RENOLIT inaugurates two new machines
New coating machine with lacquering unit and line for film extrusion / RENOLIT invests 5.5 million euros in the Worms site
Worms, 19 March 2024 – The plastics processor RENOLIT has officially inaugurated two large machines on the factory premises in Horchheimer Strasse in Worms. These are a coating machine with a lacquering unit for films costing around 1.5 million euros and a film extrusion line costing 4 million euros.
„RENOLIT aims to continue its strategic growth. On the one hand, we are focussing on new, strategic markets and product innovations. On the other hand, we are gradually expanding our existing production capacities. By investing in the two new lines, we have laid the foundations for further growth," says Michael Kundel, Chief Executive Officer of RENOLIT.
New system for outdoor film
RENOLIT can now produce new coated films for outdoor use using the coating system with lacquering unit. The film, called RENOLIT GEOFOL FH, is laminated onto boards made of aluminium, plastic or the wood-plastic mixture WPC. The result is high-quality decking boards and outdoor flooring. The film is very robust and designed for heavy-duty use. The developed top layer makes the film surface extremely scratch and abrasion resistant. It is also non-slip and thus provides the necessary slip resistance. Solar Shield technology protects the film from excessive heating.
RENOLIT had already planned the so-called hot coating machine in 2021. In July 2022, the plastics processor applied for approval for the machine, which falls under the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG). Following a public approval procedure, the company received the positive decision in April 2023. The machine was finally put into operation in autumn 2023.
The hot coating system has a modular design and consists of five modules: an unwinding unit, a coating unit, a lacquer application unit, an embossing unit and a rewinding unit. The system makes it possible to coat, varnish and emboss the film in just one operation. The new film finishing process ensures very high product quality. The machine is also easy to convert. This allows RENOLIT to respond quickly to customer requirements.
Capacity for multilayer film expanded
There is also a brand new line for film extrusion. The investment volume amounts to 4 million euros. This is one of the largest investments made by RENOLIT in recent years. It is the third extruder at the Worms site.
The system makes it possible to significantly expand production capacity for multilayer film. It is not only faster, but can also output more goods. The new machine can also be used to measure and check the layers of the multilayer film.
The new extruder also has positive effects for the environment. Firstly, modern motors have been installed that are significantly more energy-efficient than the two other extruders at the site. The motors deliver 15 to 20 per cent more output with the same energy input. Secondly, extruder 3 does not require any steam or external heating water for the temperature-controlled rollers. The water is heated by the heating/cooling unit. Compared to the other extruders, RENOLIT can save 25 to 30 per cent or even 50 per cent energy.
Planning for Extruder 3 also began in 2021. The system was designed and assembled specifically for RENOLIT. A total of 16 companies were involved. Despite delivery difficulties, the machine went into operation in April 2023 and has been running smoothly ever since.
Dr. Michael Bätz, General Manager of the Worms production site, explains: "Alongside the new hazardous materials warehouse, the two systems were the key investment measures in recent times. We have thus made our production site fit for the future."
