Published: 07/01/2026

Industrial Heat Transfer Services Acquires Affton Radiator Services

(Pictured: Kristen Rickermann, Kyle Rickermann, Bill Rickermann, and Rhonda Rickermann)

Effective June 1, 2026, Industrial Heat Transfer Services (IHT Services) has officially acquired Affton Radiator Services, bringing together two respected names in the heat transfer industry under the ownership of Kyle Rickermann.

"This acquisition represents far more than growth—it's about preserving a proud 49-year legacy, creating new opportunities for our employees, and expanding the value we provide to our customers," said Kyle Rickermann, Owner of Industrial Heat Transfer Services. "Affton Radiator Services built an outstanding reputation through decades of hard work, technical expertise, and an unwavering commitment to customer service. We are honored to continue that legacy while investing in new capabilities, advanced equipment, expanded facilities, and additional resources that will allow us to better serve the industries that rely on us every day."

Based in the St. Louis area, IHT Services specializes in the repair, remanufacturing, and manufacturing of heat transfer equipment for the heavy-duty, industrial, marine, locomotive, mining, and critical power industries. From push boats and towboats to power generation equipment, mining machinery, industrial process equipment, and diesel-powered engines, IHT Services delivers high-quality cooling solutions designed to maximize performance and reliability.

"As I reflect on this milestone, I'm reminded that accomplishments like this are never achieved alone," Rickermann continued. "I owe an incredible debt of gratitude to our employees, customers, suppliers, mentors, friends, and family who have believed in our vision. Most importantly, I want to thank my father, Bill Rickermann. He introduced me to this industry, shared decades of knowledge and experience, and taught me the importance of hard work, integrity, craftsmanship, and always taking care of the customer. Without his guidance and support, this moment would not have been possible."

A Legacy Nearly Five Decades in the Making

Richard and Susan Rickermann acquired Affton Radiator Services in June 1977. Shortly after graduating from Lindbergh High School in 1977, their son, Bill Rickermann, joined the family business after completing General Motors' Apprenticeship Training Program during the summer of 1976.

Following Richard Rickermann's passing in 1989, Bill assumed ownership of the business alongside his mother, Susan. Under Bill's leadership, Affton Radiator Services grew from a 6-bay radiator repair shop into one of the Midwest's most respected heat transfer companies. In 2016, the company expanded into its current 15,600-square-foot facility to better serve its growing customer base.

Today, that same facility serves as the unified headquarters for both Industrial Heat Transfer Services and Affton Radiator Services, operating together under one roof with expanded capabilities and increased capacity.

Reflections from Bill Rickermann

Looking back on nearly five decades in the industry, Bill Rickermann reflected on the career that shaped his life.

"This industry has given me more than I could have ever imagined. It has provided a career that I truly loved, lifelong friendships, opportunities to solve problems every day, and most importantly, the ability to provide for my family. I have been blessed to work alongside incredible employees, loyal customers, and outstanding suppliers throughout my career. I couldn't be more proud to see Kyle carrying that legacy forward and taking it to an entirely new level."

Bill also expressed his appreciation to several individuals who played a significant role in both his personal and professional journey.

"I want to sincerely thank David Bienvenu, former owner of Radiator Services Co. in Houma, Louisiana, for his continued support over the years and for sharing his tremendous knowledge of industrial heat exchanger applications,” said Bill Rickermann. “David has always been someone I could call, and his willingness to help meant a great deal to me. I'd also like to thank Steve Coffey, former owner of Therm-Process in Dallas, Texas. Steve encouraged me years ago to expand beyond traditional radiator work and begin focusing on heavy-duty and industrial heat exchanger repairs. That advice changed the direction of our business and helped position Affton Radiator Services for long-term growth."

Finally, Bill recognized the person who stood beside him throughout the highs and lows of business ownership. "Most importantly, I want to thank my wife, Rhonda. Running a family business isn't always easy, and she stood beside me through every challenge, every long day, and every success. Her support, patience, and dedication made everything we accomplished possible. I couldn't have done it without her."

A Well-Earned Retirement

After nearly 50 years in the heat transfer industry, Bill Rickermann is officially retiring. While stepping away from day-to-day operations, he plans to spend more time traveling, fishing, and enjoying retirement with his family.

Bill also looks forward to pursuing another passion through a smaller business venture, Glen Ray MoPar Services, where he will continue building and restoring high-quality radiators for customers restoring classic Mopar automobiles.

Looking Ahead

With the addition of Affton Radiator Services, IHT Services now brings together 96 years of combined industry experience, expanded manufacturing and repair capabilities, a larger facility, and an experienced team dedicated to serving customers across North America.

"Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey," Kyle Rickermann said. "We are honored to preserve the legacy Bill and his family built over the past 49 years while continuing to invest in our people, our customers, and our future. This is an exciting new chapter, and we're just getting started."