Ethanol, Flint River, and VeraSun, and the chemical industry at Ashland Chemical, EI DuPont, PCS Phosphates, and PPG Industries. Hydro-Thermal grew in business, building its facilities in Waukesha, Wisconsin and grew in knowledge through university partnerships to generate fundamental research in steam heating.
Today, Jim Zaiser represents the third generation, leading the company’s product diversification, advanced two-phase flow realization, international expansion, and system integration. The company has continued its application to the traditional industries as well as new installations in petroleum, mining, and food processing.
The company has more than a dozen active patents and registration in numerous foreign countries. It manages business processes through an integrated ISO 9001 quality procedure. An on-site test lab allows engineers, researchers and academia to completely understand and develop new innovative and value-added processes. The company continues to invest in people, hiring the best and the brightest, and investing in the health and wellness of all employees.
Hydro-Thermal ~ Competitive Advantage
Many companies say they are the best in the business. Through its network of experts and innovative products, Hydro-Thermal Corporation offers a variety of unique factors that put the company above all others.
Visit YouTube
Steam Innovation Timeline
This timeline explores the history of Hydro-Thermal from 1911 to present day. Each decade features illustrated descriptions of significant innovations in the company and products, as well as company history milestones. Please enjoy learning more about our company and the industry in general.
1911– Direct steam injection technology developed
Development of direct steam injection (DSI) technology.
1927– Foundational Patent Filed
Inventors John White and Roy Miller patent heating equipment that uses steam to precisely control water temperature. This “direct in action” device features a valve seat with a sliding closure member, components that continue to serve as the foundation for Hydro-Thermal’s direct steam injection technology today.
1931 – DSI Manufactured for Paper Mills
Manufacturing industrialist Harry Schauer introduces DSI technology to paper mills, collaborating with chief engineers from Kimberly-Clark to apply it in various heating processes. This leads to the development of the Hydroheater™.
1934 – First Hydroheater™ Manufactured
The Hydroheater™, a device for precise and efficient heating, is first manufactured, becoming a key innovation in steam heating technology.
1963 – First Hydroheater Patent Approved
The first Hydroheater patent is approved, marking a significant advancement in steam heating technology
1964 – Company Renamed Hydro-Thermal
The Zaiser family purchases the business and renames it Hydro-Thermal Corporation. Donald Zaiser operates the company in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.
1968 – Expansion into Industrial Tools
Hydro-Thermal acquires WIZARD Drum Tool Co., expanding its product offerings in industrial tools.
1972 – K400 Hydroheater Invented
K400 Hydroheater is developed, improving efficiency and temperature control.
1979 – Second Generation of Ownership Begins
Gary Zaiser begins the second generation of ownership, expanding applications in grain-based ethanol and the chemical industry. Hydro-Thermal partners with major companies such as Andersons, Badger State Ethanol, and DuPont.
1985 – ATTEC Systems Launched
ATTEC systems introduced, enhancing automation and process efficiency.
1991 – Sanitary Hydroheater Invented
Developed to meet stringent hygiene standards for food and pharmaceutical applications.
1995 – Relocation to Current Facility
Hydro-Thermal moves to its current location in Waukesha, WI.
1996 – K500 Hydroheater Invented
Offers improved steam control for industrial processes.
2000 – International Market Expansion
Hydro-Thermal strengthens its global presence.
2001 – Solaris Hydroheater Invented
Designed for high-efficiency heating in specialized applications.
2003 – K500 Autopilot Introduced
Introduces automated steam injection technology.
2004 – ISO Certification Achieved
Ensures high-quality manufacturing standards.
2005 – EZ Heater Introduced
Offers user-friendly and efficient heating solutions.
2010 – Manufacturer of the Year (Small Company)
Wins Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year – Grand Award (Small Company Category), recognizing excellence in innovation and operations.
2011 – Infuze Heater Invented and Export Award
Infuze Heater provides precise heating for specialized industries. Wins Governor’s Export Achievement Award for expanding international markets.
2012 – K600 Series Launched and Business Awards
K600 Hydroheater and K600 Autopilot invented, enhancing automation and efficiency. Receives Seven Seals Award and Certificate of Recognition and wins Wisconsin Family Business of the Year – Grand Award.
2014 – SilverLine Launched and Major Recognition
SilverLine system launched, optimizing steam heating applications. Wins President’s “E” Award for Exports, and is recognized as a Future 50 Company, Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Finalist, Top 10 Business of the Year, and IQ (Innovation Quotient) Award winner.
2016 – Awards Sweep for Manufacturing and Innovation
Wins Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year – Grand Award (Medium Company Category). Receives Corporate Partner Award (WEF), Fastest Growing Firm recognition, APICS Company of the Year, Governor’s Export Achievement Award, and is a finalist for Platts Global Metals Award.
2018 – NOH Launch and Export Recognition
Non-Obstructive Heater (NOH) launched, offering a clog-resistant design for high-solid applications. Receives President’s “E” Star Award for Exports and opens international office in Lyon, France.
2022 – Hydron™ Sanitary Hydroheater Introduced
Sanitary Hydroheater launched, designed for high-purity applications.
2023 – Innovation Award for Jim Zaiser
Jim Zaiser receives BizTimes Innovation Award for contributions to industrial heating solutions.
2024 – 90th Anniversary and Export Honor
Hydro-Thermal celebrates 90 years and wins its second President’s “E” Star Award for Exports, marking continued excellence in global business.
About Hydro-Thermal
Explore our website to learn more about Hydro-Thermal products, direct steam injection technology, where our products work and more.
Our Products