Ceramic

Handling Raw Materials for High-performance Ceramics

10.04.2009 | Editor: Wolfgang Geisler

Bulk Solids

For Nabaltec, playing it safe was important. As such, the new system ran in trial mode for nearly half a year. During this time, small corrections were made and problems were eliminated, such as the redesign of the conveyance process for a certain raw material. The facility has been fully operational since the summer of 2008. The experience has been positive. “The system runs smoothly,” says Jan Kupfer. Efficiency in the manufacture of ceramic compounds was significantly increased. This was achieved by reducing mill downtimes to near zero. “The greatest benefit has been our ability to logistically unlink manufacturing processes that previously blocked each other,” explains Jan Kupfer. Today, while the mills are preparing batches, up to nine other formulations can be weighed. The amount of manual labour required to produce the mixtures was also reduced, thereby eliminating a source of error. And finally, according to Kupfer, employees did also benefit: “By streamlining our weighing and conveying processes, we were able to create new and interesting job opportunities.” Automation also allowed for completely new work schedule models. “We can now assign personnel more effectively,” says Kupfer.

Positive Cooperation

Nabaltec has been pleased with its cooperation with the plant supplier. A lively exchange of information took place, both during the project phase and after start-up. Topics were discussed in a “very goal-oriented” manner. Despite the ambitious schedule, Geroldinger not only met all the specified deadlines, but “quick response times” and “a high level of flexibility” were also the order of the day. This contributed greatly to the success of the project. The teams were also able to “optimally combine expertise and knowledge from both sides,” adds the Nabaltec Manager. “Geroldinger was never satisfied with simply delivering a system but instead always focussed on delivering solutions and achieving common success.”