Revolutionizing Industry: How Algarve's FastSeal is Disrupting the Global Market

FastSeal: A Game Changer in Hydraulic Sealing Software

FastSeal, a microenterprise founded by Filipe Tomaz in Pechão, Algarve, is making waves in a niche market dominated by industrial giants. With 85% of its revenue coming from international markets, FastSeal specializes in developing software for hydraulic seals and engineered plastic parts. Their clientele spans across the globe, particularly in emerging economies.

Filipe Tomaz, who has a background in Systems and Computer Engineering from the University of Algarve, recognized the significance of hydraulic seals while working in his family's machinery repair workshop. His experience revealed a common issue: sourcing these essential components often involved long wait times.

The Birth of a Prototype

Determined to address this, Tomaz envisioned creating a prototype capable of producing hydraulic seals. After researching machinery in Austria, he realized that conventional machines operated by specialized software could fulfill this need. Despite initial financial constraints, he leveraged support from the Institute for Employment and Professional Training (IEFP) to hire a programmer and develop a basic software prototype.

Tomaz's entrepreneurial spirit led him to engage with Austrian manufacturers, resulting in a collaboration to produce a low-cost prototype. Although this initial prototype did not meet expectations, it laid the groundwork for further innovation.

Developing a Universal Software Solution

In 2021, amidst the pandemic, Tomaz shifted focus entirely to programming, aiming to create a universal software solution. His software, FastSealCreator, adapts to various machinery and boasts a database of 880 designs for hydraulic seals, significantly more than competitors. This adaptability allows clients to customize dimensions, ensuring precision to within 0.01mm.

The software simplifies the design process, enabling operators to generate visual representations and calculate production costs based on material prices and tool wear. Tomaz's first client was a factory in Mexico, which highlighted the demand for affordable solutions in developing countries.

Innovations on the Horizon

Looking ahead, Tomaz is exploring the WebFastQuote project, which aims to facilitate online orders for custom parts. This innovative solution, supported by ALGARVE 2030, will allow customers to select and order unique pieces with minimal human intervention.

As FastSeal continues to grow, it positions itself as a B2B enterprise, with expectations to exceed €250,000 in revenue for 2023. Tomaz remains committed to innovation, ensuring that FastSeal remains at the forefront of the hydraulic sealing industry, catering to both local and global markets.