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Largest-Ever Gulfood 2024 Drives Transformation, With Global Food Futurists to Point Where the Industry Goes Next 

Largest-Ever Gulfood 2024 Drives Transformation, With Global Food Futurists to Point Where the Industry Goes Next

Largest edition in almost 3 decades, with 5,500+ global F&B companies confirmed to exhibit

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has announced that Gulfood, the largest annual food and beverage sourcing event in the world, will take place from 19-23 February 2024, as the future of the food industry comes into focus. Gulfood continues to be the gold standard event for the global F&B community, with a record 5,500+ exhibitors and visitors from over 190 countries, and with a footprint spanning 24 halls.

International policymakers and F&B industry leaders have their sights firmly fixed on global food systems, and how they can be transformed to feed an ever-growing global population, while simultaneously building resilience and mitigating the impacts of climate change, to avoid future crises. Innovations in ag-tech (a market set to almost double in size between now and 2030), the increasing use of AI in food production, reducing food loss and waste (which currently accounts for over a third of global food production), public-private partnerships, and investment in alternative proteins such as cultured meat can all help reduce food deprivation and feed the world through to 2050 and beyond.

“Gulfood will be the first opportunity in 2024 for the global F&B industry to convene, and gain insight from some of the world’s leading food futurists into where the global food industry goes next. Gulfood will be the only platform to identify the business opportunities and forge the business partnerships brought about as the industry enters a new era, defined by paradigm-shifting technology such as AI”, commented Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre.

“By accelerating innovation and speeding the spread of trends, technology has transformed the food market from end-to-end. The next decade will see this transformation continue. Technologies like AI will accelerate our understanding of human health, and influence consumer behaviour, and shifting demographic patterns will create new centres of cultural power. It’s a fascinating time to look to the future of food.” said Tom Cheesewright, Applied Futurist and Inspire Conference Speaker.

A SHOWCASE FOR REAL FOOD, A PLATFORM FOR REAL BUSINESS
Under the theme ‘Real Food, Real Business’, Gulfood 2024 will bring together global brands including: Agthia, Al Ain Dairy, Americana, Dilmah, Hype Beverages, Japan Farmed Fish Export Association, JBS, Lactalis, Meat & Poultry Ontario, Monin, Tilda, Wilmar – as well as thousands of new exhibitors – to showcase authentic food products, ingredients, and culinary practices, make real business connections and seal in excess of USD 12 billion in commercial deals. They will be joined by new country pavilions including: Armenia, Azerbaijan and Venezuela.

“Ghitha Holding, a subsidiary of International Holding Company PJSC (“IHC”), which owns 55 subsidiaries, 3 associates and 1 joint venture is thrilled to welcome the visitors and all business and government partners in the upcoming Gulfood 2024, as we see the region further boosting the economical trade between different verticals. As Gulfood is a place where F&B businesses innovate for a more brighter future, we are confident that Gulfood will be a fruitful place of collaboration and further business growth with focus on greater sustainability across the region”, commented Falal Ameen, CEO – Ghitha Holding.

BE INSPIRED BY F&B THOUGHT LEADERS

The Gulfood Inspire Conference will dive into a range of trending topics, including the tech-powered future of digitalisation, trailblazing innovations, the shift from linear to circular food systems, capitalising on investment and funding opportunities, and reimagining a global food system centred on food safety, security and transparency.

Over 200 ministers, global F&B leaders, entrepreneurs, futurists, chefs, scientists and academia from all facets of the industry will lead a series of engaging keynotes, panel discussions, fireside chats, showcases and workshops, providing insights into the future of the F&B industry and unlocking new opportunities for growth and competitiveness.

Confirmed speakers across the 5 days include: Gary Urteaga, Founder and President of Jenesiz Capital, and first investor in Nutrishake Andino (now Nutri.co), a foodtech startup specialising in R&D of nutritional snacks using Andean cereals and superfoods like quinoa and amaranth. CTO & Founding Director of Nourish Ingredients – Dr. Anna El Tahchy. Global Food Futurist & Food Scientist – Tony Hunter; Innovation Trends Futurist – Daniel Levine; Food Futurologist – Dr. Morgaine Gaye; Applied Futurist – Tom Cheesewright; Bill McDowell, VP of the Institute of Food Technologists; Dr. Miray Zaki, MD and Head of Sustainability Investments at Gulf Capital, Supply Chain Technology Expert – Erin Grover, Raymond Tham K W, Founder and MD of Mycrocell and many more.

MICHELIN STAR CHEFS MAKE DUBAI DEBUT IN WORLD’S LARGEST LIVE CHEF SHOWCASE
Popular feature Top Table returns to Gulfood 2024, with a star-studded line-up of internationally renowned chefs showcasing traditional cooking methods, elevating authentic ingredients, and revealing the stories behind the world’s most beloved dishes.

Across the five days of Gulfood, over 100 chefs will present various cuisines across a series of masterclasses and chef talks. Top names participating in the programme include: Chef Alain Passard of L’Arpege, Chef Enrico Cerea of da Vittorio, Chef Joan Roca of El Celler de Can Roca, Chef Begona Rodrigo of La Salita, chef Mark Donald of The Glenturret and chef Pepe Solla of Sola restaurant. Home-grown talent includes: Chef Akira Back of Akira Back in Dubai, and Chef Vladimir Mukhin of White Rabbit Krasota in Dubai. This year’s theme highlights the union of heritage and traditional culinary practices with modern, trendsetting innovative techniques. For the first time ever, Top Table will host chefs with over 21 Michelin stars between them, in one exceptional live culinary showcase.

The Dubai World Cuisine movement, launched during the last edition of Gulfood, will also be back, with a series of city-wide dinner collaborations. Dubai World Cuisine provides a platform for homegrown chefs to collaborate harmoniously with culinary icons from around the world, shaping the cultural identity of Dubai and helping establish it on the world’s culinary map. Bringing exceptional talents from Europe, that will impart their legacy, heritage, and cultural richness through ancient and traditional cooking techniques, seamlessly merging them with modern and innovative approaches. Our aim is to bridge between the old and the new world, embracing sustainability in its culinary practices.

WATCH THE CULINARY STARS OF THE FUTURE

The YouthX Chef Challenge, a launchpad for empowering promising F&B talent with a career-changing experience, will also be back in an expanded, international format for its third edition at Gulfood 2024. The international grand finale of the third edition of the YouthX Challenge will pit teams from leading restaurants and hotels in the UAE (SLS and Atlantis The Palm), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Four Seasons Riyadh), Kenya, and the USA against each other for a chance to win an internship at an international 3-Michelin star restaurant. Last year’s winners recently completed a successful internship with Chef Heinz Beck at La Pergola in Rome.

Gulfood has garnered interest from top brands in Dairy, Beverage (category sponsor – Al Jameel Intl.), Fats & Oils, Pulses & Grains (category sponsor – Supple Tek), Meat & Poultry (category sponsor – Sadia), Power Brands (category sponsor – Ghitha), Ready-To-Eat (category sponsor – Hungritos), Bakery (category sponsor – Prima International), and World Food, to innovate for a more sustainable, thoughtful, and brighter future for the entire global F&B ecosystem across the world.

*Tickets for Gulfood are currently on sale at a special offer rate of AED 345 for a 5-day pass (instead of regular full price of AED 595) for a limited period only.

www.gulfood.com

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New Study Reveals That The Majority Of Senior Executives In The Fashion Industry Are Committed To Abolishing Plastic

New Study Reveals That The Majority Of Senior Executives In The Fashion Industry Are Committed To Abolishing Plastic 

A new study1 with 100 senior executives who work for fashion brands and retailers in the UK, US and Australia, by Aquapak Polymers Ltd, which specialises in polymer-based material technologies that can deliver both performance and environmental responsibility at scale, reveals that the majority (88%) plan to stop plastic in packaging altogether.  Some 8% are planning to abolish plastic within the next 12 months, 14% within one to two years, 19% within two to three years, 30% within three to four years and 28% within four to five years.

Almost half (48%) said that they are extremely concerned about their business’ use of polybags such as carrier and garment bags, the majority of which are used for merchandise bought on-line, and the damage they cause to the environment.  According to global innovation platform Fashion for Good, the fashion industry uses around 180 billion polybags every year.

The report showed that plastic use ranked third in the top factors impacting the environmental performance of their business, with only the energy efficiency of operations and the sourcing of merchandise which uses sustainable materials rated more important. 

The research also showed that of the steps taken to reduce the amount of plastic packaging used, 77% have folded items differently, 59% have removed unnecessary types of packaging and 46% have changed the packaging type.

To help reduce plastic packaging pollution Aquapak has developed Hydropol™, a unique new polymer which is soluble and non-toxic to marine life. Hydropol™can be used as an alternative to conventional plastic in a wide variety of applications as it provides the same functionality and performance but without the associated environmental problems.  It is currently used to make products such as garment bags, offering all the necessary features of traditional polybags: strength and puncture resistance; clarity of film; and protection from leakages and dirt. 

Crucially, Hydropol garment bags present zero end-of-life issues for consumers and brands. They can be disposed of in existing domestic waste streams without contaminating other recyclable products or they can be dissolved immediately in hot water at home without producing harmful micro-plastics. They are also compostable, and degrade harmlessly on land or in the ocean. 

Mark Lapping, CEO of Aquapak, comments: “Our study shows that there is a commitment at the highest level in the fashion industry to stop using plastic.  Brands and retailers are already taking steps to reduce their dependency on plastic packaging, but the pace of change could be much faster.  New materials exist which perform in exactly the same way as plastic, providing garment and merchandise protection but do not have any of the environmental problems associated with it. 

Aquapak is already working with several early-adopter fashion companies who are determined to drive a significant change in their industry by embracing upstream innovation in packaging. 

www.aquapakpolymers.com

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First-Ever Skateboard Half Pipe Successfully Built From Containerboard To Highlight Material Values

First-Ever Skateboard Half Pipe Successfully Built From Containerboard To Highlight Material Values 

Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging and paper, proudly unveils a fresh initiative to highlight the values of its containerboard materials that we use in our everyday lives. In partnership with Olympian skateboarder Julia Brückler, Mondi challenges myths around making paper through a fusion of innovation, sustainability and athleticism. 

The challenge was to build the first-ever skateboard half pipe from containerboard, the paper used in corrugated packaging. Why? Because it’s a fresh, analogous way of showing how containerboard is an ideal material that we rely on every day, and we are constantly on the lookout for the next generation of people who are passionate about paper. 

Unique collaboration: Olympian Julia Brückler takes the first ride

Julia’s passion for skateboarding aligns with Mondi’s commitment to excellence and, like the sport’s resilience, this project mirrors the meticulous processes of perfecting paper grades.

Professional skateboarder Julia Brückler, who debuted at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, shares her excitement: “This was such a unique experience! It made me realise that we often take paper items used in our day-to-day lives for granted, not thinking about where they’re coming from or how they’re made. Discovering the details of paper packaging and how durable and strong the material can be during this project was eye-opening!”

Attracting the next generation of talent by explaining the values of paper packaging

At Mondi, our focus is on circular-driven solutions created by empowered people who are taking action on climate. We offer an environment where creativity and purpose converge – a workplace that continually pushes the boundaries of what’s possible. 

We have several world-leading containerboard paper mills with expert teams who make our containerboard product range. This containerboard paper is used to create corrugated solutions with nature-like strength and resilience. 

Markus Gärtner, CEO Corrugated Packaging at Mondi, comments, “This initiative is about inspiring people to see the value of our containerboard paper grades through a fresh perspective. Partnering with Olympian Julia Brückler was a great experience and it embodies our commitment to innovation, excellence and enjoying new challenges! Get in touch with us if you are looking for sustainable packaging solutions or a career full of potential.”

 

www.mondigroup.com

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Indonesia’s Packaging and Automotive Sectors Spur Demand for Plastics

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Indonesia’s Packaging and Automotive Sectors Spur Demand for Plastics

The industrial sector of Indonesia has been contributing to its overall economic growth, regardless of the upward momentum of its production in terms of volume and value in the past few years. Government incentives to investors, favorable business environment, significant improvement in technologies and skilled manpower are among the factors that encourage the expansion of industrial sector. In particular, the plastics industry in Indonesia is exhibiting sustained growth in the next few years owing to rising demand spurred by increase in consumer expenditure.

Indonesia’s huge population of 277 million has become an attractive consumer market with huge demand for consumer products.

 

With its huge population of 277 million, Indonesia has become an attractive consumer market and given the fast-paced changing lifestyles of buyers with higher disposable income, manufacturers are focused on meeting the requirements by building their production capabilities. Indonesia’s plastics market size was valued at US$8.63 billion in 2022 and is likely to each US$ 14.58 billion by 2031, expanding at a CAGR of 6% during the forecast period 2023–2031, according to the projection by Growth Market Reports. Several important industries are crucial to Indonesia’s plastics industry – packaging, automotive and medical are experiencing rapid development.

Packaging sector takes major leaps towards circular economy

Indonesia’s packaging industry remains the major application of plastics. A report of Global Data states that the country’s packaging market size, valued at 151.3 billion units in 2022, is poised to register a CAGR of more than 3% during the period 2022-2027 with flexible packaging segment dominatingthe market share until 2027.

From a linear model, Indonesia’s packaging industry is fast moving towards a circular economy. This has been made more pronounced by the investments of leading companies into areas that will reduce, recycle and re-use plastics. As an economy battling huge plastic waste stockpile reaching 18.99 million tons per year based on Environment and Forestry Ministry data, Indonesia has placed circular economy as its main focus by implementing Golden Indonesia Vision 2045 which is the long-term national development plan. Thus, the utilization of recycled materials has become the goal of many Indonesian companies that plan to go through the route of circular economy route. This has brought huge opportunities to companies supplying advanced recycling solutions and sustainable materials. This has also opened new horizons to both Indonesian and foreign companies operating in Indonesia that a number of significant ventures into plastics manufacturing has been launched in the country’s various industrial centers.

Recycling factory of the Amandina Bumi Nusantara, a joint venture between Coca-Cola Europacific Partner and Dynapack Asia.

 

Coca-Cola in Indonesia has launched its new packaging made by 100% recycled PET (rPET), excluding caps and labels, in line with the vision of World Without Waste. Coca-Cola operates a recycling plant, Amandina Bumi Nusantara, located in Cikarang. The recycling plant, with capacity of 25,000 tons of PET per year, is a partnership between Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Indonesia and Dynapack Asia.  The production of bottles with 100% rPET content aims to accelerate the goal of reducing the use of conventional plastics and lowering carbon emissions.

Another development is the signing of the partnership agreement between Indonesian plastic recycler, Pan Era Group, and Milliken & Company which represents another milestone in the industry. The partnership combines Pan Era Group’s expertise in the collection and production of recycled PP plastic resin with Milliken’s additive technology solutions. Pan Era Group and Milliken will collaborate to promote a circular economy in Indonesia by utilizing Pan Era Group’s extensive local collection network to collect plastic waste and coupled with Milliken’s material science technology to produce recycled polypropylene resin. Further, this collaboration aims to improve the performance of transparent recycled PP resin and increase its market presence.

Coca-Cola Indonesia launched new packaging made by 100% recycled PET (rPET), excluding caps and labels, in line with its vision of World Without Waste.

 

Investments in materials for the packaging industry continue to pour into Indonesia, stressing its major role in the ASEAN region’s broad consumer market. BASF invested in the capacity expansion of polymer dispersions at its production site in Merak, Indonesia. The expansion is in line with the growing trend of high-quality packaging in ASEAN. It aims to bringing additional supply to fulfill the growing demand for acrylics and styrene-butadiene dispersions in the Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand markets. With proximity to the supply of key raw materials and the flexibility of producing both acrylic and styrene-butadiene dispersions, Merak is a crucial supply point to ensure stable production of paper coatings.

CJ BIO, a division of South Korea-based CJ CheilJedang, is now manufacturing polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) at its facility located in Pasuruan, Indonesia. CJ BIO uses its facility to enter the biomaterials sector with the goal of creating opportunities to reduce the impact of manufactured plastics on the environment. The facility has a rated capacity of 5,000 metric tons and focuses exclusively on manufacturing ‘amorphous’ PHAs (a-PHAs). Amorphous PHA is a softer, more rubbery (low glass transition temperature (Tg)) version of PHA that offers fundamentally different performance opportunities from crystalline or semi-crystalline forms of PHA. This material will impose immediate use as a modifier to other polymers and biopolymers to improve functional characteristics and biodegradability, enabling ‘cradle-to-grave’ solutions for the broad range of markets that generate plastic waste.

A bird’s-eye view of the battery system factory currently being built by Hyundai Mobis in Indonesia.

 

E-mobility trend spurs automotive production

Indonesia has gained the importance as an automotive center in the region with a growing number of companies engaged in this sector that are setting up their operations in the country. The country’s automotive companies are increasingly becoming focused on launching electric vehicles, and along with meeting trends such as lightweighting and enhanced safety and autonomy, bringing the dramatic demand for automotive plastics. Engineering plastics for the automotive industry are predominantly imported, but an increasing number of local manufacturers are improving their portfolio through partnership with foreign companies. It has been estimated that Indonesia’s automotive industry players will need around 200,000 tons of plastics yearly with less than half supplied by domestic companies.

The bright prospects for plastics in Indonesia’s automotive will be sustained by major foreign and domestics players. Leading automotive manufacturers with production facilities in Indonesia include Hyundai, Isuzu, Toyota, Daihatsu, Honda, Chery Motor, Wuling Motors and others. Local car manufacturers include Esemka, Fin Komodo, Tawon, Marlip, etc. Investments into Indonesia’s automotive industry have been on the rise, attracted by the large consumer base and excellent infrastructure.

EVs will dominate innovations as seen by focus of manufacturers. PT Neta Auto Indonesia (NAI), which introduced the Chinese-made Neta V electric car, announced its plan to build an assembly plant in Indonesia with local company PT Handal Indonesia Motor. The plan is to have Neta V model locally assembled in Indonesia in the form of completely knocked down (CKD). Another car manufacturer, Wuling Motors Indonesia launched the Wuling Bingo EV, its second electric vehicle (EV) model after the Air EV. The Bingo model is offered in two variants in Indonesia. Wuling Indonesia earlier unveiled its first EV, the Air EV as part of its bid to be a leading new energy automobile company worldwide. The first global launch of this model was held in Indonesia. Aside from Wuling, there are other Chinese EV manufacturers that expressed their interest to produce their models in Indonesia seeing the favorable policy of the government on EVs. The Indonesian government has set a target of the production of 600,000 electric vehicles by 2030.

Hyundai Mobis has also constructed an EV battery system plant in Indonesia. The company, which is part of the Hyundai Motor Group, is investing around US$60 million. Battery cells are secured from the local joint venture, HLI Green Power, and the finished battery system as a module will be supplied to the Hyundai Motor plant.

At CHINAPLAS 2024

Indonesian plastics manufacturers will witness a full range of new materials and high-tech processes to enable them to further enhance their production efficiency and profitability in the wake of fast-changing consumer preferences. The mega exhibition highlights the most advanced packaging technologies and environmental friendly materials to support the move towards a circular economy. A broad range of machinery, equipment and engineering plastics is also on exhibit to promote the development of the automotive industry.

www.ChinaplasOnline.com

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Covestro And Siemens Conclude Strategic Supplier Agreement

Covestro And Siemens Conclude Strategic Supplier Agreement 

  • Agreement simplifies cooperation between the companies
  • Framework for all business relationships over the next five years
  • Includes Siemens’ full range of services as a supplier to Covestro

Covestro and Siemens have concluded a strategic supplier agreement for the next five years. This framework agreement is the basis for all future business relationships that exist between the two companies in many different areas. The agreement is worth a high double-digit million euro amount and enables much faster and easier collaboration.

Until now, Covestro and Siemens have always concluded individual supply agreements for different material groups and services. The new structure now provides a general framework and serves as the basis for all future contracts and agreements between the companies. It covers the full range of Siemens’ offering, from the purchase of materials to the supply of complex solutions, for which Siemens will be involved in the early stages of project development at Covestro.

“With this agreement, we are strengthening our trusting partnership and can now work together even more closely and efficiently,” says Thorsten Dreier, Chief Technology Officer at Covestro. “This step makes it clear that we will continue to rely on our partnership with Siemens in the future. Siemens has proven to be a reliable supplier in many projects over the many years of cooperation and therefore we want to continue to work together with Siemens in the future to drive the transformation of the chemical industry towards climate-neutral production and a circular economy.”

Axel Lorenz, CEO Process Automation at Siemens, says: “We are very pleased to continue our successful path together with Covestro. In recent years, we have greatly expanded our portfolio for the chemical industry. At the same time, the challenges for sustainable production in the industry have grown significantly. The new agreement takes this development into account and offers a very good basis for implementing innovative ideas together even more easily in the future.”

About Siemens:

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a leading technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare. From more resource-efficient factories, resilient supply chains, and smarter buildings and grids, to cleaner and more comfortable transportation as well as advanced healthcare, the company creates technology with purpose adding real value for customers. By combining the real and the digital worlds, Siemens empowers its customers to transform their industries and markets, helping them to transform the everyday for billions of people. Siemens also owns a majority stake in the publicly listed company Siemens Healthineers, a globally leading medical technology provider shaping the future of healthcare.

In fiscal 2023, which ended on September 30, 2023, the Siemens Group generated revenue of €77.8 billion and net income of €8.5 billion. As of September 30, 2023, the company employed around 320,000 people worldwide.

www.siemens.com.

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The Rise Of Automation In Metal Am Post-Processing — Transforming The Industry With Precision And Efficiency

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The Rise Of Automation In Metal Am Post-Processing — Transforming The Industry With Precision And Efficiency 

Across the continually evolving manufacturing landscape, the integration of automation solutions continues to move quickly. For metal Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes the same is true. However, the post processing of metal parts, which is critical for successful outcomes, has been largely overlooked causing serious bottlenecks in the process chain — until now. The automation of post processing heralds a significant increase in efficiency and precision, reshaping how industries approach production using AM. Metal AM has been a game-changer in producing complex parts and components but without automated solutions the post processing of these complex parts involves heavy manual, labour-intensive, and time-consuming tasks. Below, we delve into how automation in metal AM post processing is setting a new industry standard, and how companies like Rivelin Robotics are leading this change with their Netshape® Robots to unlock new productivity and efficiency gains.

The Current State of Metal AM Post-Processing

The conventional approach to metal AM post-processing is a multi-stage process that demands meticulous attention to detail and a highly skilled, steady hand. 

The process begins with the essential removal of support structures that are necessary during the printing phase but become redundant thereafter. These supports must be eliminated without compromising the integrity of the core component, which is no mean feat. Once the supports are detached, the surface finishing phase commences, where the objective is to achieve the desired surface smoothness and texture. This could involve a variety of techniques, from sanding and polishing to more advanced chemical or laser-based methods. Following this, heat treatments are often required to relieve stresses within the material and improve its mechanical properties, ensuring that the part will perform reliably in its intended application. Last but not least, rigorous quality inspections are conducted to validate the precision and reliability of the final product. 

Each step in this process not only requires a high degree of technical skill but also introduces opportunities for human error, potentially leading to variations in quality and performance of the final parts.

The labour-intensive nature of conventional, manual metal AM post-processing is a bottleneck that inflates production times and escalates costs, often negating the benefits of utilising AM solutions. Skilled technicians must navigate the delicate balance between speed and precision, which can result in a trade-off between throughput and quality. The reliance on manual techniques for tasks such as support removal and surface finishing means that each component’s post-processing time is variable and often lengthy. Additionally, the manual handling of parts through these stages increases the risk of accidental damage or contamination, potentially leading to increased rejection rates and wasted materials. 

The cumulative effect of these factors is inconsistent final product quality, which can undermine the reliability of metal AM parts and limit their acceptance in critical applications where consistent performance is a must.

The Emergence of Automation in Post-Processing

Automated post-processing solutions have the potential to usher in a transformative era for production applications of metal AM. Advanced robotics, coupled with artificial intelligence (AI) are at the forefront of this new era. Such robotic systems can be engineered to execute support removal with remarkable dexterity, avoiding damage to intricate parts. Surface smoothing, too, is refined by these intelligent machines, which can adaptively polish and perfect surfaces to meet exact specifications. Furthermore, automated inspection systems employ sophisticated algorithms to detect imperfections with a level of accuracy far beyond the capability of the human eye. This shift to automation plays directly to the need for quality and consistency, ensuring that every product meets a set standard before it leaves the production floor.

The move towards automation in metal AM post-processing is not just about maintaining quality, it also enables a strategic approach to streamlining the entire manufacturing process chain. By deploying automated systems for these critical tasks, manufacturers can achieve significant reductions in cycle times, dramatically decreasing the duration from printing to product completion. Importantly, this increase in speed does not come at the expense of quality. On the contrary, it often enhances it, delivering consistently high-quality parts while simultaneously reducing costs. As a result, the investment in automation technology pays dividends in both the short and long term. In a market where competition is fierce and margins are tight, the ability to produce superior products efficiently and economically is not just advantageous — it can be seen as essential for survival.

The Upside of Automation

The key to automation in metal AM post-processing isn’t only about ground-breaking technology, it’s about the profound impact it has on the way we create and innovate. 

It’s a game-changer in efficiency, as automated systems don’t tire like we do, they keep going, bringing products from concept to reality at a pace that sets new standards. This means businesses can respond to market demands with agility, delivering new innovations to consumers speedily. It’s not just about being fast, though, it’s also about being smart. The costs saved on labour, the reduction in errors, these aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet. They are potentially the difference between thriving and just surviving in a competitive market.

With the advanced sensors and controls of today’s automated systems, tasks are executed with an exactitude that human hands might find challenging to replicate, especially at scale. And then there’s consistency, the assurance that every part, every component meets the same gold standard of quality, every single time.

And we must not forget the human side of things. Automation in metal AM post processing isn’t just about protecting the bottom line, it’s about protecting the people who make things happen. By taking on tasks that involve sharp tools and fine particles, automated systems shield workers from potential hazards, making the workplace a safer environment for all.

And as we look to the future, to a world where sustainability is not just “nice-to-have” but essential, automation steps up. It’s a steward of resources, minimising waste and optimising the use of materials, contributing to a greener, more sustainable manufacturing landscape. Companies stepping into the realm of automated post-processing are not just keeping up with the times, they are driving forward, setting the pace for a new era of production that is as much about speed and cost as it is about smarts and sustainability.

As machines take on the repetitive, the workforce is evolving too. The value now lies in the skilled handling of these sophisticated systems — in the programming, maintenance, and quality control that keep them working properly. This evolution is more than just about keeping up, it’s about redefining roles and preparing for a future where technology and human ingenuity work hand in hand.

In the area of automated metal AM post processing, we’re not just building better products we are also building a better way of working, a safer and more sustainable industry, and thus, a brighter, more innovative future.

Rivelin Robotics and the Future of Metal AM Post-Processing

A key player in this transformative journey is Rivelin Robotics, which develops innovative solutions for automated post processing of metal parts. Rivelin’s Netshape Robots are designed to seamlessly integrate into existing metal AM workflows, offering an advanced level of automation.

Netshape Robots are a testament to the potential of automation in revolutionising metal AM post processing. These robots are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to perform various post-processing tasks with remarkable precision and efficiency. By incorporating these robots, companies can significantly reduce manual labour, enhance the consistency of their products, and lower production costs.

Rivelin Robotics’ vision extends beyond the immediate benefits of automation. The company is committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in metal AM post processing. Its focus on continuous innovation and improvement is aligned with the industry’s growing demand for smarter, faster, and more reliable manufacturing solutions.

www.rivelinrobotics.com

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Asahi Kasei Europe Joins Plastics Europe Germany

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Asahi Kasei Europe Joins Plastics Europe Germany 

Asahi Kasei Europe joined Plastics Europe Germany, the  leading association of plastics producers in Germany, in December 2023.

Since its foundation in 2016 as the European headquarters of the Japanese technology group Asahi  Kasei, Asahi Kasei Europe has been developing and marketing engineering plastics and fibers, particle  foams and other functional materials for the automotive industry and other areas of application. The  location is also an innovation hub for the Asahi Kasei Group companies in Europe.  

To further foster the relationship with the European plastics industry, Asahi Kasei Europe joined Plas tics Europe Germany in December 2023. “As a chemical company and plastics producer, Asahi Kasei  has a responsibility to contribute to a more sustainable society. This requires new technical develop ments, but also cooperation and an open exchange with other companies. We are proud to be able to  make our contribution to the ecosystem in the innovation driver Europe through our membership in Plastics Europe Germany,” comments Martin Aeschlimann, General Manager Engineering Plastics at  Asahi Kasei Europe. 

Expertise from A to Z 

As a highly diversified company, Asahi Kasei offers solutions along the entire material cycle – from the  production of hydrogen as an alternative energy source, bio-based base chemicals and materials, to  new innovative recycling technologies for polyamide 66 and carbon fiber composites. The Group is  committing itself to become carbon neutral by 2050. 

„It is a pleasure to welcome Asahi Kasei Europe at Plastics Europe! In 2002, Asahi Kasei developed  the world’s first manufacturing method that uses CO2 as raw material for the production of polycar bonate. Today, 15% of the global polycarbonate production uses this production technology. From my  point of view, Asahi Kasei can serve as a a driver for the development of products and product grades  to open up new businesses and application areas for the European market”, comments Ingemar Bühler,  Executive Director, Plastics Europe Germany. 

About Plastics Europe 

Plastics Europe is the pan-European association of plastics manufacturers with offices across Europe.  For over 100 years, science and innovation has been the DNA that cuts across the plastics industry.  With close to 100 members producing over 90% of all polymers across Europe, Plastics Europe is the  catalyst for the industry with a responsibility to openly engage with stakeholders and deliver solutions  which are safe, circular and sustainable. 

About Asahi Kasei 

The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its founding in  1922 with ammonia and cellulose fiber businesses, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the  proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more  than 48,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to a sustainable society by providing  solutions to the world’s challenges through its three business sectors of Material, Homes, and Health  Care. Its Material sector, comprised of Environmental Solutions, Mobility & Industrial, and Life  Innovation, includes a wide array of products from battery separators and biodegradable textiles to  engineering plastics and sound solutions.

www.asahi-kasei.com/ 

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Zygo Announces Launch Of New Qualifire Laser Interferometer

Zygo Announces Launch Of New Qualifire Laser Interferometer 

Zygo Corporation, a business unit of AMETEK, Inc. (NYSE: AME), announces the release of its newest laser interferometer, Qualifire. Qualifire joins an extensive array of top-end interferometer solutions.  This instrument is designed to support and enable the most demanding metrology applications in industries such as semiconductor, lithography, space-borne imaging systems, cutting-edge consumer electronics, defense. Qualifire debuts at SPIE Photonics West in San Francisco, California on January 30. This interferometer packs significant enhancements and features into a small lighter-weight package without sacrificing performance.  

 

Erin McDonnell, Product Manager, Laser Interferometers at Zygo says, “We are excited to introduce the Qualifire to market. Its improved ergonomics make it easy-to-use, and it is more portable than many of Zygo’s other laser interferometers. Measurements made with laser interferometers tend to be sensitive to noise, contaminants, and other artifacts because of the instrument’s ability to provide nanometer-level precision. An optional module available on the Qualifire, Flying Spot, actively reduces or even eliminates these artifacts, thus enhancing the reliability and repeatability of measurements. Flying Spot combines two of Zygo’s best artifact reduction technologies: Ring of Fire and Coherent Artifact Reduction. Flying Spot is particularly valuable in applications requiring high precision, including scientific research and advanced manufacturing processes.”

Qualifire brings these features and improvements to Zygo’s laser interferometer product line:

  • Smart Accessory Interface—the interferometer can recognize any “smart accessory” installed and automatically apply a system error file and perform lateral calibration.
  • Small, Lightweight Footprint—the smallest model of Qualifire weighs approximately 45 lbs (20.4 kgs).  It is truly portable, especially for complex and delicate applications in which the interferometer must be moved or adjusted frequently.
  • Integrated Phase Measuring Receptacle (PMR)—the PMR is necessary for modulating interference fringes between the test part and reference optic which ultimately creates a quantitative surface map. Its integral design provides:
    •  Overall mechanical stability and alignment
    • Reduces the risk of damage or misalignment
    • Ensures consistent performance, reducing the need for recalibration
  • Improved User Experience—conveniently accessible power button and kinematic mounting feet make setup easier to use. Large control knobs allow for more accurate adjustments—critical to both alignment and calibration.  Integrated handles ensure safe and secure handling.
  • Easier service—the sealed optical system and consolidated electronics makes swapping out various components straightforward without exposing the optics to contaminants.
  • Flying Spot—an optional module for artifact reduction that includes the autofocus feature.
  • Stable Zoom—an option providing a new zoom method which makes perfect image registration possible and diffraction limited image sampling at all magnifications. 

Kurt Redlitz, DVP, Metrology Group says, “The Qualifire maintains Zygo’s high standards in metrology while delivering the highest level of precision and optimizing user experience. With improved ergonomics, it provides increased efficiency in operation and flexibility in deployment without sacrificing performance. Qualifire is a more robust, reliable, and user-friendly instrument, ready to handle the most demanding applications and environment—where precision is non-negotiable.”

www.zygo.com

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FMI’ Analyst view: “Your Brand, Your Box: Navigating the Landscape of Personalized Packaging”

FMI’ Analyst view: “Your Brand, Your Box: Navigating the Landscape of Personalized Packaging”

The personalized packaging market is projected to have a significant CAGR of 5.28% by 2033. According to FMI, the market is expected to expand from US$ 36.10 billion in 2023 to US$ 60.39 billion by 2033. Historically, the market showed significant growth, with a CAGR of 6.6% from 2018 to 2022.

Demand for personalized packaging has expanded as a result of the tremendous applications from different industries. For the purpose of improving the consumer impression of their brand, manufacturers are utilizing personalized packaging frequently.

The secondary packaging of goods or businesses is routinely updated to give them a unique personality in the marketplace. Even if major organizations have already established notable trends through innovative packaging solutions, emerging businesses are expected to respond to shifting trends in the global market for customizable packaging.

Recent Campaigns in the Personalized Packaging Market:

·   Mondelez tapped into customer creativity with its 2015 Oreo Colorfilled campaign, by enabling the cookie packets to be customized for Christmas gift-giving online or with a kit provided for at-home use. Furthermore, as it was the first time the products had ever been given directly to customers, the brand had the opportunity to integrate itself into its daily life with customized on-package messaging.

·     In 2017, Ferrero’s Nutella Unica campaign, which translates to Unique Nutella in Italian, was a tremendous success for the company. It involved the release of a limited-edition run of 7 million Nutella jars in that country. Customers flocked to the unique collection in droves, and it was fully sold out in a month.

The personalized packaging market share is likely to be benefiting from the rising demand for luxury packaging, which is especially evident in the APAC region. Manufacturers in the region are expanding their capabilities and production capacity to strengthen their position in the steadily expanding market.

The rise in worldwide e-retail usage over the past 10 years has also contributed to the surging opportunities in the personalized packaging market. The usage of bottled water is increasing globally, which may offer a variety of possibilities, whereas the use of carbonated beverages has dropped over the previous few years.

These ongoing personalization packaging projects are likely to serve as a model for other companies looking to differentiate themselves from the competition. Personalized packaging manufacturers come up with creative and innovative ways to incorporate personalization, as long as doing so increases sales and appeals to customers.

Why is Personalized Packaging a Hot Trend in the Industry Lately?

·   Increased Demand in Electronic Companies

Electronic companies use distinctive packaging designs for their products, in order to entice and keep customers throughout the buying process and ensure good product quality.

Mobile enterprises need individualized packaging that is strong, tamper-evident, and very secure. Customer brands, from those in fast-moving consumer goods to those at the forefront of high-end luxury items, are pulling the levers of personalized packaging.

·   Branding Campaigns

As businesses become slightly more cognizant of consumers’ thoughts as a result of branding campaigns, the demand for personalized packaging is likely to grow. The beverage and food industries have shown the strongest inclinations toward personalization packaging.

·     Check up on the Manufacturing Costs

Personalized packaging may improve brand awareness and help companies interact with their customers, but new designs need a lot more time and effort from companies, which may drive up manufacturing costs. For this, determining the optimal package design and marketing approach requires a significant investment of marketing resources.

·   Up to Date Trends

Personalized packaging campaigns that are unsuccessful with customers can be time- and money-consuming, as well as detrimental to corporate profitability. Businesses must also stay up to date on the most recent personalized packaging trends to avoid printing outdated or obsolete packaging.

Regional Analysis

Key Manufacturers in the USA Take Technology into Account to have the Best Personalized Packaging Solutions

In North America, the market for personalized packaging is anticipated to be dominated by the USA. This can be linked to the rising demand for personalized packaging options in the food and beverage sector, as well as the accessibility of cutting-edge packaging materials and technologies in the nation.

With a CAGR of 5.5%, the market for personalized packaging in North America is anticipated to expand significantly during the forecast period. The adoption of personalized packaging is anticipated to rise in North America as a result of rising disposable income.

Additionally, it is anticipated that the presence of top manufacturers in the area is likely to assist the expansion of the USA market.

Why United Kingdom Demand for Personalized Packaging is Relevant for Overall Growth?

The United Kingdom market for personalized packaging is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period. This growth can be related to the increasing consumer buying power, the rising utilization of digital printing technology for packaging, and the rising need for appealing packaging designs for product promotion.

Moreover, the United Kingdom market for customized packaging has expanded as a result of the expansion of the e-commerce sector.

Medium-sized Business holds King Market Share in the Asia-Pacific Region

The desire for personalized packaging solutions is being fueled by the country’s growing e-commerce industry, which needs specialized packaging to set its items apart from its competitors. This trend is accelerated by the expanding usage of packaging technology, such as virtual reality and 3D printing, to produce distinctive and eye-catching containers.

Moreover, the desire for more appealing packaging to be supplied with orders is also increasing due to the growing popularity of online shopping, which is further boosting the market expansion for customized packaging in China.

The market is expanding as a result of the rising demand for personalized packaging. These packaging solutions give the product a distinctive appearance and aid in building a solid brand identity. The rise of small and medium-sized personalized packaging enterprises also contributes to the APAC industry’s expansion.

Competitive Landscape

Manufacturers of personalized packaging contact customers personally, which promotes strategic planning and creative packaging solutions.

The personalized packaging trend has been embraced by numerous businesses across numerous industrial sectors in an effort to profit from it. The value of strategic packaging is one of the alluring customer value propositions that organizations have been seeking to leverage for distinctive positioning.

Moreover, customer interactions only become more delicate over time, given the intense competition that customized packaging creates. The unquenchable desire to interact personally with businesses is one of the key factors propelling development for industry participants in personalized packaging.

For instance, to expand its custom packaging business, Packhelp raised $45.6 million in investment in November 2021. Due to the rise of e-commerce and on-demand delivery, Packhelp has grown into a company that assists even the tiniest businesses in wrapping their products in eye-catching custom packaging and counting giants like H&M and Uber Eat among its clients.

The usage of linked packaging to reach clients from a digital marketing perspective has presented a wonderful innovation potential for the leading players in the personalized packaging industry.

Moreover, personalized packaging with NFC- and RFID-enabled tags is anticipated to be the next generation of intelligent packaging due to its anti-counterfeiting and anti-theft qualities. The use of unusual shapes and sizes for bespoke packaging, together with the typography and glossy or matte printing on luxury boxes, are additional advancements in the global market for the packaging of alcoholic beverages.

Recent Developments:

·   A new line of custom corrugated insert boxes was presented by American web-to-print producer Fantastapack in April 2021. According to the company, this is maybe the first time automated technology has been used to design unique insert packaging online.

·    Fantastapack claims that using digital print and converting, gives customers a competitive advantage by granting them early access to cutting-edge packaging solutions.

·  For an undisclosed sum, American company C-P Flexible Packaging in August 2021 purchased Fruth Custom Packaging and its subsidiary, Cleanroom Film, and Bag (CFB).

·  The acquisitions aid C-P in expanding its West Coast presence and packaging capabilities for semiconductors, electronics, medical devices, and biopharmaceuticals.

·  With the launch of the Amazon Prime Packaging program, businesses can now build customized packaging for their goods. To lessen their carbon footprint, businesses are concentrating on offering sustainable packaging alternatives.

· Coca-Cola, for example, just introduced its PlantBottle packaging, which contains up to 30% plant-based components.

·   During the projected period, these activities by significant organizations are anticipated to propel personalized packaging market expansion.

www.futuremarketinsights.com

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Rafitec-Propex and FCO Group Present Innovations at the IPPE International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) 2024

Rafitec-Propex and FCO Group Present Innovations at the IPPE International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) 2024

The Brazilian companies Rafitec-Propex – a provider of curtains for poultry farming -, GDM Plastics, Plaszom Packaging, and Parnaplast – the latter three being part of the FCO Group – with their sustainable solutions in films and packaging, will participate in the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) 2024, taking place in Atlanta, United States, on January 30th and February 1st.

The group is part of Think Plastic Brazil, an initiative supported by ApexBrasil (Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency) in partnership with INP (National Plastics Institute).

Brazilian Excellence in Plastics for the Food Industry
Brazil continues to assert itself as a significant player in the plastic industry for the food sector, encompassing packaging and advanced processing technologies with a variety of developed films and technical bags. The companies of Think Plastic Brazil exemplify this excellence in the field.

The FCO Group will be present with products developed by its three companies – GDM, Plaszom, and Parnaplast – showcasing a wide range of sustainable solutions for the food sector. Meanwhile, Rafitec-Propex will present its curtains for poultry production.

IPPE is the largest annual event dedicated to innovation in the poultry, meat, and feed industries worldwide. Bringing together key industry players, it serves as a platform for buyers and sellers to explore the latest technologies, products, and services. The Brazilian delegation, represented by Rafitec-Propex and FCO Group, will occupy prominent positions at booths B35021 and B40071, respectively.

About Rafitec-Propex
Rafitec-Propex stands out as the largest woven polypropylene company in South America, using cutting-edge production technology. Renowned for providing high-quality curtains for poultry houses, the company is a Brazilian leader in the production and marketing of high and medium barrier films in the South American market. The company is located at booth B35021.

About the FCO Group
The FCO Group, another protagonist in the Think Plastic Brazil initiative, is a Brazilian leader in the production and marketing of high and medium barrier films in the South American market. The company operates with a variety of developed films and technical bags, high-tech equipment, following the highest quality standards of the sector. The FCO Group is located at booth B40071.

About Think Plastic Brazil 
Think Plastic Brazil was created in December 2003, when the integrated Brazilian plastics chain was chosen as one of the ten biggest in the world and was recognized for its cutting-edge technology as well as its human resources capabilities. The project is carried out in collaboration with ApexBrasil (Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency) and under the coordination of the INP (National Institute of Plastic), to promote the export of manufactured plastic products.

www.thinkplasticbrazil.com 

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