Ekoenergetyka To Sell Up To 140 Bus Charging Stations To Nobina, Top Scandinavian Public Transportation Operator
Ekoenergetyka will provide up to 140 chargers for electric buses to Nobina, the largest Scandinavian public transportation operator, as the European maker of high-power electric vehicle infrastructure continues its expansion in the Nordic region.
Ekoenergetyka will install its reliable Axon Easy 120kW and 180kW chargers at four bus depots in the Swedish capital, Stockholm, this year, bringing them on line by January 2025. Nobina has the largest zero-emission bus fleet in all of Scandinavia and employs 13,000 people in four countries, while Ekoenergetyka provides 20% of Europe’s charging stations for municipal buses.
The contract is part of a broader push by Ekoenergetyka into the Nordic region, one of the world’s fastest growing markets for electric vehicles.
“This contract is an important vote of confidence in Ekoenergetyka, from a major player on a demanding market,” said Ekoenergetyka CEO and Co-Founder Bartosz Kubik. “Our relationship with Nobina is off to a great start, and we’re proud to be working with them as they build the future of sustainable transportation in Stockholm and throughout the Nordic region.”
Nobina, which provides sustainable transportation to 1 million people every day, is committed to enhancing urban mobility while minimizing environmental impact. Axon Easy DC charging stations by Ekoenergetyka will be located in bus depots in the Swedish capital. The chargers are known for their efficiency and reliability, ideal for fast charging in a bustling city.
“We are pleased with the initial results of our relationship with Ekoenergetyka, and we look forward to working closely with them,” said Lisa Sievert, Electrification at Nobina. “Our customers demand high-quality, reliable green transportation, and with Ekoenergetyka we’ve found a partner who can help us deliver.”
Ekoenergetyka’s expansion drive is backed by Enterprise Investors, a leading Central European private equity fund, which took a significant minority stake last year. The fund has announced plans to invest more than €45 million in e-mobility projects.
Ekoenergetyka provides round-the-clock remote monitoring and repair services for its charging stations from its headquarters in Zielona Góra, western Poland. The company’s advanced systems allow it to address almost 60% of reported issues remotely.
Established in 2009, Ekoenergetyka grew out of an academic research project by Kubik and co-founder Maciej Wojeński, and now employs more than 1,000 people.
On the theme “Let’s paper up business!”, Paboco, The Paper Bottle Company, proudly launches the Next Gen Paper Bottle by initiating full-scale production, marking a milestone towards a more sustainable future. “This is a fantastic opportunity for conscious brands and consumers looking to make a real difference”, says CEO Tim Silbermann.
The Next Gen Paper Bottle signifies Paboco’s dedication to pursuing its vision of fully biobased bottle packaging. With a new state-of-the-art manufacturing site in Slangerup, Denmark, Paboco is gearing up for full-scale production. The aim? To deliver over 20 million paper bottles by the end of 2025.
Paboco, The Paper Bottle Company, proudly launches the Next Gen Paper Bottle by initiating full-scale production, marking a milestone towards a more sustainable future.
A natural choice for a broad consumer market
Built on the idea of less fossil, more natural materials, the Next Gen Paper Bottle offers a minimal barrier solution while staying fully recyclable as paper packaging. Paboco empowers brands with design flexibility, allowing them to choose between standard paper bottles or bespoke designs. This versatility allows them to express their identity and connect with consumers on a deeper level.
Initially targeting brands in the beauty and homecare sectors, the Next Gen Paper Bottle shows promise across various industries, including premium spirits, food and beverage, vitamins and pills, pet care and more, indicating significant advancements in these areas. This scope offers consumers the opportunity to be part of driving change by choosing FSC-certified fibre-based packaging with less climate and environmental impact.
Accelerating growth for a sustainable impact
With ALPLA as the new majority shareholder and a long-trusted partner, Paboco is primed for accelerated growth, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable packaging solutions. CEO Tim Silbermann underscores this momentum by stating:
“The Next Gen Paper Bottle marks a milestone in our journey towards a fully biobased paper bottle. With ALPLA’s backing and our focus on full-scale production, we’re transitioning from an innovation pioneer to a progressive business, ready to fill our order books. Ultimately, we are here to make a sustainable impact and start a movement by placing paper bottles in the hands of every consumer.”
Paboco, The Paper Bottle Company, proudly launches the Next Gen Paper Bottle by initiating full-scale production, marking a milestone towards a more sustainable future.
Tested and supported by world-leading brands
Since 2021, Paboco has been testing its ground-breaking products in partnership with Pioneer Community members: The Absolut Group, Carlsberg Group, The Coca-Cola Company, L’Oréal, and Procter & Gamble.
“After years of innovation and successful collaborations, we are now prepared to launch the Next Gen Paper Bottle on a larger scale”, Tim Silbermann continues. “I welcome more conscious brands that want to join us in changing this industry for good.”
Henkel And Covestro Collaborate For Sustainability Of Engineered Wood Adhesives
Materials are key to lower carbon footprint across sectors.
Engineered wood adhesives from Henkel based on raw materials from Covestro used in building and construction applications.
Over 60% of the formulated adhesives are linked to bio-based feedstocks attributed via mass balance approach.
German chemical companies Henkel and Covestro join forces to foster sustainability for adhesives in load bearing timber construction. Such elements, as Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) or Glued Laminated Timber (GLT), can be found in a variety of indoor and outdoor applications of buildings, from staircases to facades to structural elements. For that purpose, materials manufacturer Covestro provides Henkel with polyurethane-based raw materials linked to bio-based feedstocks attributed via the mass balance approach. Henkel in turn uses the supplied products for its high-performance adhesive solutions.
“Collaborations along the value chain with like-minded partners are key to enable a circular and climate neutral world. Materials play an important role for example in reducing the carbon footprint of buildings. With Henkel’s new wood adhesive based on Covestro’s ever more sustainable raw materials, we jointly contribute to the circular transformation of the construction industry”, says Dr. Thomas Roemer, Head of the Coatings and Adhesives Business Entity at Covestro.
Materials are key for sustainability of various sectors
By enabling timber construction, load-bearing adhesives already contribute to sustainability of building structures. Since timber is a natural material, its properties inherently underly bigger variations than most synthetically produced materials. It is for example prone to deformation, inhibiting aesthetics as well as functionality, usually limiting its use in load-bearing or other demanding applications. The solution: Utilizing technologies and processes to bond different layers of wood, like cross-lamination or glue-lamination with polyurethane adhesives. Thereby it is possible to create wood panels that maintain strength, form and functionality over time. By increasing the use of alternative raw materials, the carbon footprint of such material can further be improved.
“This is another step towards an ever more sustainable and circular future. Thanks to our work with Covestro, we are able to supply two of our best-selling polyurethane adhesives now being manufactured using alternative raw materials. In addition and by using the mass balance approach, there is no change in product performance and all load bearing certificates of the adhesives remain. With this, we provide our direct customers as well as architects and construction companies with a solution that contributes to their aim of reducing the impact of materials on the overall carbon footprint of buildings”, says Dr. Claudia Meckel, Head of Product Development Engineered Wood at Henkel.
Henkel and Covestro both treat sustainability and fostering a circular economy with high priority. For Covestro, broadening its raw material base with bio-based or recycled solutions is key part of that endeavor. Since such alternatives are blended with conventional raw materials in the manufacturing process, segregation and allocation are challenging. To attribute the used alternative feedstock to a final product, the mass balance approach is therefore used. That is a chain of custody method allowing to mix traditional and alternative raw materials during production, but separating and allocating them to products in bookkeeping. The soundness and compliance of this approach is certified externally by the internationally recognized ISCC PLUS scheme. For the wood adhesive, all involved sites and partners of Henkel and Covestro are certified according to this scheme.
Syensqo Announces Sustainable Mobility And Technology Collaborations At Jec 2024
Syensqo, previously part of Solvay group, has for decades contributed to shaping the use of composites across aerospace and automotive by developing innovative lightweight and high performance materials compatible with efficient processing technologies. At this year’s JEC World, the company will showcase new advancements and partnerships supporting the trends of electrification, hydrogen propulsion and bio-sourcing as part of its ambition to advance humanity.
“We are proud to showcase our new company and strong focus on sustainability at JEC World 2024,” said Rodrigo Elizondo, President of Syensqo Composite Materials Global Business Unit. “The show is the first international event that Syensqo is exhibiting at and we are looking forward to showcasing the legacy that got us here as well as our plans for the future. We have bold ambitions and exciting new partnerships to develop technologies that will have a broad impact in the years to come.”
“Syensqo has been a long standing supporter of JEC World, among the most significant composites shows for the industry,” said Marc Doyle, Executive Vice President Composite Materials of Syensqo. “We are proud to have a large presence at the event and to use it as a platform to launch cutting edge material innovations serving multiple markets. This year promises to be another vibrant edition!”
Inroads in hydrogen propulsion
Syensqo recently announced its partnership with Climate Impulse, a green hydrogen powered non-stop flight project around the Earth, that will demonstrate how concrete solutions can help build a cleaner and more efficient world. This challenge is made possible by Syensqo’s expertise and technological ingenuity. Syensqo’s composites, surfacing and adhesive films will be critical components of the aircraft structure and hydrogen tanks.
New partnerships to enable electric advanced air mobility
Syensqo was selected by Schiebel, manufacturer of unmanned air systems, as advanced material supplier. The Schiebel Unmanned Air System (UAS) CAMCOPTERS-100 is being operated in the defense and civil sectors. Syensqo’s carbon fiber composite materials, used on the fuselage in combination with Titanium, enable a wide range of payload and endurance combinations. The CAMCOPTERS-100 will be on public display at JEC World on Syensqo’s booth.
Syensqo and Manna have signed an agreement for the supply of advanced materials used to manufacture delivery drones. The European company aims to make lightning-fast suburban deliveries affordable, green and safe. Syensqo’s lightweight materials will make this possible.
Bio-based carbon fiber innovation advancements
Syensqo is committed to providing its customers with sustainable solutions that support the planet and help them achieve their environmental ambitions, by reducing their Scope 3 emissions.
At the show Syensqo will showcase the work done with Trillium, focused on creating sustainable raw materials for carbon fiber applications. Trillium has made significant progress on the design and installation of a small-scale Bio-ACN(bio-based acrylonitrile) facility and delivered initial representative pilot scale samples of Bio-ACNto Syensqo. Syensqo has converted the supplied Bio-ACNto lab scale samples of a Poly Bio-ACN precursor suitable for the creation of research quantities of bio-based carbon fiber. Through 2024 Syensqo and Trillium expect to further advance on their journey towards fully bio-based carbon fiber composites.
Visitors are invited to re-discover Syensqo at Booth K58 in Hall 5 and to join the live presentation at the Agora 5 stage.
Live Presentations, Agora 5 stage
Tuesday 5th, 10am, Syensqo Material Science Application Center: a Center of Excellence in Prototyping, Testing & Virtual Engineering for Thermoplastic Composites applications (Laurent Hazard, Head of MSAC)
Tuesday 5th, 11:30am, Out of Autoclave Composites for Large space and launch Vehicle Structures (Ben Hawtin, Head of Customer Development – EMEA)
Wednesday 6th, 11:30am, Compression Molding Advancements at Syensqo (John Hackett, Senior Applications Development Engineer)
Wednesday 6th, 3pm, The Challenges of Full Rate Production for AAM (Ross Key, Senior Applications Development Engineer)
KRAIBURG TPE Delivers Anti-Slip And Enhanced Grip Solutions For Emergency Responder Stretcher Handles And Mats
Stretcher devices are essential tools for emergency responders, enabling the safe transport of patients in critical situations. With a wide variety of stretchers available, ensuring a secure grip on the handles and incorporating anti-slip mats within basket stretchers is crucial to safeguarding both patients and rescuers during transit. Thermoplastic elastomers emerge as a cost-effective and practical choice of solutions for manufacturing stretcher components, providing the necessary flexibility, durability, and safety features required for these critical applications.
Optimizing Ergonomics and Safety in Handle, Grip and Anti-slip Mat Designs
The THERMOLAST H HC/AP series from KRAIBURG TPE represents a significant advancement in stretcher safety, as it offers excellent compression set properties that allow manufacturers to mold it into the precise shapes and textures needed for stretcher handles and grips. This customization not only ensures a comfortable fit but also contributes to the overall safety and ergonomics of the stretcher. The TPE series is an ideal choice for stretcher grips and handles due to its haptics and soft-touch surface characteristics, which enhance the ergonomic comfort for rescuers, especially in complex and high pressure emergency situations. This grip minimizes user fatigue and reduces the risk of injuries to the rescuer’s hand, emphasizing the importance of safety and ease of use in stretcher design.
Overmolding TPE compounds on the handle and anti-slip mat of a basket stretcher creates a crucial anti-slip surface. This surface enhances safety during patient transfers, ensuring a secure grip and preventing accidents during rescue operations. It plays a vital role in the overall effectiveness and reliability of the stretcher in emergency situations.
THERMOLAST H HC/AP series has undergone testing, including ISO 10993-5 and GB/T 16886.5 (cytotoxicity), ensuring its safety and compliance. It conforms to strict regulatory standards, including US FDA CFR 21 and Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. Additionally, the series is free of animal ingredients and devoid of PVC, silicone, and latex. Its versatility extends to sterilization methods, as it can be safely autoclaved at 121°C or sterilized using EtO, ensuring a high level of hygiene in medical settings. The HC/AP series exhibits excellent adhesion to PP and PE when used in injection molding processes. THERMOLAST H is available as translucent, and pre-coloration is available subject to the requirement of the customers. In addition to the HC/AP series, KRAIBURG TPE THERMOLAST H provides alternative solutions like the resealing series and polar adhesion series, addressing diverse customer needs and offering a range of specialized options for various applications.
Sustainability successes of our TPEs
KRAIBURG TPE’s recent sustainability innovations include a series of material solutions specially developed for automotive, consumer, consumer electronics, wearables and industry applications. Comprising up to 48% post-consumer recycled (PCR) and 50% post-industrial recycled (PIR) content, the material complies with multiple global standards such as FDA raw material compliance, RoHS and REACH SVHC requirements. KRAIBURG TPE also provides customers with product carbon footprint values.
Wayland Additive Will Demonstrate Benefits Of Calibur3 Metal Additive Manufacturing At Amads
Wayland Additive, an OEM of next generation eBeam metal additive manufacturing (AM) systems, will be highly visible at the upcoming AMADS (AM for Aerospace, Defence & Space) event, taking place in Bristol 27th and 28th February. Aerospace, defence and space applications of metal AM are amongst the most advanced in the sector, but progress can be limited by the limitations of the technologies available – especially with more exotic materials. This is where Calibur3 comes in, featuring Wayland’s NeuBeam process.
At AMADS, members of the Wayland Additive team will engage with attendees to highlight the ground-breaking capabilities of Calibur3 and demonstrate the stability and versatility of NeuBeam for processing a much wider range of industrial materials for production applications that are much wider in scope than existing AM processes allow.
Calibur3 introduces a genuine paradigm shift in eBeam powder bed fusion (PBF) technology. It represents a significant advancement compared with existing PBF systems, overcoming the inherent compromises associated with laser or traditional eBeam processes for metal materials. Design engineers and manufacturers of difficult applications can now revisit challenging or previously impossible projects with a more open approach.
Peter Hansford, CRO at Wayland comments, “Metal AM, in general, has come a long way and has made inroads for some production applications. Calibur3 has the potential to take production applications to the next level in a number of ways. At AMADS, our team members will be available to discuss new applications and new materials enabled by the capabilities of NeuBeam. We invite AMADS attendees to learn more about our hot part process, which eliminates residual thermal stresses, simplifies powder removal, and reduces post-processing requirements as well as the open approach that allows us to test and prove new material parameters in a matter of weeks.”
The NeuBeam process effectively neutralizes charge accumulation generated by the electron beam, providing greater flexibility compared to laser PBF and surpassing the stability issues of traditional eBeam PBF. This unique attribute enables tailored metallurgical requirements to match specific application needs, expanding the range of metal materials that can be utilized in the process. With NeuBeam, Wayland Additive not only enhances process development but also eliminates residual stresses, resulting in stress-free, crack-free parts, reduced energy consumption, and improved powder flow post-build.
Hansford continues, “Since commercialising our technology two years ago, Wayland is now shipping machines all over the world across a variety of industry sectors, including aerospace, to exploit the potential of our NeuBeam AM process.”
Uflex Showcases Innovative Product Offerings in Q3 FY24
In the third quarter of fiscal year 2024, UFlex Limited introduced a multitude of innovative products across its business verticals. The company also achieved notable recognition by winning multiple awards and securing patents in the quarter ended December 31, 2023.
Packaging Films Business
B-INM-M, Superior Barrier Metallized BOPP Film: This film stands out as a premier choice for various packaging needs. Inline-coated and metallised, it offers an exceptional oxygen barrier (OTR) of less than 01 cc/m2/day and boasts an excellent moisture barrier (WVTR) of less than 0.1 g/m2/day. With superior metal bond strength and cost-effective attributes, it is engineered for recyclability. This versatile film finds its application in a multitude of sectors including dry beverages, chips and snacks, health and beauty care sachets, detergents, and confectionery products. Its triple structure versatility allows it to replace aluminium foil and metallized PET, offering convenience and efficiency. It caters to diverse packaging requirements, ranging from 2-ply extrusion applications to single-layer pouches and sachets. The film includes features like both-side treatment and one side for metallization; hybrid composition with one side emphasizing high heat seal strength and the other side for metallization, and thicker micron options (30/40) with one side low SIT and the other side for metallization, making it an indispensable solution for a wide array of packaging applications.
C-CPM-ML-M, CPP metallized film:This film is tailored specifically for molasses packing, constituting a functional raw material that excels in various aspects. Recognized for its good seal integrity, this film ensures that contents remain securely enclosed, preserving freshness and quality. Boasting commendable barrier properties, it shields against external elements, maintaining the integrity of the packaged molasses. Its exceptional hot tack facilitates efficient sealing processes, enhancing productivity and reliability. Moreover, the filmexhibits good metal adhesion.
The C-CBP-WG CPP film:This film stands as a functional raw material designed to meet stringent packaging demands. Renowned for its exceptional optical properties, this film ensures clear visibility and presentation of packaged goods, enhancing product appeal. With low slip characteristics tailored for high-speed packaging environments, it ensures smooth handling and reliable performance throughout the packaging process. Notably, it boasts excellent drop impact strength, providing robust protection against potential damage during handling and transportation. Primarily engineered for low ambient temperature conditions, this film finds its niche in bread packaging, frozen foods, and bakery products, where maintaining product quality and integrity is paramount. Its versatility makes it a preferred choice for businesses seeking packaging solutions that combine performance and practicality.
The B-UTX ultra high barrier Alox BOPP film:This film is a top-tier Alox-coated product crafted from BOPP, serving as a functional raw material in the packaging industry. Renowned for its outstanding barrier properties, it excels in shielding contents from gases, oxygen (less than 1 cc/m2/day), and aromas, ensuring prolonged freshness and quality retention. Additionally, its exceptional moisture barrier (less than 1 gm/m2/day) effectively safeguards against humidity and moisture ingress, preserving the integrity of packaged goods. The film’s superior optics contribute to clear and visually appealing packaging presentations. Notably, its clear vacuum coating enhances its functionality and versatility across various applications. Tailored for dry foods, beverage powders, chips, snacks, biscuits, cookies, and crackers packaging, it meets the diverse needs of the food industry, ensuring optimal preservation and presentation of packaged products. The B-UTX film is a testament to innovation and quality, offering a reliable solution for businesses seeking high-performance packaging materials.
The B-UMB-M, an outstanding barrier metallized BOPP film:This film stands at the forefront of metallized films, offering unparalleled performance and versatility. Boasting exceptional oxygen (less than 0.1 cc/m2/day) and moisture barrier (less than 0.1 gm/m2/day) properties, it ensures prolonged freshness and quality retention of packaged goods. Furthermore, its exceptional barrier to aroma and migration barrier against mineral oil enhance product protection and integrity. With excellent metal adhesion, it guarantees secure bonding and durability. This film serves as a sustainable and recyclable solution, offering a chlorine-free alternative to PVDC-coated films and replacing aluminum foil while supporting eco-friendly practices. Its ease of processing at high speeds makes it ideal for various packaging applications, including dry fruits, beverages, chips, snacks, biscuits, cookies, crackers, confectionery, and chocolate packaging. The B-UMB-M film epitomizes innovation and reliability, catering to the diverse needs of the packaging industry while upholding sustainability standards.
Chemicals Business
Flexcure SF “Nutri” for NPH (Nutrition, Pharma and Hygiene) applications: Flexcure SF “Nutri” series represents a new generation radical mechanism designed especially for food packaging, pharma, and hygiene applications; for a wide range of substrates like paper, paper board and Met PET board, etc. suitable for processing with all latest generation high-speed UV sheetfed offset printing machines. The inks provided are specifically designed for application on the non-food contact side of food packaging, ensuring compliance with relevant Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and guidelines outlined in the Technical Data Sheet (TDS). Offering outstanding printability and transfer characteristics, these inks boast superior adhesion and maintain a controlled ink-water balance even at high speeds. With excellent curing properties and high colour strength coupled with minimal misting, they guarantee optimal results. Furthermore, they adhere to stringent standards, including EuPIA and Swiss ordinance guidelines, ensuring the lowest migration and odor levels. Free from harmful substances like BP, ITX, and silicon, these inks are available in a variety of colours, including process colours, white, and all base colours, catering to diverse packaging needs.
Flexgreen “HFS Screen” coating for all packaging applications: The Flexgreen product series represents a new generation of our LED inks and coatings for various print applications. Flexgreen “HFS Screen” coating is a free-radical chemistry-based UV LED varnish to be applied by screen printing specially designed to print on papers, cards, and cardboard. It is a highly flexible LED coating with excellent curing capabilities on automatic/semi-automatic screen-printing machines with LED lamps of wavelength 385-395 nm. Achieving high adhesion on challenging materials like PE or PP laminates and offset inks, this product stands out for its exceptional performance. Its cured film exhibits remarkable flexibility, allowing for precise die-cutting post-application. With outstanding foil receptivity and good resistance to nails and scratches, it ensures durability and longevity. The curing process, operating within the 385-395 nm wavelength band, is consistently excellent. Furthermore, it results in an impeccably even, smooth surface with a glossy finish, free from any odor or yellowing. Notably, this product is free from harmful substances such as BP and ITX, emphasizing its commitment to safety and quality.
Marine Lam Inks (water-based reverse lamination inks): Marine Lam Inks are meticulously crafted for Gravure to reverse printing applications, specifically tailored for BOPP and chemical-coated polyester films, presenting a low VOC solution aligned with the ecological demands of today’s society. These inks boast exceptional characteristics, including high strength coupled with low viscosity, facilitating smooth printing operations. They excel in printability and dot transfer, ensuring precise and vivid results. Notably, they exhibit outstanding adhesion on BOPP and CC PET, along with impressive bond strength values compatible with both solvent-free and solvent-based adhesives. With low VOC content, these inks emit minimal odor, enhancing working conditions. Moreover, they enable efficient printing speeds, making them a preferred choice for diverse printing needs.
FLEXBON R110A / FLEXBON R110C:The product is ingeniously formulated using reverse chemistry principles, where the NCO serves both as an adhesive and a hardener, accelerating the curing process. This unique approach ensures a higher crosslinking density within the polymer, resulting in expedited curing compared to conventional methods. Notably, the adhesive demonstrates excellent run-ability, facilitated by a low quantity of NCO components that contribute to rapid primary amine decay. Its standout features include faster decay of primary aromatic amines, establishing exceptional bonds even on metalized films, and boasting impressive bond and seal strength. Furthermore, it exhibits superior wettability on challenging substrates, rendering it a cost-effective and environmentally conscious solution. Its greener chemistry, characterized by low consumption of Isocyanate, underscores its commitment to sustainability and innovation in adhesive technology.
Flexible Packaging Business
Peelable PE Solution:A specially engineered peelable PE solution has been developed to meet the stringent demands of the Food and Beverages industry, ensuring both leak-proof performance and easy opening functionality. This innovative solution features a structured composition comprising 12 mic PET, 12 mic Met PET and 75 mic peelable natural PE. Specifically designed to cater to the unique requirements of food packaging, this peelable PE material offers exceptional sealing properties while also allowing for effortless opening. The customer, equipped with PP trays and utilizing both 12-track and 20-track machines, benefits from the versatility and reliability of this specialized packaging solution, streamlining their production processes and ensuring product integrity throughout the supply chain.
Packaging for Savlon Hand wash powder:UFlex has recently forayed into the packaging of the Savlon Hand Wash Powder by ITC. The product specifications entail utilizing 12 PET/ 30 PE WHITE for packaging, ensuring high-quality and reliable containment of the hand wash powder. This collaboration underscores UFlex’s commitment to providing innovative and effective packaging solutions for well-established brands.
Holography Business
HSF in lower gauge/ thickness – Textile grade/Graphic grade and cold foil:High gloss hot stamping foil (HSF) works great for precise applications and defined patterns in small areas. Cold foil, on the other hand, is the perfect product for large areas, such as moderate or full coverage of sheet labels, stickers and folding cartons etc. The USP of these products is their fine definition application and versatility of adhesion on various printed and lacquered surfaces at lower temperature ranges. This saves energy consumption during application. Also, this high-speed stamping foil helps users to have more productivity and save time as well as costs. Due to its lower thickness, these foils provide higher film volume thus higher coverage of the material compared to traditional products available in the market. Available in numerous colours, these competitive-cost products have created a new segment in the market that provides a win-win situation to the manufacturer/ producer and end user of the product.
Holographic Alu-Alu foil for pharma:The successful commercial launch of the product — the Holographic Alu-Alu Blister marks a substantial leap forward in raising industry benchmarks in pharmaceutical packaging solutions. The Holographic Alu-Alu Blister serves as a prominent manifestation of UFlex’s steadfast commitment to pushing the boundaries within the industry in terms of Brand Protection through covert features.The introduction of the Holographic Alu-Alu Blister has undeniably created an impact on the market. This product anticipates sustained growth as pharmaceutical companies increasingly recognize the inherent value of Anti-counterfeiting solutions. The company is resolute in their commitment to innovation, ensuring that it consistently meets and exceeds the evolving needs of its esteemed clients.
Printing Cylinders Business
This business continues to manufacture cylinders compatible with sustainable inks, particularly water-based inks.
Engineering Business
Double Head Coating-1650:The Engineering Business of UFlex has been rising to the occasion to meet the ever-increasing demand of the market including in-house. In the recent past, there has been an increase in the demand for coating machines. The engineering business designed and developed the coating machines to cover web widths ranging up to 2500mm. One such machine of 1650mm width with double head has been supplied recently. The objective of the machines is to apply coatings spread over a range of thicknesses and carriers also. To meet the huge demand, various types of coating methods have been incorporated namely; gravure coating, reverse gravure coating with a gap, reverse gravure coating with kiss and kiss coating with a smoothing bar. Further ceramic IR heaters are very well used as preheaters before the film enters the dryer hood. In the double head coating both the heads have been made considering various demands as the first head comprises 5 drying cabinets and the second has 8 drying cabinets. Necessary safety precautions have been duly taken care of by way of using the LEL system. Additional features include floor lifting unwind and rewind, sleeve-type impression rollers, and chamber doctor blades to name a few. Riding high on the features and with the support of Corona Treaters, the machine is capable of coating right from a very thin coating of 0.2 GSM to a thick coating of 6 GSM guaranteeing smooth and even coating across the film width adding value to the substrates.
Awards and Accreditations:
The UFlex Chemicals business has been awarded a certificate of Merit in the Dyes and Pigments Sector, by The Ministry of Power at the National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA)2023.
The R&D lab of the Packaging Films Business known as the Testing and Research Centre (TARC) has been accredited with ISO / IEC 17025: 2017 in accordance with the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
Patents and Copyrights:
The UFlex Packaging Films business has been granted a patent for its innovative research methodology to develop formable films, laminate structures, and related methods (Patent No.: 440790).
The UFlex Packaging Films business has been granted a patent for its innovative research methodology to develop high-barrier polyethylene terephthalate film (Patent No.: 363620).
The UFlex Packaging Films business has been granted a patent for a new innovative product, ‘Monolayer PET Blister Forming Film’ (Patent No.: 473335).
The UFlex Packaging Films business has been granted a patent for its innovative research methodology to develop formable films, laminate structures, and related methods (Patent No.: 482775).
The UFlex Aseptic Packaging business has been granted the patent for ‘An aseptic liquid packaging container’ (Patent No.:2022/13179).
The UFlex Engineering business has been granted copyright for ‘An ink trolley quick change over system for rotogravure printing machine station’ (Registration No.: A-148758/2023).
The UFlex Engineering business has been granted a copyright for the innovation of an ‘Improved collar type vertical form fill seal machine with an auto splicer’ (Registration No.: A-147882/2023).
The UFlex Engineering business has been granted copyright for an innovative product, ‘Continuous motion multi-track high-speed vertical form fill seal machine (Registration No.: A-147374/2023).
Rosler Uk To Showcase Broad Range Of Finishing Solutions At Mach 2024
Rösler UK is delighted to announce that it will be exhibiting on stand 6-540 at the upcoming MACH 2024 exhibition 15-19 April in Birmingham. Committed to driving innovation and creating value for UK manufacturers, Rösler is excited to show attendees an array of finishing solutions for traditionally produced and additively manufactured parts and components which represent best-in-class solutions for a range of industrial applications.
Expert in shot blasting and mass finishing technologies as well as bespoke post-processing solutions for Additive Manufacturing (AM), the company will be showing it RMBC 2.1 Tumble Belt Blast Machine, its R220EC Rotary Vibrator with R250 Dryer, and two AM post-processing solutions.
Colin Spellacy, Head of Sales at Rösler UK says, “Rösler has been a prominent player in the mass finishing and shot blasting arena for over 80 years, providing solutions across a range of industry sectors including technologies for exacting medical and aerospace applications. Our impressive track record isn’t just about our longevity, however, it’s a story of accumulating profound knowledge and expertise that only come with time served. What sets Rösler apart is its family ownership, which means the company is all about playing the long game, focusing on what really matters — building solid, lasting relationships with clients by truly understanding and evolving with their needs rather than focusing on short term financial gains. This customer-first, quality-obsessed approach has made Rösler a go-to ally for anyone looking for unmatched finishing precision, reliability, and quality. For often complex and demanding applications, Rösler stands as a beacon of trust, proving time and again that when it comes to mass finishing, shot blasting, and bespoke AM Solutions, we are here to lead the way and drive innovation.”
Rösler’s RMBC Tumble Belt Blast Machine which will be on display at MACH is essentially for de-sanding, descaling, de-rusting, deburring and creating homogeneous surface finishes, and is characterised by perfect cleaning of difficult-to-reach surface areas, high equipment uptime, high process stability, and consistent shot blasting results. The R220EC Rotary Vibrator, also on display, has an inbuilt separation system, is designed for processing batch parts, and is perfect for all metal finishing applications from deburring to polishing. Being shown alongside these traditional finishing machines, attendees will also find two AM post processing technologies, the M1 Basic and the S1 Wet. The M1 Basic promotes superior surface finish of metal or plastic AM parts in a cost-effective and repeatable fashion, and demonstrates how mass finishing technologies excel in eliminating layer lines, burrs, and other surface imperfections on AM parts, resulting in a flawless finish that enhances both aesthetics and functionality. The S1 Wet is a versatile wet-blasting solution for cleaning and finishing surfaces on metal and plastic parts and demonstrates perfectly the usefulness of shot blasting technologies for AM parts.
Spellacy continues, “We are excited to show attendees at MACH 2024 just what it is that sets our mass finishing and shot blasting technologies apart across all industry sectors.
For the UK market, as indeed globally, we offer an extensive sales and service support network offering local expertise and quick responses to customer needs, especially important for applications requiring timely project execution and rapid maintenance responses. Rösler is also truly vertically integrated, manufacturing all machines in-house without third-party components, and this guarantees the highest quality standards — essential in industries where precision is non-negotiable. Emphasising automated and turnkey solutions, Rösler caters to the modern demand for efficiency and precision, offering a comprehensive package from design to installation, ensuring minimal error and maximum throughput. As a one-stop-shop for machine and media supplies with a strong post-sale care focus, the company also simplifies procurement, providing ongoing value through maintenance and training, and fosters long-term partnerships, underscoring its commitment to reliable and long-lasting solutions for its customers.”
MACH 2024 visitors are invited to come and see Rösler’s traditional and AM finishing solutions on stand 6-540, and to discuss with the team how the company’s blend of advanced technical capabilities, extensive industry knowledge, and commitment to innovation can enhance their manufacturing endeavours.
Syensqo Launches Transfoamer Product Line, the Mining Industry’s First “Switchable” Frothers
The novel technology addresses persistent copper recovery challenges, supporting demand growth spurred by electrification
Princeton, February 14, 2024 – Syensqo, previously part of Solvay group, announces the launch of its Transfoamer product line, the first groundbreaking frother innovation in more than 65 years. Well suited for coarse particle recovery, Transfoamer frothers are based on a novel technology that changes froth strength in response to pH, leading to more efficient copper recovery from even the most challenging ores, a critical need as copper demand grows in response to electrification and the energy transition.
“As ore grades decline, many mining companies are grinding coarser particles to push tonnage or save energy,” says Ricardo Capanema, Global Marketing and Business Development Director, Mining Solutions at Syensqo. “Mines often use a blend of strong and weak frothers, which results in a steady froth but prevents the frother from performing at peak potential. Our new single-frother solution addresses this limitation and overfrothing issues common in the cleaner stage.”
Transfoamer frothers start as strong and robust frothers in the rougher circuit. Then, in response to pH, they “switch” to weaker frothers in the cleaner circuit, where less froth is needed. This unique property is particularly attractive for use in bulk copper and molybdenum flotation. For more challenging ore types, Transfoamer frothers can be further tailored with the Syensqo Cube connected dosing unit to optimize efficiency and recovery. Additionally, Transfoamer frothers do not build up or recirculate, which improves circuit stability.
Syensqo’s Transfoamer technology is already in use commercially in Latin America, where its ability to promote fast kinetics and mobility of value minerals has resulted in improvements to throughput, recovery and energy consumption. Transfoamer products are also available in North America as well as in parts of Asia-Pacific, and will be introduced in other regions as demand arises.
To learn more about Transfoamer frothers, visit Syensqo at booth 1109 during MINEXCHANGE, the 2024 SME Annual Conference and Expo, from February 25 to 28 in Phoenix, Arizona.
Significant step toward producing plastics based on plant biomass.
New process for petroleum-free raw material on its way to industrial maturity.
Another milestone in the promotion of the Circular Economy accomplished.
Covestro is moving forward with the implementation of a unique process for producing the important chemical aniline entirely based on plant biomass instead of petroleum for the first time. At its Leverkusen site, the plastics manufacturer has now put a special pilot plant into operation for this purpose. Initially, large quantities of bio-based aniline will be produced there, so that the new technology can be further developed for production and transferred to an industrial scale. In the plastics industry, aniline is used to produce MDI, among other things. This in turn is used for insulating foam, for example, which saves energy in buildings and reduces the CO2 footprint. Covestro believes it will contribute to the promotion of the Circular Economy, which the company is aiming to become fully aligned with.
In attendance at the opening ceremony were North-Rhine Westphalia’s Deputy Minister President Mona Neubaur as well as Professor Walter Leitner, Managing Director of the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion in Mülheim an der Ruhr. Together with Dr. Thorsten Dreier, Chief Technology Officer of Covestro, they discussed the significance of bio-based raw materials for a sustainable chemicals industry of the future.
“Among other things, aniline is a key raw material for foams used to insulate buildings and refrigerators,” explained Dreier, on the significance of the base chemical. “Until now, aniline has been produced from fossil raw materials such as petroleum, which releases CO2 and fuels climate change. With our new process, we are contributing to building up a circular, bio-based economy, and I am very proud that we have now succeeded in making the jump to the next technological level.”
Covestro developed the process, which has already won several awards, together with partners in the scientific community. Compared to conventional technology, the process leads to a greatly improved CO2 footprint of aniline. Covestro has made a seven-digit investment in the pilot plant at the Chempark Leverkusen.
“Sustainable innovations from North Rhine-Westphalia are making a decisive contribution to the transformation of Germany as a chemical location. The world’s first pilot plant for bio-based aniline is an impressive example of this,” emphasized Neubaur, who is also the State Minister for Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy. “In order for the industry to continue on its path towards a circular economy and climate neutrality, it needs planning and investment security above all. As the state government, we are therefore working hard to ensure that North Rhine-Westphalia remains an attractive business location and becomes the first climate-neutral industrial region in Europe.”
Professor Leitner also underlined the importance of partnerships. “The project illustrates the cooperation between research-based industry and application-oriented science. There are many intersecting partnerships like these, especially in NRW. Germany needs more of this in order to assert itself as a research and technology location.”
Use of biotechnology
The project also clearly showcases the potential contribution of the industrial (“white”) biotechnology to plastics production: in the new process, a customized microorganism helps convert an industrial sugar extracted from plants into an intermediate product through fermentation. This takes place under milder and thus more environmentally compatible conditions than in conventional processes. In a second step, chemical catalysis of the intermediate product then creates the aniline with one hundred percent plant-based carbon.
The research on bio-based aniline will also continue to be funded by the German government. The German Ministry for Food and Agriculture is funding a follow-up project (Bio4PURDemo) from Covestro and partners, which started in March 2022 and runs until 2025.
The RWTH Aachen with the CAT Catalytic Center and the University of Stuttgart, as well as the technology transfer initiative located there, are also participating in the project.
Around six million tons of aniline are currently produced worldwide, with the volume growing by approximately three to five percent per year on average. With a production capacity of more than one million tons per year, Covestro is one of the leading aniline producers.
Minister for Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and Deputy Prime Minister
Mona Neubaur
Mona Neubaur, born in Pöttmes in 1977, came to North Rhine-Westphalia from Bavaria in 1997 and quickly made herself at home in the Rhineland. After graduating with a degree in education in 2003, she first worked in the energy industry and then at the Heinrich Böll Foundation NRW, including four years as Managing Director.
From 2014 to 2022, she was state chairwoman of the Greens in North Rhine-Westphalia. In December 2021, Mona Neubaur was elected top candidate for the 2022 state elections. She has been a member of the North Rhine-Westphalian state parliament since May 15, 2022. On June 29, 2022, she was sworn in as Minister for Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy. At the same time, she was appointed by Minister President Hendrik Wüst as his deputy.
Managing Director Molecular Catalysis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion
Prof. Dr. Walter Leitner
Walter Leitner is Director at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion in Mülheim/Ruhr and Professor of Technical Chemistry and Petrochemistry at RWTH Aachen University. He is one of the initiators of the Catalysis Center CAT, a joint research facility of RWTH Aachen University and Covestro.
His research interests include catalysis, from its molecular foundations to reaction engineering concepts, in the context of “green chemistry”. The main focus of his scientific work is the development of novel catalysts and processes for the storage and use of renewable energy in the form of chemical energy carriers and products. His team’s basic research aims to use the “decarbonization” of energy generation to “defossilize” the chemical value chain.
Walter Leitner is the author and co-author of more than 400 scientific publications. He is co-speaker of the Cluster of Excellence “The Fuel Science Center” at RWTH Aachen University and of the BMBF-funded Kopernikus project “Power-to-X”. Together with Dr. Christoph Gürtler, Covestro AG, he was among the three finalists for the European Inventor Award (2021) and the Deutscher Zukunftspreis (2019) for his research on the use of CO2 as a raw material.
Chief Technology Officer and Labor Director Covestro AG
Dr. Thorsten Dreier
Dr. Thorsten Dreier has been a member of Covestro’s Board of Management as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) since July 2023 and the company’s Labor Director since September 2023. As the company’s Chief Technology Officer, he is responsible for the central functions Process Technology, Engineering, Group Health, Safety & Environment (Group HSE) and Group Procurement. He also coordinates the introduction of and compliance with global processes, standards and initiatives in Covestro’s production network.
Born in Münster in 1972, he studied chemistry and received his doctorate from the University of Münster in 2001. He began his career in 2002 as a laboratory manager in the Bayer Group and subsequently held various management positions at Bayer, Bayer Material Science and Bayer Technology Services. With the spin-off of Covestro, Dreier became Global Head of Production & Technology in the Coatings, Adhesives & Specialties business unit and later Global Head of the Specialty Films and Thermoplastic Polyurethanes businesses. Prior to his role on the Board of Management, he was Head of the Coatings & Adhesives business unit.