Newsletter_06-2023_EN

EN 06/23

Servo press certified

for the clean room

Servo press certified

for the clean room

In sensitive industries such as medical engineering, the optical industry or electronics, clean room-suitable components

are necessary for all processes. This also includes drives. TOX® PRESSOTECHNIK can now provide a solution with the

servo presses from the ElectricDrive Core series: It corresponds to air purity class 5 in accordance with ISO 14644-1.

Those working in clean rooms must under no circumstances permit

any contaminations in the end product. The system operators

must meet the high quality demands of their customers, and

comply with the tightened clean room conditions on the part of

legislators. To meet these requirements, they also demand a certified

clean room-suitability with regard to the components used in

their systems. This is mandatory for typical applications in medical

engineering, the pharmaceutical and optical industry as well as

electronics and semiconductor technology. But industries such as

renewable energies or aerospace also need this certification with

regard to cleanliness suitability. TOX® PRESSOTECHNIK is meeting

this challenge and is adjusting its servo drives ElectricDrive

Core accordingly.

Examined and certified

The drive specialist only needed to make minimal changes to the

servo press for this purpose. In the next step, TOX® commissioned

the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and

Automation (IPA) in Stuttgart with the inspection. The result: The

ElectricDrive Core drive corresponds to air purity class 5 in accordance

with ISO 14644-1. “With this clean room certification,

we have reached a milestone, which opens new doors for us to

applications that require the highest clean room conditions,”,

says Marco Nimz, Product Manager at TOX® PRESSOTECHNIK.

What does this mean for users? The servo drives of the Electric-

Drive Core product range can be used for production environments

in the clean room.

Precisely adjustable forces

The electromechanical servo press TOX®-ElectricDrive Core is

very versatile for users – pressing, joining, testing, compressing, assembling,

attaching and many more are possible. The system is a

combination of controller, software and drive. Thanks to integrated

process monitoring and sensors, users always have full control of

the pressing process and quality of their product. They can even reconstruct

the force with which a component was pressed years later.

Speaking of force – this is constant and precisely adjustable for the

ElectricDrive system. Another bonus: Customers no longer need to

program the drive themselves before commissioning, but only need

to parameterize it. TOX can already predefine the programs for the

plug-and-play-capable system at the factory.

“For us, it was important first of all to show users that they could

really use the servo presses of the TOX®-ElectricDrive Core series

under clean room conditions, says Marco Nimz. In the first step, the

IPA tested and certified a specific drive from TOX®. As the mechanical

adjustments compared to the standard drives are only minimal,

TOX® is planning to have further models certified for the clean

room.

The Fraunhofer Institute maintains a database, in which all tested

products – including the TOX® ElectricPowerDrive with report

number TO 2211-1362 – can be looked up:

http://www.tested-device.de/

TOX® PRESSOTECHNIK GmbH & Co. KG

D 88250 Weingarten

TOX® commissioned the Fraunhofer IPA with inspecting the ElectricDrive EXe-K. The result: The servo press corresponds to air purity class 5

in accordance with ISO 14644-1. (Picture: TOX® PRESSOTECHNIK GmbH & Co. KG)

www.reinraum.de | www.cleanroom-online.com NEWSLETTER | Edition EN 06-2023

page 2/43

Elis Cleanroom expands

to open second laundry

in the UK

Cleanroom industry leader Elis Cleanroom are happy to announce expansion

plans to open a new laundry facility in Knutsford, Cheshire, near Manchester.

This is in addition to their current UK operations based in Newbury, Berkshire

and makes them the only cleanroom laundry provider in the UK to offer the contingency

of two plants.

JUNE 2023

Dear cleanroom professionals,

everything is new in May. That‘s what

we thought and revised the appearance

of Reinraum Online and the

NEWSLETTER.

This is first visible in the new logo. The

new word-image mark is concise and

modern, unique and easy to recognise.

If you want, you can see a sketch of a

cleanroom or two „R“ in an „O“.

The need for a second site has been accelerated by an increase in cleanroom

activity and requests for processing options in the Midlands, North of England,

and Scotland.

The Knutsford site will have both ISO 4 and ISO 7cleanrooms, and all processing

will be fully compliant with Annex 1 section 7.17. There will be a full gamut of

propositions available such as textile garments for all types of cleanroom production

areas, reusable cleanroom cleaning systems (mops & wipes), cleanroom

tacky mats, cleanroom shoes/clogs, cleanroom socks, cleanroom goggles, and

all available to be sterilised with in-house autoclave when required, or for those

who prefer, external gamma irradiation.

Initially, the facility will provide 40 jobs for the area, and this is expected to increase

over time. Production will start in Q1 2024. The addition of this new site

to the 30 cleanroom laundries within the 17 countries Elis cleanroom operates

in, will strengthened our position as the leading contamination control partner.

The revised NEWSLETTER is

„brighter“ and clearer.

We hope you enjoy reading the

information collected for you in May:

> Servo press certified

for the clean room

> Elis Cleanroom expands to open

second laundry in the UK

> Well protected for sure

> How to measure crucial process

parameters for efficient spray drying

> . . .

decontam GmbH / Elis Cleanroom

Hofmannstraße 13-19

D 91438 Bad Windsheim

Phone: +49 9841 40140850

email: cleanroom.de@elis.com

Internet: https://de.elis.com/de

With kind regards

Reinhold Schuster


page 3/43

Protective clothing and gloves against chemicals and infectious agents

Well protected for sure

Since April 2023, the testing service provider

Hohenstein has been testing and certifying

in two new areas in the field of protective

clothing: protective suits and gloves against

chemicals and infectious agents. These are

covered by Regulation (EU) 2016/425 and

are therefore personal protective equipment

(PPE). They protect people who do valuable

and sometimes dangerous work for our

society.

Protective clothing against infectious

agents is used in many types of work: for

example, work at sewage plants, waste disposal,

animal care, disposal of hazardous

waste from hospitals, etc. Workers are exposed

to unknown infectious agents (microorganisms,

parasites). The protective

clothing should protect wearers from the

mediums in which the microorganisms are

contained, such as liquids, aerosols or solid

dust particles.

A chemical protective clothing is a personal

protective equipment that protects

the person wearing it from chemicals that

surround him/her in a gaseous, liquid and /

or solid state. They are classified into 6 types

with different protection levels from gastight

to restricted liquid-tight.

Hohenstein tests and certifies

the following types:

– EN 14605: Protective clothing against

liquid chemicals: Liquid-tight (type 3) or

spray-tight (type 4) as well as partial

protection types PB[3] and PB[4]

– EN 13982-1: Protective clothing against

airborne solid particulates: Type 5

– EN 13034: Protective clothing against

liquid chemicals: Type 6 and PB[6]

Hohenstein Laboratories GmbH & Co. KG

D 74357 Hohenstein

A chemical protective suit protects the person wearing it from chemicals in gaseous, liquid

and / or solid state. They are classified into 6 types with different protection levels from

gas-tight to restricted liquid-tight. © Hohenstein


page 4/43

www.reinraum.de | www.cleanroom-online.com NEWSLETTER | Ausgabe DE 05-2023

Seite 5/103

Dry room for the development of materials for next-generation battery solutions

Daikin Chemical researches

with weisstechnik

Daikin Chemical, the leading international specialist for

high-performance chemicals, has built a new Innovation

Centre in Dortmund. Among other things, it is researching

ways to optimise lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles.

The dry room required for this in the staffed laboratory was

planned and implemented by weisstechnik.

Successful subsidiary of a large group

Daikin Industries is a Japanese group with almost 88,000 employees

and an annual turnover of €23 billion worldwide. The Group is active

in various industries and fields of application and has numerous

subsidiaries. This includes Daikin Chemical Europe, a leading global

specialist in fluorochemicals. In its newly built Innovation Centre in

Dortmund, Daikin Chemical conducts basic research for customers

as well as for the continued development and improvement of its

own products. A central area of research is the further development

of materials for lithium-ion and other batteries for the automotive

industry. The aim of the research is to further improve existing batteries

and to lay the foundations for the next generations of batteries.

Taking research to a new level

The newly built Innovation Centre will considerably improve the

technical capabilities of the research department. With immediate

effect, a generously dimensioned dry room for two people will

replace the existing glove boxes. The dry room not only increases

working comfort and efficiency but also opens up new possibilities

in terms of processes and the size of materials and equipment that

can be accommodated. The glove boxes used until now were able to

accommodate only objects up to a size of 20 × 20 cm. These had to

be laboriously moved in and out. In the new dry room, this can be


page 6/43

Convincing arguments during tendering procedures

With commitment and expertise, weisstechnik stood out against the

competition. The overall technical concept for the dry room, which

had to be adapted several times during the course of the project in

view of changing framework conditions, met all requirements. The

dehumidification system with two-rotor concept used here for the

first time in conjunction with a chiller from Daikin ensures optimum

energy efficiency. The flexibility and short response times of the

planning team were also particularly important. The client was impressed

by the fast and binding approach of weisstechnik. This was

a key criterion for the award of the contract. Another decisive aspect

was that weisstechnik is a one-stop-shop provider that has both dry

room and clean room technology in its portfolio and that all services

– from planning to service – came from a single source.

Technical key data of the dry room

done much more easily and in much larger dimensions. This means

that equipment for pressing active materials can also be used in the

dry room.

From basics to proof-of-concept

The research of Daikin Chemical includes work with active materials

and mixtures. For example, for the preparation of electrodes and

the production of novel solid-state electrolytes for next-generation

lithium-ion batteries. The aim is to develop optimal material combinations

and test their applicability with regard to interactions with

other materials. As a result, customers get all chemical components

for their batteries from a single source. The focus of development is

on the mega-trends of battery technology: increasing energy density,

shortening charging time, extending service life, optimising safety,

and increasing sustainability.

Research focus on battery chemistry

In order to investigate and improve the performance of the cell chemistry,

different materials are combined in a targeted manner, and

the result is tested in button cells. An important component here is

also metallic lithium, which reacts quickly and aggressively with humidity.

Work and tests with metallic lithium must therefore always

take place in the dry room in order to prevent damage to people, the

laboratory, and the environment.

The dry room measures 52 m2 and has a dew point of −55°C. It is

equipped as a laboratory with appropriate personal double door

systems and allows two people to stay there permanently. The dry

room construction was made of standard modules in a post-andbeam

construction and ensures that a room temperature of 21 ± 3°C

is maintained. The air conditioning technology was integrated into

the existing building services. A special feature was the integration

of the double chiller model EWAQ 130G-XR provided by Daikin. Because

weisstechnik also uses this model for other systems, the integration

was easy to implement. Although the double chiller is initially

more expensive to purchase, it helps to greatly reduce energy

costs thanks to its improved modulation capability. This means that

the higher purchase price is amortised in just over one year. It also

helps Daikin achieve its ambitious sustainability goals. The air-conditioning

and ventilation technology was independently integrated

into the new building by weisstechnik, and the fume cupboard was

equipped with an additional solution fume cupboard.

Project successfully completed

After completion and start-up of the facility, Lemke draws an extremely

positive conclusion: “The professionalism and reliability continued

consistently from the planning to the operation of the dry

room. This also included the necessary fine-tuning of the system,

which was carried out quickly and proficiently by the weisstechnik

service specialists. The system runs extremely stably and quietly and

reliably maintains the dew point even up to 2.5 people”. The planning

took into account a possible expansion stage of the dry room

as a clean room. This can easily be implemented at a later date. The

project was also a hit in terms of timing. Despite some Covid-related

delays and changes on the construction side, weisstechnik was able

to complete the dry room even ahead of schedule.

Experienced project team at the start

The construction of the Innovation Centre was overseen by the Japanese

construction specialist Takenaka as general contractor. The

laboratory equipment for the dry room was professionally procured

by the Hemling company, with whom weisstechnik has already worked

successfully on other projects. Daikin Chemical found the right

partner for the dry room through a tender. Because of the well-established

positive business relations – as a supplier and as a customer

– it was clear that an offer should also be obtained from weisstechnik.

Weiss Klimatechnik GmbH

Geräte- und Anlagenbau

Greizer Str. 41-49 D 35447 Reiskirchen

Telefon: +49 6408 846539

Telefax: +49 6408 848722

Mobilfunk: +49 172 6868367

eMail: info@weiss-technik.com

Internet: http://www.weiss-technik.com


page 7/43

Reinraumkran Pendeldämpfung © Altmann

Altmann Fördertechnik takes third place at the

Purity Technology Award ceremony „REINER“

Altmann Fördertechnik takes third place at the Purity Technology

Award ceremony „REINER“At the Lounges trade fair in Karlsruhe,

the trade fair for cleanroom and pharmaceutical process technology,

the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and

Automation (IPA) presented the „REINER“ purity technology award

yesterday. The cleanroom crane with semi-automatic system and

pendulum damping from Altmann Fördertechnik was awarded third

place by the jury.

Managing Director Achim Altmann was delighted with the

award, which he expressed in his acceptance speech. He described

to the audience how the designers had succeeded in creating

a disruptive innovation by implementing existing technologies and

elements in new areas of application - namely for use in the class 5

cleanroom. For the development of the new cleanroom crane with

semi-automatic system and pendulum damping, the employees of

Altmann Fördertechnik combined the already widely developed

technology of pendulum damping with a highly complex semi-automatic

crane control. The result is a genuine innovation for extremely

precise load transport within a cleanroom. For this technological

innovation, the manufacturer from Albaching has been awarded

third place in the renowned REINER Purity Award ceremony of the

Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation

(IPA).

Neutral jury of experts selects best purity innovations

In 2023, the Fraunhofer purity technology award REINER celebrates

its 10th birthday. Every two years, the Fraunhofer IPA awards innovations

that have the potential to revolutionise the industry. In addition

to Dr.-Ing. Udo Gommel, head of the „Intelligent Automation and

Purity Technology“ department at the Fraunhofer IPA, the neutral

jury includes the experts Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Arnold Brunner, senior consultant

at Brunner Consulting, Andreas Großmann, expert for technical

purity, Dr. Gerhard Kminek, Mars Sample Return Lead Scientist

at the European Space Agency, and Dipl.-Phys. Thomas Wollstein,

VDI e.V. The submitted products are evaluated in terms of innovative

leap, sustainability and industrial feasibility.

With millimetre precision and vibration-free

due to pendulum damping

Robert und Achim Altmann © Altmann

The pendulum damping integrated in the semi-automatic crane

ensures that no vibrations caused by inertia occur and that the load

does not sway during the transport process. The crane operator does

not have to make any compensating movements - neither when accelerating

nor when braking. As a result, he/she is able to guide the

load to the target position more quickly. Managing Director Achim

Altmann: „Even at a speed of 60 metres per minute, the load can be

positioned with millimetre precision.“ Robert Altmann adds: „Without

pendulum damping, the exact positioning of the object takes


page 8/43

a lot of time, requires both calmness and skill and makes the daily

work routine much more difficult. Thanks to the electronic pendulum

damping, the crane hits the desired target coordinates with pinpoint

accuracy.“

Since the load does not swing back and forth, the risk of accidents

is reduced and increased wear and abrasion are avoided. As

a consequence, particle release is reduced, and this is particularly

important in cleanroom environments. Compliance with the requirements

of ISO class 5 is guaranteed.

Why a semi-automatic crane is the better choice

A semi-automatic crane is the right choice for cleanrooms because

it supports the operator in an ideal way. The crane operator remains

in control at all times because he gives the go-ahead before each

process step. Thanks to the following features, the operator is able

to transport loads in the cleanroom precisely and faultlessly:

- Millimetre-precise positioning of the crane in all axes,

independent of load capacity, span and travel speed

- Picking up and setting down loads with pinpoint accuracy

- Control of the semi-automatic crane by means of

programmable logic controller (PLC)

- Travel speeds up to 63 m/min

- Accelerations up to 1 m/s² due to friction-type drives

- Transfer of the attached load or other process variables

to a higher-level control system

- High-precision load measurements

The use of the semi-automatic crane from Altmann helps to speed

up processes in the cleanroom and to make them safer.

Exchange with Fraunhofer experts

Even after the award ceremony, the Bavarian company and the other

award winners will be supported by the Fraunhofer IPA. In addition

to participating in a workshop, they are invited to visit the laboratories

in Stuttgart. „We look forward to exchanging ideas with the

Fraunhofer experts in the ‚cleanest cleanroom in the world‘“, says

Achim Altmann. Robert Altmann adds: „Above all, we appreciate

the opportunity to discuss the potential areas of application for our

crane with the scientists and possibly get suggestions on what we

can still optimise technically. In any case, the winning of this award

confirms that we are developing cutting-edge technologies in our

company. We‘re quite a bit proud of that.“

ALTMANN GmbH

Oberdieberg 23-25

D 83544 Albaching

Telefon: +49 8076 88790

eMail: kontakt@altmann-foerdertechnik.de

http://www.altmann-foerdertechnik.de

On Track to Meet Net Zero Goals

As part of our goal to make the world cleaner, healthier, and more

productive, Particle Measuring Systems (PMS) is committed to Net

Zero Carbon and Net Zero Waste to Landfill.

Our goals, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative

(SBTI), are to reach Net Zero in Scope 1 and 2 by 2030 and Scope 3 by

2040; we are on track, thanks to large Scope 1 and Scope 2 progress in

2022 and an aggressive Scope 3 plan for 2023.

In 2022, PMS saw huge gains in our Roadmap to Net Zero. By

the end of 2022, we reduced our Scope 1 and Scope 2 Emissions by

56%. This milestone was achieved by implementing LED lights, timed

heating, employee training and involvement, motion lighting,

100% sustainable energy use, and initial rollouts of electric/hybrid

vehicles for our fleets.

For our Net Zero Waste to Landfill Program, we have established

projects globally to eliminate waste and reuse or recycle material

where possible. We switched to digital operations manuals, eliminated

waste as much as possible, and added robust recycling and composting

to all offices.

We also started a program to switch to sustainable packaging

(recycled and curbside recyclable materials). In January 2022, we kicked

this off by eliminating 95% of our polyurethane and replacing

it with a paper-based protective packaging material. We also made

some changes to the plastic we use and how we use it, reducing 50%

of our plastic packaging. We are currently tackling our use of polyethylene;

the expectation is that all our highest-volume products

and all our new products will be free of polyethylene packaging before

the end of 2023.

We recently completed a third-party audit of our progress and

are very pleased to announce that we are on track to meet our Net

Zero goals. However, there is still a lot of urgent progress to be made

over the next few years.

With huge progress in our Scope 1 and 2 (direct emissions), 2023

will see more focus on our Scope 3 (indirect) emissions. Our goal is

to remove 3600 tons of carbon from our waste stream in 2023. Our

Scope 1 and 2 initiatives for 2023 include having 40% of our fleet

be Electric Vehicles (EVs) and continuing to identify and implement

improved energy efficiencies in our buildings. Our Scope 3

initiatives will focus on the end-of-life procedure for our products,

the shipping of products, and the start of working with our vendors

(starting with EcoVadis participation) and distributors.

“We are working hard at sustainability and Net Zero because it is

the right thing to do and now is the time to do it,” said John Mitchell,

President of Particle Measuring Systems. He continued, “Our parent

company, Spectris, prioritizes sustainability and continually challenges

us to do more and do it faster.”

Particle Measuring Systems Germany GmbH

Im Tiefen See 45

Phone: +49 351 88963850

email: PMSGermany@pmeasuring.com

D 64293 Darmstadt

www.pmeasuring.de


page 9/43

How to measure crucial process

parameters for efficient spray drying

Spray drying is a common sight in the manufacture

of dairy products like whey protein

concentrate (WPC) and lactose as well as in

pharmaceutical manufacturing. The process

creates dry powder from a liquid or slurry in a

single step by quickly drying it using hot gas.

Stable and accurate measurements of humidity,

total solids (TS), and temperature, can

help you make big savings in energy consumption

and costs without compromising

end-product quality.

Monitoring the right parameters is critical

Spray drying is used in a variety of different

industrial production processes to:

– increase product shelf life

– make products easier to handle during

packaging, transportation, and storage

– prevent microbial growth

– ensure product quality

– save energy

– increase yields

To optimize your spray drying process there

are a few key process-critical parameters to

keep an eye on: the soluble solid content of

the feed to the dryer (typically measured in

Brix or total solids (TS) and the inlet and outlet

air humidity and temperature.

Accurate Relative humidity (RH), temperature (T) and the feed line Total solids (TS)

measurements are critical for ensuring efficient spray drying.

Spray drying monitoring using stable, reliable,

and accurate measurement instruments

will ensure that your product is

dried sufficiently to avoid microbial growth

– which is particularly important with food

products – but not overdried, which can

negatively impact product quality and result

in excessive energy consumption and

costs. With energy costs currently skyrocketing,

ensuring efficiency is at the top of

everyone’s agenda.

Optimizing processes with accurate Brix

and TS measurements

Manufacturers can improve productivity by

automating and optimizing their processes

using in-line Brix and total solids (TS) measurement

provided by the Vaisala K-PA-

TENTS Sanitary Refractometer PR-43-AC.

For example, in whey protein and lactose

production – important food supplements

that are commonly concentrated


page 10/43

and preserved as powder – reliable, accurate

in-line concentration measurement helps

to control and adjust concentration levels

after ultrafiltration and at the evaporator

inlet. Precise concentration measurement

from the evaporator outlet helps to optimize

energy consumption and ensures the correct

feed product concentration to the spray

dryer or crystallizer.

In yeast production, where spray drying

is used to dry the yeast extract to a fine powder

or granulated particles, in-line concentration

measurement can be used to control

dilution of molasses at the initial stage, control

fermentation progress, and measure the

concentration of yeast extract to ensure the

target dry solids level is achieved.

Save energy and costs with accurate

humidity and temperature measurement

As well as spray drying, humidity measurements

are a key factor in optimizing a variety

of other high temperature drying processes,

including fluid bed drying and baking.

When spray drying whey Vaisala’s humidity

and temperature probes can be used to

measure humidity and temperature in the

dryer’s inlet and outlet air.

The inlet air humidity data is used to

control the process, while the outlet air

humidity data correlates with the moisture

content of the powder. This means it can

be used as an indicator of the final product

quality. Finding the perfect balance saves

time and energy by avoiding overdrying.

If you want to see for yourself how accurate

humidity measurements can help

you increase energy efficiency and improve

quality and yields in your process, try our

interactive drying simulator.

Vaisala GmbH

Rheinwerkallee 2

Telefon: +49 228 249710

Telefax: +49 228 2497111

D 53227 Bonn

eMail: vertrieb@vaisala.com

Internet: http://www.vaisala.de

Particle Measuring Systems

Receives Silver EcoVadis Medal

for Progress on Sustainability

Particle Measuring Systems (PMS), a global leader in contamination monitoring solutions,

is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a Silver EcoVadis Medal for its progress

towards sustainability. The EcoVadis rating is a comprehensive assessment of a company‘s

environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, and PMS received a score of 61/100,

placing the company among the top 25 percent of companies assessed by EcoVadis.

„Particle Measuring Systems strives to make the world cleaner, healthier, and more productive

and a great place to work,” said John Mitchell, CEO of PMS. „I am very proud that

we have been recognized for this commitment to sustainability, a top priority for us in every

location.“

This was PMS‘s first participation in the assessment. The survey provides specific recommendations

for maintaining and improving the score for the following year‘s assessment.

PMS is committed to continuously identifying and implementing recommendations

and improving its ESG practices.

EcoVadis, has acknowledged PMS for its strong ethical business practices, renewable

energy progress, and responsible waste reduction. Over the past few years, PMS has converted

all of its sites to 100% renewable energy and are always looking for opportunities to

improve their ESG. The Ecovadis assessment provided them with many recommendations

that they will be prioritizing and implementing over the next years.

Particle Measuring Systems Germany GmbH

Im Tiefen See 45

D 64293 Darmstadt

Telefon: +49 351 88963850

eMail: PMSGermany@pmeasuring.com

Internet: http://www.pmeasuring.de


page 11/43

Wastewater treatment

Plasma against

toxic PFAS chemicals

Harmful PFAS chemicals can now be detected in many soils and bodies of water. Removing them using conventional filter

techniques is costly and almost infeasible. Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology

IGB are now successfully implementing a plasma-based technology in the AtWaPlas joint research project. Contaminated

water is fed into a combined glass and stainless steel cylinder where it is then treated with ionized gas, i.e. plasma.

This reduces the PFAS molecular chains, allowing the toxic substance to be removed at a low cost.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have many special properties.

As they are thermally and chemically stable as well as resistant

to water, grease and dirt, they can be found in a large number

of everyday products: Pizza boxes and baking paper are coated with

them, for example, and shampoos and creams also contain PFAS.

In industry they serve as extinguishing and wetting agents, and in

agriculture they are used in plant protection products. However, traces

of PFAS are now also being detected where they should not be

found: in soil, rivers and groundwater, in food and in drinking water.

This is how the harmful substances end up in the human body. Due

to their chemical stability, eliminating these so-called “forever chemicals”

has been almost impossible up to now without considerable

effort and expense.

The AtWaPlas joint research project aims to change that. The

acronym stands for Atmospheric Water Plasma Treatment. The innovative

project is currently being run at the Fraunhofer Institute

for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB in Stuttgart in

cooperation with the industrial partner HYDR.O. Geologen und Ingenieure

GbR from Aachen. The aim is to treat and recover PFAScontaminated

water using plasma treatment.

The research team led by Dr. Georg Umlauf, an expert in functional

surfaces and materials, utilizes plasma’s ability to attack the

molecular chains of substances. The electrically conductive gas consisting

of electrons and ions is generated when high voltage is applied.

“Our experiments with plasma have been successful in shortening

the PFAS molecule chains in water. This is a significant step

towards efficiently removing these stubborn pollutants,” Umlauf is

happy to report.

Water cycle in a stainless steel cylinder

Fraunhofer researchers are using a cylindrical construction for this

plasma process. Inside is a stainless steel tube, which serves as the

ground electrode of the electrical circuit. The outer copper mesh

then acts as a high-voltage electrode and is protected on the inside

by a glass dielectric. A very small gap is left between the two, which

is filled with an air mixture. This air mixture is converted into plasma

when a voltage of several kilovolts is applied. It is visible to the human

eye by its characteristic glow and discharge as flashes of light.

During the purification process, the PFAS-contaminated water is

introduced at the bottom of the stainless steel tank and pumped upwards.

It then travels down through the gap between the electrodes,

passing through the electrically active plasma atmosphere. The plasma

breaks up and shortens the PFAS molecule chains as it discharges.

The plasma atmosphere is clearly visible in the

reactor through the characteristic glow and

flashes of light. © Fraunhofer IGB

Pilot plant for the elimination of PFAS. Following

the initial success of the trials, the technology

is now to be optimized and scaled up for

practical applications on an industrial scale.

© Fraunhofer IGB

Plasma reactor: Plasma is created by applying

voltage to the copper electrode. Contaminated

water is pumped upwards and flows back

down through a gap in the plasma discharge

zone, attacking the PFAS in the process.

© Fraunhofer IGB


page 12/43

INGENIEURBÜRO &

REINRAUMSERVICE

EGON BUCHTA GMBH

The water is repeatedly pumped through both the steel reactor and

the plasma discharge zone in a closed circuit, reducing the PFAS molecule

chains further each time until they are completely mineralized.

“Ideally, the harmful PFAS substances are eliminated to the point that

they can no longer be detected in mass spectrometric measurements.

This also complies with the strict German Drinking Water Ordinance

(TrinkwV) regulations regarding PFAS concentrations,” says Umlauf.

The technology developed at the Fraunhofer Institute has a key

advantage over conventional methods such as active carbon filtering:

“Active carbon filters can bind the harmful substances, but they

are unable to eliminate them. This means that the filters must be replaced

and disposed of regularly. The AtWaPlas technology, on the

other hand, is capable of completely eliminating the harmful substances

without any residue and is very efficient and low-maintenance,”

explains Fraunhofer expert Umlauf.

Real water samples instead of synthetic laboratory samples

In order to ensure true feasibility, the Fraunhofer researchers are

testing the plasma purification under more challenging conditions.

Conventional test methods involve using perfectly clean water and

PFAS solutions that have been synthetically mixed in the laboratory.

However, the research team in Stuttgart is using “real” water samples

that come from PFAS-contaminated areas. The samples are collected

by the project partner HYDR.O. Geologen und Ingenieure GbR

from Aachen. The company specializes in cleaning up contaminated

sites and also carries out hydrodynamic simulations.

The real water samples that Umlauf and his team work with therefore

contain PFAS as well as other particles, suspended solids and

organic turbidity. “This is how we verify the purification efficiency

of AtWaPlas, not only using synthetic laboratory samples, but also

under real conditions with changing water qualities. The process

parameters can be adapted and further developed at the same time,”

explains Umlauf.

This plasma method can also be used to break down other harmful

substances, including pharmaceutical residues in wastewater,

pesticides and herbicides, but also industrial chemicals such as cyanides.

AtWaPlas can also be used to treat drinking water in mobile

applications in an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way.

The AtWaPlas joint research project launched in JuIy 2021. After

a successful series of pilot-scale tests with a 5 liter reactor, the

Fraunhofer team is now working with the joint research partner to

further optimize the process. Georg Umlauf states: “Our current objective

is to completely eliminate toxic PFAS by extending process

times and increasing the number of circulations in the tank. We also

want to make the AtWaPlas technology available for practical application

on a larger scale.” The future could see corresponding plants

set up as standalone purification stages in sewage treatment plants

or used in portable containers on contaminated open-air sites.

„WIR SIND

FÜR SIE DA.“

FULLSERVICE FOR

CLEANROOM SOLUTIONS

– GMP- und Nutzerberatung

– Dokumentenerstellung nach

EU-GMP-Leitfaden; Annex 15

– partikuläre und mikrobiologische

Qualifizierungen,

Wartungen und Service

inkl. Messtechnik und

Dokumentation für „as built“,

„at rest“ und „in operation“

– Qualifizierungen von

Kühl- und Wärmegeräten

– Hygienepläne, Schleusenordnungen,

SOP‘s

– GMP- und Hygieneschulungen

– Blower-Door-Test

Fraunhofer-Institut für Grenzflächen- und Bioverfahrenstechnik IGB

D 70569 Stuttgart

www.reinraumservice.de

NEWSLETTER | EDITION EN 06-2023

page 13/43

Weiss Technik continues to develop and expand test solutions

for new approaches to electromobility

Safely testing solid-state batteries

The market for electric vehicles is booming. Simultaneously, new solutions are being sought to increase driving range, shorten

charging times, increase safety and improve sustainability. Solid-state batteries have the potential to replace conventional

liquid electrolyte-based Li-ion batteries in the future. Until then, there are still some challenges to be mastered and

many tests to be carried out. As there are currently no uniform standards in this field, weisstechnik is using its many years

of experience to develop solutions for compact test cabinets and test laboratories that will reliably meet all future requirements.

The development race has begun

The race to find the best solution for

solid-state batteries began long ago.

Depending on the manufacturer, the

first production cars should roll off the

assembly line between 2025 and 2030.

Yet so far, only the French company

Blue Solutions has presented a solution

ready for series production and used in

vehicles such as the Mercedes eCitaro.

Companies from Japan, South Korea, China

and the USA are currently the main drivers of

innovation. Given their many years of experience in

automotive development, however, German companies are

ideally placed to make decisive contributions to the success of lid-state batteries. Testing technology from weisstechnik can play an

so-

important role in this.

Solid-state battery innovations

In contrast to conventional Li-ion batteries with liquid electrolytes,

solid-state batteries (SSB) work using solid electrolytes. Currently,

different solid electrolyte classes are being researched with regard

to their performance in full SSB cells. The focus is primarily on oxide-,

sulphide-, polymer- and halide-based solid electrolytes and the

hybrid solutions that can be derived from them. The battery chemistry

has to be redeveloped across all lines of development and every

component has to be perfectly matched in order to achieve the

desired properties. For instance, new anode active materials (AAM)

such as lithium metal and silicon could also be used. Several options

are also being explored regarding cathode active materials (CAM).

Impressive advantages are achievable

Numerous research projects are working on the assumption that

the ideal combination of materials in solid-state batteries will offer

significant advantages over liquid electrolyte-based Li-ion batteries

and can revolutionise the world of electromobility over the long

term. Solid-state batteries promise a significantly higher energy

density and a longer range of up to 30 % while also being more compact.

Depending on the cell chemistry, the charging time can also be

significantly reduced and the number of charging cycles can be increased

to over 2,000. The cell chemistry also contributes to the low

fire risk of solid batteries in the

event of a thermal runaway caused

by overcharging or an accident,

as no flammable, liquid

components can leak out. They

can also be produced in a much

more sustainable way and therefore

have considerable future

potential. However, the production

of the components and the

cell production must be made scalable

and the production costs, which

are currently 7 to 8 times higher, must be

reduced to a level suitable for series production.

Development pressure is enormous

Solid-state battery technology is currently being researched by vehicle

manufacturers, suppliers, development laboratories and universities.

There is considerable funding available for this - VW alone

is investing 300 million euros over the next few years through its

partner QuantumScape. In Germany, Fraunhofer Institutes and the

KIT, as well as the Forschungszentrum Jülich, the TU Braunschweig

and the MEET in Münster, among others, are committed to addressing

this issue. Innovations are also being driven by the interdisciplinary

Zentrum für Materialforschung (ZfM) (Centre for Materials

Research) at the Justus Liebig University in Gießen. With his team of

around 40 people, the internationally renowned specialist Prof. Dr.

Dr. h. c. Jürgen Janek is conducting research into the chemical and

physical principles and challenges of solid-state batteries. He also

coordinates the activities of the Competence Cluster for Solid State

Batteries (FestBatt), which is integrated into the umbrella concept

“Battery Research Factory” of the Federal Ministry of Education

and Research (BMBF). “The expectations in the market are huge,

the pressure to deliver fast solutions is enormous. It is therefore important

to work with testing technology that delivers reliably precise

results,” explains Prof. Dr. Dr. h. c. Jürgen Janek, Executive Director of

the ZfM and coordinator of the FestBatt cluster.

Testing technology as a factor for success

The pressure on development is also increasing the demands on

test technology providers. This is because even solid-state batteries

must undergo numerous tests before they are ready for series pro-


page 14/43

duction. While we can assume that their material properties make them less problematic

than conventional Li-ion batteries. They also have a higher energy density and, therefore,

a different hazard potential, which means adapting the testing technology for safety

devices. Only then can performance and security be comprehensively tested. However,

as there is still no application-related test standard or manufacturer‘s specifications, the

question arises; Which tests are necessary and with which requirements and which test

facilities can do this reliably and safely? Despite their presumably lower hazard potential,

toxic and explosive hydrogen sulphide (H2S) outgassing is still possible while testing sulphide-based

solid-state batteries. Therefore, test systems must be designed to prevent

hazards to people, test equipment and the environment.

Requirements for testing technology

In addition to the possible danger of H2S outgassing, test facilities must also take into

account the higher operating temperatures that solid-state batteries sometimes require.

Regardless of the unique characteristics mentioned above, we expect test facilities for solid-state

batteries to have the same or similar testing requirements and environments as

conventional Li-ion batteries. The contents of the standards will gradually become clearer

as developments progress. This is crucial for ensuring that everyone within this dynamic

field has a reliable and consistent foundation for delivering comparable test results.

Upgrades for existing systems

Many companies and institutions already have testing facilities for conventional Li-ion

batteries. In most cases, those from weisstechnik can be easily converted or upgraded to

test solid batteries. For example, a test chamber may only require the integration of an H2S

detection device with sensor and warning lamp and, if necessary, an additional ventilation

solution. Even ClimeEvent test chambers for laboratory applications can be quickly

and easily retrofitted to meet most requirements. Upgrading existing testing solutions is

more sustainable and quicker for companies. This gives users an essential competitive advantage

in the highly dynamic field of development, where the aim is to find meaningful

answers and present secure solutions as quickly as possible.

New test cabinets and chambers

Many young companies and start-ups are also researching solid-state batteries in addition

to the numerous established companies and institutions. They often lack or have only

limited test facilities of their own and are therefore dependent on test cabinets and test

chambers that are available at short notice and safe to use. Weisstechnik offers an uncomplicated

solution to this problem The requirements for test equipment can be easily

determined with the existing module kit for hazard levels and, after a risk assessment, can

be implemented into standardised solutions or individual custom-made products. The

basic modular concept of weisstechnik‘s test solutions simplifies and accelerates their

quick design and delivery.

Testing technology remains a matter of trust

When it comes to choosing a partner for testing solutions in the automotive sector, competence,

experience and service are key criteria. weisstechnik are experienced specialists

in sophisticated testing solutions and have been active in the field of Li-ion batteries for

more than 20 years. This knowledge enables the company to offer future-proof testing

solutions that can be implemented in the short term and pay off over the long term. As an

innovation leader in the industry, weisstechnik provides companies with proactive and

highly flexible service support through a nationwide service network and tailored service

contracts. This increases operational safety and allows companies to concentrate on their

development work.



Greizer Str. 41-49

D 35447 Reiskirchen

Telefon: +49 6408 846539 Telefax: +49 6408 848722

Mobilfunk: +49 172 6868367 eMail: info@weiss-technik.com


NEWSLETTER | EDITION EN 06-2023

page 15/43

Rapid microbial monitoring system for airborne microbes expands

Cherwell’s EM product portfolio to further support Annex 1 needs

Cherwell to launch new portable

Biofluorescent Particle Counter at

Cleanroom Technology Conference UK

The new portable MicronView BioAerosol Monitoring System (BAMS) for

RMM applications launched by Cherwell to the UK & Ireland.

Cherwell, specialists in cleanroom microbiology solutions for the

pharmaceutical, healthcare and related industries, will be launching

a new portable Biofluorescent Particle Counter (BFPC) to the UK

and Ireland at the Cleanroom Technology Conference 2023. On 24-

25th May at Birmingham’s NCC on Stand E8, Cherwell will introduce

the new MicronView BioAerosol Monitoring System (BAMS)

which enables the rapid real-time, continuous monitoring of airborne

microbes to support EU GMP Annex 1 requirements.

BAMS is the first truly portable real-time microbial monitor

available and Cherwell recognises its value in continuous monitoring,

real-time feedback, and trending in sterile medicinal product

manufacturing environments detailed in the 2022 Annex 1 revision.

The certified ISO particle detector uses laser induced fluorescence

to detect Active Fluorescent Units (AFU) and count viable microbes

without need for culturing. The introduction of the BAMS rapid

microbial monitoring (RMM) system means Cherwell now offers a

complete environmental monitoring (EM) portfolio to meet all cleanroom

microbiology needs.

“As EM experts, we ensure that we can discuss and offer the best

solution to help our customers meet stringent sterile medicinal product

manufacturing standards. Adding the MicronView BAMS to

our specialist product portfolio means that we can advise and offer

our customers an RMM option if they feel it is appropriate for their

particular EM needs,” said Emma Millburn, Director of Sales, Cherwell.

“With BAMS, which can enable early detection applications,

sitting alongside our other viable microbial detection and identification

products, this means that we are a true solution provider for all

cleanroom microbiology EM requirements.”

Cherwell is exclusively introducing and distributing the new MicronView

BAMS within the UK and Ireland. As a new RMM technology

it can provide a complementary tool to traditional culture-based

methods. Lightweight at just 5.8 Kg with a large touchscreen useable

with latex gloves, BAMS can be easily used in many critical locations

to deliver continuous, real-time results without need for staining or

reagents for up to 6 hours while on battery power.

“MicronView is thrilled to add Cherwell as our business partner

covering the UK and Ireland. Their experience and reputation within

the industry is outstanding and we know they will drive the market

for our exceptional product line. In particular, they will be meeting

the demand for a modern class of instruments designed to support

requirements in the newly revised Annex 1,” said Jamie Diamond,

Director, MicronView LLC.

Jamie added, “The use of Biofluorescent Particle Counters to

support continuous monitoring, real-time feedback, and trending

in classified areas is growing rapidly. These instruments have the

potential to improve process understanding in the most critical manufacturing

environments. Cherwell is poised to deliver this technology

to their customers and MicronView is excited to support their

efforts.”

Also to be highlighted at Cleanroom Technology UK 2023 by

Cherwell will be its complete portfolio of cleanroom microbiology

solutions. This includes the Redipor® prepared media range, comprising

agar plates, bottled media, broth bags, vials and ampoules,

and SAS microbial air samplers, supporting both passive and active

EM applications, plus microbial identification. For best practice EM,

a combination of passive sampling and active air samplers, together

with accessories to ensure precise data collection is required.

Cherwell Laboratories Ltd

OX26 4XB BICESTER

United Kingdom


page 16/43

Stellenausschreibung

Direktor Deutschland

Als Direktor Deutschland sind Sie verantwortlich für die Entwicklung von ABN Cleanroom Technology im deutschen Raum. Seit seiner Gründung

hat sich ABN Cleanroom Technology der Entwicklung innovativer Reinraumkonzepte verschrieben, bei denen Modularität und Pre-Engineering

Schlüsselwerte sind. Mit diesem innovativen Konzept liefern wir die beste Qualität im Bereich der Reinraumtechnik. Nicht nur in Bezug auf

Zuverlässigkeit, sondern auch in Bezug auf Lebensdauer und Leistung. Da unser Direktor Deutschland ABN Cleanroom Technology in ganz

Deutschland vertreten wird, glauben Sie fest an unser Pre-Engineering-Konzept und sind bereit, es in ganz Deutschland zu verbreiten.

Ihre Verantwortlichkeiten

> Sie sind für den Ausbau unseres Unternehmens in Deutschland verantwortlich und werden dabei von unserer

Hauptgeschäftsstelle in Belgien unterstützt.

> Als General Supervisor kümmern Sie sich um alle primären Prozesse von Supply Chain Management und HR bis hin

zu Vertrieb und Business Development.

> Sie bauen ein Partnernetz auf und machen unser Unternehmen zu einem bekannten Namen in der deutschen

Reinraumwelt.

Ihre DNA & Qualifikationen

> Sie haben ein sehr gutes Verständnis für die deutsche Reinraumumgebung.

> Sie verfügen über einen Master-Abschluss in Ingenieurwissenschaften (Dipl. Ing.)

> Sie kennen die deutschen Reinraumbranchen, in denen wir tätig sind

(Mikroelektronik, Automotive, Life Sciences, Pharma, …)

Was wir anbieten

Wir bieten Ihnen eine Direktorenstelle für die Region Deutschland, in der Sie

die Möglichkeit haben, mit einem neuen Team von Mitarbeitern einzigartige

Reinraumkonzepte und Produkte in Deutschland zu distribuieren.

Als Direktor haben Sie die Freiheit, ABN Cleanroom Technology in Deutschland

vollständig zu entwickeln und so zu unseren großen Internationalisierungsplänen

beizutragen.

Interessiert?

Bewerben Sie sich über unsere Webseite.

www.abn-cleanroomtechnology.de

www.reinraum.de | www.cleanroom-online.com NEWSLETTER | Ausgabe DE 05-2023 Seite 17/103

Röchling Medical in Neuhaus am Rennweg: The clean room building was inaugurated in 2017. The company needed to expand its

manufacturing capacity to be prepared for future growth. (Photo credit: Röchling Medical Solutions SE)

Röchling Medical Solutions SE in Neuhaus, Germany relies on oil-free screw

compressors with energysaving heat recovery from ALMiG.

Unsurpassed in purity

Röchling Medical Solution SE in Neuhaus develops and manufactures customized packaging solutions for any medical

filling material. For the production of the hollow plastic bodies, Röchling relies, among other things, on extrusion blow molding.

In this process, oil- and germ-free compressed air plays a decisive role in achieving the required quality. A compressed

air station is used with currently seven water-injected screw compressors of the LENTO 110 series from ALMiG, which are

said to be unique in terms of safety. An expansion of the station is planned.

„We manufacture primary packaging materials for pharmaceutical

products under state-of-the-art cleanroom conditions in class GMP

C and D,“ describes Jürgen Neubauer. He is Manager Technical Building

Equipment at Röchling Medical in Neuhaus am Rennweg, a

small town in the Thuringian Forest. „We inaugurated the cleanroom

building in 2017. We needed to expand our manufacturing capacity

here at the site to be prepared for future growth,“ he says. In 2016,

the Röchling Group added the Medical division to its previously two

divisions, Industrial and Automotive. Various major projects quickly

arose. The company reacted.

Röchling Medical exports around half of its goods abroad. These

include closures, measuring cups, dropper inserts, and pourers with

Röchling Medical manufactures various containers with

capacities ranging from two milliliters to ten liters.

(Photo credit: Röchling Medical Solutions SE)

The ALMIG Air Control HE control system regulates the

compressors in a network depending on consumption. This

allows the energy benefits of speed control to be fully exploited.


page 18/43

different dosing options, as well as various containers: „We can manufacture

vials with a capacity of two milliliters and all dimensions up

to canisters of ten liters or even larger,“ Neubauer tells us, pointing to

the machines that manufacture products in the GMP „C“ cleanroom

class. To produce the hollow bodies, we rely on multilayer extrusion

blow molding, among other processes.“ In this process, plastic is

melted and forced through a die. A tubular preform is created, which

is transferred to the ready blow mold. Increased pressure causes this

to conform to the inner contours of the mold. The forming process

is additionally carried out by blowing air in the mold. „We can also

produce hollow bodies with a multilayer wall structure in this way,“

says Neubauer. Crucial for the quality of the products: No germs may

enter the material with the blowing air. For this reason, particularly

high demands are placed on the purity of the compressed air.

Oil- and germ-free compressed air

Until the new building in 2017, Röchling Medical relied on oil-injected

compressors. To remove oil from the compressed air, each unit

was equipped with its own treatment chain consisting of a cyclone

separator, pre-filter, dryer, after-filter and activated carbon filter.

„Nevertheless, there is always a risk of contamination with oil-injected

machines. If oil were to get into the pipeline network, it could

cause us serious economic damage,“ Neubauer knows. „Our goal was

to achieve compressed air class 1 while enabling safer operation and

being more energy efficient.“

Those responsible looked at various concepts from diverse suppliers.

In the end, ALMiG Kompressoren GmbH from the Swabian

town of Köngen near Stuttgart was able to convince them with its

water-injected machines from the LENTO series. „We were impressed

by the coherent machine concept,“ recalls the Röchling expert.

A reliable partner

Uwe Herrmann is the managing director of KFA Drucklufttechnik

from Zwenkau, south of Leipzig. With his company, he offers

maintenance and service as well as project management and sales

of compressors. He is also a sales partner of ALMiG. „In an initial

discussion, it quickly became clear that we could supply both the

compressed air supply and all the necessary components from a sin-

gle source, so the customer would not have to work with different

suppliers,“ explains Herrmann. „We have set up an energy balancing

system. This allows us to measure compressed air consumption and

power consumption.“ The software analyzes the results and creates

various simulations. For this purpose, compressors are specifically

replaced until the expert achieves the optimum result for the

customer in terms of energy. The measurements took place during

off-load periods and also under full load. After a detailed analysis,

the expert recommended the LENTO 110 water-injected screw compressors

from ALMiG with a volume flow of 16 cubic meters per minute

at ten bar overpressure.

When the building for the new compressed air station was in

place, the first four units were installed. A few months later, two more

compressors of the same series followed. In 2021, those responsible

at Röchling decided to invest in another machine from the LEN-

TO series due to the increasing order situation. Production runs 24

hours a day, seven days a week. With the installation of the new compressors,

the old units were gradually taken off line.

Low speed, long service life

The LENTO units have significantly lower maintenance costs compared

to alternative technologies, such as dry-running screw compressors.

„This is mainly due to their simple design,“ describes AL-

MiG expert Herrmann. „The compressor stages in water-injected

screw compressors operate at four to five times lower speed than

the dry-running variant. This has a positive effect on the service life

of the bearings and thus on operational reliability.“ Water also has a

much better heat absorption capacity compared to oil. „We have very

low compression end temperatures of well below 60 °C with these

compressors. The process is close to isothermal compression, which

ensures better efficiency and thus greater cost-effectiveness,“ explains

Herrmann.

The speed control system was particularly convincing. This allows

the plant to respond to the changing demand for compressed

air. The compressors always produce what is needed at the moment

- and thus only consume the corresponding amount of energy. When

idling, standard compressors without speed control require about 25

to 40 percent of the energy consumed under full load - without producing

any compressed air. The load-idle control of a standard com-

Guaranteed not off the shelf: ALMiG‘s compressed air station meets very special requirements for clean compressed air.


page 19/43

pressor in conjunction with a fluctuating compressed air demand

therefore causes expensive idle times. By using screw compressors

of the same size, it is possible to achieve a uniform utilization of the

equipment by constantly changing the base load. The utilization rate

is between 60 and 70 percent. The machines rotate - always five at

a time. Since the machines are in the optimum speed range, both

energy requirements and noise emissions are lower.

The ALMiG Air Control HE control system with integrated web

server is used, via which all relevant data can be read out online - for

example, the running behavior of the past operating days or weeks,

how heavily the compressors are utilized, and when the next maintenance

is due. In addition, the control system records the volume of

air consumed and the energy consumption. „If we notice that there

is a significant change in operating behavior, there is an alarm and

we can react immediately,“ Neubauer describes.

But even though LENTO compressors operate optimally at low

temperatures, they convert a large part of the energy used into heat.

To ensure that this does not simply go to waste, the units are equipped

ex works with an integrated heat recovery system. „We use this

heat to heat our cleanrooms in winter and dehumidify them in summer.

That‘s almost 2,000 square meters,“ says Röchling expert Neubauer

enthusiastically. „This eliminates the need for district heating,

heating oil, and gas - all while consuming an enormous amount of

energy.“

Always fresh water

Those responsible at Röchling Medical were particularly impressed

by the principle of washed compressed air, as used in the water-injected

LENTO screw compressors. „The compressed air is cleaner

than the fresh air drawn in for compression because the foreign

components it contains are effectively washed out by the circulating

water,“ explains Herrmann. This has been confirmed by several independent

renowned institutes - including Fresenius. For this purpose,

a refrigeration dryer is integrated in the LENTO system, which is an

essential component of the water treatment system. „The compressor

is filled with normal tap water during commissioning,“ describes

the compressed air expert. „The condensate produced is collected at

the refrigeration dryer‘s condensate drain and returned to the internal

cooling circuit as fresh water.“ On average, the entire volume of

water is exchanged in this way once per shift. The plant thus always

operates with fresh water. There is no need for an elaborately installed

water treatment system. „The fresh water produced in this way is

lime-free - and free of viruses, bacteria or algae. It can be discharged

into the sewer system without treatment,“ says Herrmann. „We are in

the Thuringian Forest here. The seeds of the pine trees produce very

small particles that settle as a yellow mist. If a compressor sucks in

these organic substances, spontaneous combustion can occur. With

LENTO machines, these particles are completely washed out.“

Not off the shelf

Processes such as blow molding are used.

Uwe Herrmann (left) and Jürgen Neubauer at a LENTO 110

screw compressor: „Cleaner than the air we breathe.“

Herrmann and his team at Röchling installed anything but a standard

system. In terms of safety, this is unique in the world, he says. „For

example, the compressors switch off automatically if the measurement

technology registers changed environmental conditions, such

as residual oil aerosols. These can be caused, for example, by trucks

that stop near the compressed air station with the engine running.

„If a compressor sucks in this air, it can jeopardize safe production,“

Neubauer says. In this case, the compressed air is not fed into

the network but into an expansion chamber - until the values are

stable again. In addition, KFA Drucklufttechnik provides only 1.2

liters of oil for bearing lubrication per maintenance cycle for each

machine. With the old, oil-injected systems, this was still 80 liters

each. This also ensures significantly higher operational reliability, as

required by ISO and the FDA.

Jürgen Neubauer looks at the measurement technology. „We

have a pressure dew point of -50 to -60 degrees with the machines

and the associated preparation. This also has a positive effect

on air purity. If you imagine that there are about three million particles

in a cubic meter of compressed air and that we can reduce

this number to as low as 200, depending on the size, that‘s very

impressive.“

On this day, Uwe Herrmann and his team are on site for maintenance

work at Röchling in Neuhaus. „Our visit to the LENTO machines

is only required every 4,000 operating hours,“ he says. That corresponds

to about two inspections a year, he adds. Jürgen Neubauer

is satisfied with the plant and that with ALMiG and KFA Drucklufttechnik

he gets everything from a single source - including reliable

service. „The project was certainly not standard,“ he says. After all,

when the new machines were in place, we couldn‘t just shut down

the old compressors. In order not to interrupt production, this had

to be done step by step. This is only possible with an experienced

partner,“ he says. Today, everything is running to our complete satisfaction.

ALMiG Kompressoren GmbH

D 73257 Köngen


page 20/43

Wir sind für

Sie da.

Bevor wir Sie mit

einem einzigartigen

Portfolio an Equipment,

Verbrauchsmaterialien

und Dienstleistungen zur

Kontaminationskontrolle

unterstützen, fragen wir Sie

nach Ihren Zielen, um Ihren

Erfolg sicherzustellen.

Umfassende Angebote.

Integrierte Unterstützung.

• VHP-Raumdekontamination

• VHP-Equipments

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Abdeckungen

• STERIS Finn Aqua-Equipment

• Geräteservice und Teile

Um mehr zu erfahren oder Ihren STERIS-

Vertreter zu kontaktieren, besuchen Sie

sterislifesciences.de


Online configurator from Weiss Technik speeds up and optimises planning

Dry rooms simply

better configured

It is usually a long way from the idea to the finished dry room plan. Even minor changes to the dew point or the number of

people in the room can lead to time-consuming rescheduling and have a considerable effect on the budget. With the new

online configurator for dry rooms, Weiss Technik has shortened and improved this planning process. The configurator is a

practical support for on-site consultation and allows an initial dry room layout to be created in real time.

Dry rooms for battery cell production

Regardless of whether they are classic lithium-ion or solid-state batteries,

battery cells require an extremely dry climate in research and

production because the active materials react strongly with humidity.

In order to protect people, processes, products, and the plant, all

work on batteries is carried out in dry rooms. However, as the performance

of batteries increases, so does their energy potential. This

further increases the importance of dryness. Planning dry rooms

used to be quite time-consuming. In order to find an optimal balance

between technical requirements and the budget, lengthy correction

and adjustment loops were usually necessary.

Simulating factors and effects

With the new online configurator, an initial concept for a dry room

can be created quickly and easily and further optimised with the client

using a computer. This speeds up planning and ensures greater

transparency. Changes to individual factors and parameters can be

simulated directly, and effects on the design of the dry room are displayed

immediately. The possibility of directly comparing different

layouts is particularly useful. Only after the rough planning has been

completed and the initial budget has been determined does the detailed

planning begin in the design department.

Energy factor: dehumidification

Air dehumidification is an energy-intensive process. Up to 60% of

the energy required for battery production is used just for this. This

accounts for a considerable proportion of the costs of a battery. For

an efficient solution, it is therefore particularly important to optimally

coordinate all parameters when planning a dry room. The three

most common factors that disrupt efficiency and dehumidification

are leaks, air extraction in production, and the presence of others in

the dry room. Using the online configurator, the various possibilities

can be easily simulated and customised.

Adjust parameters

The simulation tool systematically goes through all relevant parameters.

The planning process starts with the floor plan of the dry room.

The desired dimensions are set using a slider, and selection options

such as suspended ceilings can be added at the touch of a button.

The wall construction, leakage rates, and dew point must then be

selected. Ambient conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air

pressure can also be set as well as the waste heat from machines and

desired air exchange rates.

Calculate the human disturbance factor

Because just one person releases around 120

g of water into the environment per hour, the

number of people working in the dry room

has a considerable influence on air dehumidification.

An additional person means

major changes in the technical requirements

and subsequently also in the costs. The online

configurator therefore allows alternative

scenarios. For example, operation with different

numbers of people can be simulated,

and the effects on technology and costs can

be directly considered.

Consideration of air extraction and air

purity

Another possible problem factor the waste

gases produced during the welding of battery

cells. These gases must be discharged

quickly and safely. The required exhaust air


page 22/43

volume considerably increases the demand for fresh air to be dried.

With the online configurator, specific values can also be entered

for this, and various scenarios can be simulated. This also applies to

possible requirements for air purity. Here, the ISO 7, 8 or 9 cleanliness

classes commonly used in battery production can be planned

at the touch of a button. This is important in order to protect the

layers of the batteries (which are becoming increasingly thinner

because of the increasing power density) from dust and contamination.

In focus: optimal design according to demand

Once all parameters have been determined, the online configurator

calculates the layout of the dry room and dehumidification technology.

The latter usually works in two stages. In the pre-drying stage,

adsorption dryers reduce the moisture content of the fresh air from

the environment; in the second stage, the air is dried to the target

value. The Active Leakage Management (ALM) developed by Weiss

Technik is automatically taken into account. This greatly reduces

leakage rates through various measures, including the intelligent adjustment

of the air exchange rate and the use of textile hoses for air

injection. Other measures include using mainly internal air ducts, fewer

ducts, and welded return air ducts. After the dry room has been

designed and optimised, an initial budget can be drawn up. After approval,

the detailed planning of the dry room can begin.

Accelerated ordering process

Julian Kalmus, project manager at Weiss Technik and co-developer

of the online configurator, is enthusiastic about the possibilities.

“The aim is not to make a finished order directly via the configurator

– dry rooms are far too complex for that. But the configurator

can considerably speed up the ordering process and makes planning

transparent”. In the configurator, clients can immediately see how

seemingly small changes can affect the overall configuration and

what alternatives are possible. “This makes it a real sales booster that

helps to achieve better results faster and more reliably”, says Kalmus.



Greizer Str. 41-49

D 35447 Reiskirchen

Telefon: +49 6408 846539 Telefax: +49 6408 848722

Mobilfunk: +49 172 6868367

eMail: info@weiss-technik.com



“DIVE imaging systems” Spins off from Fraunhofer IWS in Dresden

Sharp Hyperspectral Eye

for Chip Production

Precise two-dimensional analysis of high-tech layers in microelectronics, battery factories or even in the automotive sector

approaches within reach. A measuring system developed at the Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS

facilitates this by integrating hyperspectral sensor technology, artificial intelligence and special illumination techniques

into a high-performance, highly flexible inspection system. A team of researchers from Fraunhofer IWS establishes “DIVE

imaging systems GmbH”, a BMWK-funded spin-off company, to commercialize this promising technology.

DIVE (short for “Digital Vision Experts”) will

initially focus on the semiconductor industry.

In this industry, the founders Dr. Philipp

Wollmann, Dr. Wulf Grählert, Oliver Throl,

and Livia Szathmáry strive to help ensuring

stable processes, increasing yields, and saving

resources. By no means was the choice

of location random: “Dresden is predestined

for our spin-off,” emphasizes Philipp Wollmann.

“Important players in microelectronics

are concentrated here in a metropolitan

area. In order to further develop our technology

in the best possible customer-oriented

way, we enjoy the shortest distances in this

city and can also identify further partners

with the successive expansion of the already

existing network.”

The founders think not only of customers

from the semiconductor industry. In

perspective, the quartet wants to establish its

innovative DIVE technology for the inspection

and analysis of surfaces and layers broadly

in different industries. Of the numerous

scenarios, rapid areal layer thickness measurement,

the detection and localization of the

smallest form defects or impurities represent

only a fraction of the possibilities.

Light Dispersed into 1000 Colors

The DIVE system uses visible light and invisible infrared thermal

radiation in frequencies between 0.4 and 2.5 micrometers (thousandths

of a millimeter) to illuminate the silicon wafers from which

microchips for laptops, cell phones, cars, etc. are manufactured in

semiconductor fabs around the world. A special so-called hyperspectral

camera records the reflected light. While the human eye, for

example, only registers three primary colors – red, green, blue – the

hyperspectral camera distinguishes up to 1000 “colors” or wavelengths

of light. The high-dimensional raw data, which can quickly

grow to several gigabytes, is then forwarded to an artificial intelligence

(AI). This AI can use the „1000-color image“ to detect possible

The focus is on a measurement system that

integrates hyperspectral sensor technology,

artificial intelligence and special illumination

techniques into a powerful, highly flexible

inspection system.

© Amac Garbe/Fraunhofer IWS

damage or contamination, as well as evaluate

the quality of individual chips or the entire

wafer. The DIVE system can thus detect, for

example, whether the coating step on the

wafer has been successful, and determine

the layer‘s homogeneity, thinness, evenness,

or lack of defects. This ensures only flawless

wafers to enter the subsequent production

steps.

Kick-off Project with the German Chip

Group Infineon

Already today, monitoring of the wafers

in the semiconductor factories takes place

during the many production steps up to the

final microchip with regard to many properties.

However, the analysis of entire wafer

area is comparably slow and is therefore carried

out sampled.

DIVE comes into play at this point: Together

with the semiconductor manufacturer

Infineon, the team will first develop a

hyperspectral system for laboratories beyond

the clean room and, in a next step, a system

suitable for use in such a laboratory. In the

future, DIVE plans to develop an inline solution

for direct integration into cleanroom

facilities. This will allow real-time analysis of many process steps.

Given the great potential of this technology, the four-member

team expects rapid growth. Indeed, the founders contribute several

unique selling propositions from Fraunhofer IWS: These include the

complete system concept including sample illumination as well as

the sophisticated software for system control and for AI-supported

data analysis. DIVE will manufacture the designed devices, systems

and later entire system components itself in its own production line.

The team will also provide services, technical assistance and customized

developments. The spin-off is receiving significant support

from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate

(BMWK), which is providing 18 months of funding worth 1.2 million

euros as part of an EXIST research transfer program.


page 24/43

The founders envision not only semiconductor customers. In the future,

the quartet plans to establish its innovative DIVE technology for the inspection

and analysis of surfaces and layers in a wide range of industries.

© Amac Garbe/Fraunhofer IWS

New Look at Old Books Possible

After the spin-off, Fraunhofer IWS will continue to intensively develop

hyperspectral technology in different directions. For example,

the research agenda includes concepts that use a laser to illuminate

samples or drastically miniaturize hyperspectral systems. The researchers

also want to use algorithms to extract significantly more

information from raw data. In the future, many other economic and

social application scenarios should develop from these approaches,

such as the further development of hyperspectral technology for libraries

in order to transfer valuable, highly sensitive cultural assets

into a public available digital form. In the future, digital twins could

be created that store a variety of data in addition to traditional image

and font information, such as paper thickness and type, document

age, or color pigments used.

Precisely this transfer of know-how into practice forms the focus

of attention at the Dresden Institute time and again. Transferring

cutting-edge research results into commercial practice quickly

and in a customer-oriented manner originates from the Fraunhofer

DNA. “To be specific, we are transferring a technology portfolio that

has been developed at Fraunhofer IWS for more than ten years with

enormous potential,” Philipp Wollmann summarizes. “We will help

the semiconductor industry in Germany and Europe to process wafers

particularly efficiently as well as with high quality and yield. In

this way, we are also supporting the EU‘s goals of significantly increasing

the share of European microelectronics in the world market.

On the other hand, we are thus securing jobs and value creation

in the region.”

Fraunhofer-Institut für Werkstoff- und

Strahltechnik IWS

D 01277 Dresden

Kompetenz in Reinraumtechnik

Alles für Ihren Reinraum - aus einer Hand !

Staubbindematten

Reinigungsgeräte

Reinigungsmittel

Handschuhe

Bekleidung

Schuhe

Tücher

Überschuhdispenser

Partikelmessgeräte

Staubsauger

Dispenser

Pinzetten

Papier

Swabs

HANS J. MICHAEL GmbH, Hart 11, 71554 Weissach im Tal

Tel. 07191/9105-0, Fax 07191/9105-19

e-mail: office@hjm-reinraum.de Internet: http://www.hjm-reinraum.de


Moulding Expo: Simulation Provides Insight and Reliable Improvement

Optimized Mold Tempering

At the Moulding Expo, SIGMA Engineering presents the simulation-based design of tempering systems using SIGMA-

SOFT®. In collaboration with /H&B/ ELECTRONIC, conventional cooling is compared with conformal cooling. Additionally,

optimized cooling channels made from metal 3D printing are presented, which can offer enormous advantages.

At the Moulding Expo 2023 in Stuttgart (June 13-16, 2023), SIG-

MA Engineering GmbH presents at booth 1E18 insights into mold

simulation and the simulative design of tempering systems using

SIGMASOFT®. Simulation is critical to project success in plastics

processing, including tooling, where geometries, gating position,

and process design can already be optimized. /H&B/ ELECTRONIC

relies on SIGMASOFT® for the design and dimensioning of temperature

control channels.

Cooling is critical to the quality of thermoplastic components.

Temperature differences lead to different cooling rates and create

residual stresses and warpage in the finished component. This becomes

problematic when there are differences in wall thickness within

the component, as the cooling requirements are highly variable

locally. Conformal cooling, meanwhile, is an established concept in

tooling that is increasingly being used. Simulation allows the cost of

conformal cooling to be evaluated in advance against the advantages

of the conventional concept (improved component quality, shorter

cycle times, etc.).

3D printing has revolutionized the possibilities for component

production. It is now possible to produce completely arbitrary channels

(regardless of feasibility using milling, drilling, assembly, and

sealing). /H&B/ ELECTRONIC and SIGMASOFT® have carefully

examined the simulation-based design of a novel temperature control

system made using 3D printing. The results will be shown at both

exhibitors‘ stands at the trade fair.

„Analysis and fluidic design of cooling channels are just one of dozens

of successful applications of SIGMASOFT®,“ explains Timo

Gebauer, CTO of SIGMA. „What they all have in common is the ability

to understand what is happening before money and time are invested.

This was an exciting project where we were able to accompany

this successful innovation.“ Jan Bayerbach, Head of Development

& Construction at /H&B/ ELECTRONIC, adds: „We have been relying

on SIGMASOFT® for many years to develop and optimize our

products before they are even manufactured. The good correlation

between simulation and reality has always impressed us. We are particularly

proud of the mold inserts we developed using 3D printing.“

SIGMA Engineering GmbH

D 52072 Aachen

Mold temperature control on the left using conformal cooling, on the

right using conventional cooling.

Temperature distribution just before demolding, with conformal cooling from 3D printing on the left (only visible halfway

trough), and conventional cooling on the right.


page 26/43

CWS digitises

the washroom

– IoT features now

available for the PureLine

– With the new IoT hygiene „smartMate“, washroom operators can sustainably and proactively fill

and maintain dispensers.

– smartMate enables mobile insight into the filling stages of consumables and ensures functionality.

As a leading provider of washroom solutions, CWS is working on the

development of the washroom of the future. The latest innovation:

an IoT-based solution for the PureLine washroom series that makes

washroom maintenance more efficient and thus ensures greater

comfort and hygiene – both for users and washroom operators.

Trendsetting technology

The new IoT solution called smartMate enables building operators

to monitor and maintain washrooms with PureLine dispensers in

real time. Through smartMate‘s web portal, customers receive information

and data analytics that help them anticipate peak times and

avoid empty dispensers. A location display of affected dispensers

helps them target the appropriate washroom.

With the smartMate app, customers can access real-time information

on the go. This includes battery status, consumables status

and online status. The corresponding web portal also enables comprehensive

data analysis. Using statistics such as the total number of

portions dispensed and the number of refills, smartMate identifies

peak times and demonstrates them in the user-friendly dashboard.

This results in faster response time for planning and better inventory

management.

The smartMate solution from CWS is based on the latest IoT

technology (= Internet of Things), which connects physical objects

such as soap dispensers, towel dispensers and toilet paper holders

with sensors and software via the Internet. In this way, data can

be exchanged with other devices and systems. For CWS PureLine,

being equipped with IoT solutions means improving the efficiency

and hygiene of washrooms and ultimately optimizing the user experience.

Smart for more sustainability

smartMate is intuitive and sustainable: customers can refill consumables

just before they run out, avoiding unnecessary waste. In sustainability

optimization, smartMate is therefore an important support

to reduce the waste of consumables by monitoring consumption

and optimizing refill schedules. In addition, the dispensing quantities

of the dispensers can be adjusted to allow more uses per filling.

Maximum flexibility

„The IoT-based solution for our PureLine dispensers takes public

and semi-public washrooms to a new level,“ says Enzo Lagrasta,

Head of Divisional & Regional Product Management at CWS Hygiene.

„Every washroom operator has the goal of being able to provide

their users with the hygiene products they need, such as soap and

paper, at all times. Washrooms equipped with smartMate are optimized

to provide these products consistently and respond flexibly

to busy peak periods.“

The smartMate solution is now available in Germany and Be-

NeLux for the PureLine line of hand dryers, liquid and toilet paper

dispensers.

(Copyright: CWS International GmbH)

CWS Cleanrooms Deutschland GmbH & Co.KG

Dreieich Plaza 1 A

D 63303 Dreieich

Telefon: +49 6103 3091290

Telefax: +49 6103 309169

eMail: cleanrooms.de@cws.com

Internet: http://www.cws.com/reinraum


page 27/43

(Image source: VACOM Vakuum Komponenten & Messtechnik GmbH)

20th parts2clean (26 to 28 September 2023)

parts2clean 2023: High purity cleaning

– Mere hype or new reality?

The cleanliness requirements for high-tech components are becoming increasingly stringent. As a result, in addition to the

terms “ultra-fine” and “precision cleaning”, the term “high-purity cleaning” has become established in recent years. But

what is behind it and what are the differences between the three terms? These questions will be addressed at this year‘s

parts2clean fair, featuring the highlight topic of “High Purity”. This complements the classic core areas covered at this, the

leading international trade fair for industrial parts and surface cleaning, which will be held from 26 – 28 September 2023 at

the Stuttgart Exhibition Center in Germany.

The enormously amplified and continually rising demands on the

reliability and performance of parts and components also have an

impact on component cleaning. This affects industries such as the

semiconductor supply industry, electronics manufacturing, electric

mobility, precision optics, the optoelectronic industry, sensor technology,

photonics, thin-film technology, vacuum, laser and analysis

technology, aerospace, and medical and pharmaceutical technology.

In these industrial sectors, the term “high purity” is increasingly

being used. “Despite the comparatively recent discussion about this

area of application for industrial component cleaning, parts2clean

has already taken it up through its exhibitors, who have a wide variety

of solutions on offer,” explains Christoph Nowak, Project Director

at Deutsche Messe. “Due to the growing importance of this field of

expertise, we have decided for the first time to supplement the classic

core areas of parts2clean with the highlight topic of High Purity.”

High purity, precision and ultra-fine cleaning

There is no generally applicable definition of the prerequisites and

requirements that need to be met to achieve high-purity, precision

and ultra-fine cleaning. These terms are therefore often used synonymously

and also have a few things in common – basically, extremely

high levels of particulate cleanliness, in some cases down to

the nanometer range, and extremely stringent specifications with

regard to residual film contamination. Those are the requirements.

However, there are also differences. For example, high purity is often

used in the context of the semiconductor industry and its suppliers,

precision optics, aerospace, and other industries, where high-vacuum

and ultra-high-vacuum environments are used to ensure specific

properties of processes and end products. In addition to particulate

and filmic-organic as well as inorganic contaminants, so-called

hydrogen-induced outgassing (HIO) substances or elements must

be taken into account here – not only for the component materials

but also for the operating materials and cleaning media.

Not just a cleaning job

In high-purity, precision and ultra-fine cleaning, the aim is to remove

even the tiniest amounts of dirt, which can vary depending on the

industry and the component. This often involves ultra-fine particles

and filmic contaminants, organics and/or inorganics, ionic residues

or residues of microorganisms. The focus here is much more on

the entire production chain than in the case of classic cleaning – for

example, upstream machining processes must support the cleanliness

objective, as well as cleanlinesscompliant parts handling and

the ambient conditions, for example, in a cleanroom.


page 28/43

In order to remove even the tiniest impurities, it is necessary for the

equipment and cleaning technologies used – wet-chemical processes

with solvents and aqueous media, dry cleaning with, for example,

CO2 snow jets, plasma cleaning and vacuum bakeout systems

– to be appropriately designed and constructed, and adapted to the

specific cleanliness requirements of the components. In the case of

wet-chemical processes, this also applies to the cleaning media and

water qualities involved.

Another aspect involves the clean handling of the already cleaned

parts. For this reason, the components are cleaned or discharged

into a cleanroom in accordance with the applicable cleanliness

specifications.

“High Purity” also a hot topic at international Expert Forum

aim not only to be a reflection of the market, but also to drive the

professional communication of tomorrow‘s topics,” emphasizes

Christoph Nowak. “The topic of high purity will therefore be explored

in greater depth in the bilingual Expert Forum.” The wellbalanced

program of this knowledge forum, which is organized jointly

with the Fraunhofer Cleaning Business Unit and the Industrial Parts

Cleaning Association (FiT), ensures that information on classic cleaning

topics, current tasks and developments from a wide range of

industrial sectors will not be neglected. These presentations by renowned

speakers from science, research and industry will also be

simultaneously translated (English <> German). “For national and

international visitors, parts2clean thus enables a targeted transfer of

knowledge about trends, innovations and benchmark applications

in all areas of industrial parts cleaning,” reports Nowak.

“As the leading trade show for industrial component cleaning, we

Deutsche Messe AG

D 30521 Hannover

Sustainability rating

MULTIVAC receives a silver medal

in the sustainability rating by EcoVadis

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of MULTIVAC‘s company strategy: With its durable machines, sustainable manufacturing

processes and its own energy generation, as well as its recyclable packaging concepts and commitment to a functioning

loop economy in the packaging industry, MULTIVAC makes a significant contribution to improving the eco balance

- in its own company, in the sector and with its customers. Testament to this is now also provided by certification from Eco-

Vadis, an internationally recognized rating agency for sustainability assessments. This year MULTIVAC was assessed for the

first time by EcoVadis and awarded a silver medal. This means that MULTIVAC, the processing and packaging specialist, is

among the best 25 percent of companies analysed by EcoVadis.

Nachhaltigkeitsrating (v.l.n.r.): Sophia Beck, Project Manager Corporate

Strategy, und Alexander Hauschke, Executive Vice President Corporate

Strategy, freuen sich über die EcoVadis Bewertung.

A transparent picture of the current state of its sustainability performance,

as well as potential for possible improvements, are provided

by the intensive inspection of the various requirements in the areas

of the environment, employment and human rights, company ethics

and the sustainable procurement of materials. “As an internationally

operating company, we see it as our duty to treat our environment

and resources as responsibly as possible,” says Alexander Hauschke,

Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy at MULTIVAC.

“When it comes to the environment or employment and human

rights in particular, we are far above the average for the sector according

to the assessment by EcoVadis. Our aspiration is now to start

working on the potential for improvement that has been recognized,

as well as continuing to expand the scope of sustainability and further

improve our performance.”

Quantifying the sustainability performance of companies in

terms of the environment, employment and human rights, as

well as company ethics

With its solutions for monitoring sustainability in worldwide supply

chains, EcoVadis is among the largest providers of sustainability assessments

in the world. It analyses the sustainability performance of

companies in the areas of the environment, employment and human

rights, as well as company ethics and sustainable procurement. The

EcoVadis ratings and scorecards show, how well a company has integrated

the principles of sustainability and corporate social responsibility

into its business and management systems. The methodology

is based on international standards for sustainability, including the

Global Reporting Initiative and the United Nations Global Compact,

as well as ISO 26000, and it takes into account more than 200 purchasing

categories and over 175 countries. Up to now the EcoVadis

database includes more than 100,000 assessed companies in over

160 countries and 200 sectors.

MULTIVAC Sepp Haggenmüller GmbH & Co. KG

D 87787 Wolfertschwenden


page 29/43

Arburg at rapid+tct 2023

Largest Freeformer 750-3X highlight at largest

3D printing trade fair in North America

rapid+tct, the largest US trade fair in the field of 3D printing, was held in Chicago from 2 to 4 May 2023. A highlight on Arburg‘s

stand 3812 (West Hall) was the Freeformer 750-3X, which was making its North American debut. The industrial 3D

printer with its large build chamber works quickly, precisely and economically and is ideal for functional components in

hard/soft combination. A Freeformer 300-3X in high-temperature design processed aerospace-grade Ultem live to create

air ducts. Three other exhibits from innovatiQ rounded off ARBURGadditive‘s extensive AM product portfolio.

„rapid+tct is one of the important trade fairs for industrial 3D printing

and is an excellent platform for increasing our brand awareness

and presenting our machine highlight, the large Freeformer 750-3X,

for the first time in North America,“ says Dr Victor Roman, Managing

Director of ARBURGadditive. „We will also be exhibiting our complete

portfolio – from fast and economical 3D printing of prototypes

for accelerated time-to-market to additive processing of sophisticated

original materials into resilient, traceable functional components

for the aerospace, automotive and medical industries, for example.“

North American premiere for the Freeformer 750-3X

North American premiere at rapid+tct 2023: the new Freeformer

750-3X with three discharge units and a significantly enlarged

build chamber measuring 330 millimetres x 230 millimetres x

230 millimetres. (Photo: ARBURG)

The Freeformer 750-3X is making its North American debut. This

largest industrial 3D printer from Arburg has a build chamber of

750 square centimetres, around 2.5 times larger than the Freeformer

300-3X – with the same external dimensions. This enables it to

produce larger functional components or to additively manufacture

small batches industrially. In addition, data processing and the Gestica

controller developed and manufactured by Arburg itself have

been further optimised in terms of process stability, component

quality and build time. The result is significantly reduced costs per

component.

At rapid+tct, a Freeformer 750-3X will be demonstrating a typical

automotive application. The exhibit will make a seal out of soft

TPU with the help of support material. The component is used for

car windows.

3D printing for aerospace and medical technology

A second Freeformer exhibit in size 300-3X will be producing components

for the aerospace industry at rapid+tct 2023. This machine

in high-temperature design allows the build chamber to be heated to

up to 200 degrees Celsius. The exhibit will process Ultem 9085, an

original high-temperature plastic approved for aerospace applications,

into air duct prototypes for aircraft cabins. Arburg will also be

presenting a number of component examples on its stand, including

those made of TPE, PP and multi-material designs, as well as the

possibility of finishing and polishing in subsequent machining processes.

The Freeformer can be used in clean rooms with just a few

adjustments and can process medically approved original materials.

That will be seen through the example of the customer iMedScreening,

which is using a Freeformer 300-3X to additively manufacture

individual implants for the human knee as part of an IRB (Institutional

Review Board) study.

3D printers from innovatiQ round off the product portfolio

This year, ARBURGadditive‘s entire product portfolio will be on

show with innovatiQ‘s TiQ 2, TiQ 5 and LiQ 5 exhibits, which at rapid+tct

will be producing a vacuum gripper from fibre-reinforced filament,

a bracket from PC and a model tyre from LSR. In the Arburg

Plastic Freeforming (APF) process with the Freeformer the same

plastic granules are used as in injection moulding. The 3D printing

systems from innovatiQ are also based on an open material platform.

The TiQ series 3D printers process plastic filaments using FFF

(fused filament fabrication) technology. The compact entry-level

TiQ2 model is suitable for operating equipment and robotic grippers,

for example, while the TiQ 5 can process demanding high-temperature

filaments as well as fibre-reinforced materials. for 3D printing

with liquid silicone, innovatiQ invented liquid additive manufacturing

(LAM). With the actively heatable build chamber in the new

LSR printer LiQ 5, the LAM technology experiences a further development

step.

ARBURG GmbH + Co KG

D 72290 Loßburg


page 30/43

Andrew Sargisson, Regional Sales Director (Business Development Medical) at Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery GmbH

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag rounds up the key attractions that drew visitors

to their booth at the Paris trade fair Pharmapack

All-electric and automation

highlights at Pharmapack 2023

Andrew Sargisson, Regional Sales Director (Business Development Medical) at Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery

GmbH, expresses satisfaction as he reflects on Pharmapack Paris 2023. Hosted at the end of January 2023, approximately

300 exhibitors presented their healthcare and pharmaceutical innovations to approximately 5,000 visitors. „Compared to

the event a year ago when the Corona pandemic continued to prevail, we observed a much higher footfall,” he reports. According

to Sargisson, the international scope of guests in particular increased, with the European region dominating overall.

Despite the current macroeconomic uncertainties caused by the

Ukraine war, the mood of visitors to the Sumitomo (SHI) Demag

booth was positive, with a number of interesting discussions held

regarding future projects. „Many companies shared optimism about

the future,“ says Sargisson. Although conversations centred on

the energy crisis, with its extensive range of all-electric machinery,

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag showcased how well-placed it is to address

this issue. Micro-moulding and LSR were the other application focus

areas for visitors. „We offer ample solutions for both,“ states the

medical expert with conviction.

Of notable interest was the all-electric IntElect series in the

medium clamp force range (between 100 and 220 tons), which Sargisson

revealed really appealed to the medical market. He expands:

“Given our medical competence and ability to mould applications

with extremely tight tolerances in large volumes, this series places

us in the strongest position within the sector. Our high-precision direct

drive technology ensures greater repeatability and consequently

medical components of the highest quality. Notably, these machines

are clean, fast and quiet.“

Curiosity about the new PAC-E machine, unveiled globally at K 2022,

was equally strong. A new innovation blending the company’s energy

efficient all-electric injection moulding machine with the exceptional

high speed El-Exis SP range offers a glimpse into the future.

The market appetite for the imminent roll out of this system is extraordinarily

high, notes Sargisson.

Continuous additions to the automation solutions provided

another big draw. „Many visitors are gaining a greater understanding

of our expertise in automation. Engineered specifically

for the plastics production environment, alongside the SAM-C

series featuring cartesian kinematics, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag

has now added to its automation portfolio with the launch of the

SAM-S, a 6-axis hybrid Scara and linear robot. Providing futureproof

automation options from a single supplier,” adds the medical

specialist.

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag

D 90571 Schwaig


page 31/43

Chillventa: While the outlook for the industry is promising, a number of old

and new challenges are emerging. An outlook by Dr Rainer Jakobs.

The future of refrigeration,

AC and heat pump technology

An overview by Dr Rainer Jakobs

Chillventa 2022 showed that companies from the refrigeration, AC

and heat pump sectors were able to maintain or in some cases expand

their sales, despite ongoing social and economic challenges

like delivery problems, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine,

or the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Although the prospects for

the sector are very promising, there is still a range of existing and

new challenges to be faced. Dr Rainer Jakobs (DMJ Beratung) discusses

the outlook for the industry until the next Chillventa in October

2024.

Refrigeration, AC and heat pump sector on the up:

Ambitious plans for expanding the use of heat pumps

The government’s target of installing six million heat pumps by 2030

is clear evidence of the recognition by policymakers that heat pumps

represent an important building block for the energy transition. “The

heat pump sector will make a key contribution to finally tackling the

major tasks in the building sector. It has already provided support in

advance by investing billions in the expansion of production capacities,”

says Dr Martin Sabel, Managing Director of the BWP (German

Heat Pump Association). In recent years, the industry has managed

to achieve massive increases in the expansion of heat pumps. According

to the BWP, 236,000 heat pumps were installed in Germany in

2022, equivalent to an increase of 53 percent compared with the previous

year. The majority were used within the scope of renovation

works “generally involving radiators and higher flow temperatures”

(Source).

Currently, production capacities in the sector are being increased,

based on the German coalition government’s announced

65 percent rule for renewable energies when heating systems are

being replaced. “The sales figures for January and February 2023

(29,000 heat pumps each month) mean that the target of 350,000

heat pumps for this year is within reach,” concludes Dr Martin Sabel

(Source). Positive developments for the heat pump sector are expected

particularly for detached and semi-detached homes and neighbourhood

use, but also for commercial and industrial applications

such as converting oil and gas systems to industrial heat pumps or

utilising waste heat from data centres. By 2024 alone, the government

is planning to install half a million heat pumps. Nevertheless,

the high cost of electricity and the electricity-to-gas price ratio continue

to present a challenge (further information). In Germany, electricity

per kilowatt hour is currently around 3.3 times as expensive

as gas – in Sweden and the Netherlands, it is around 1.2 to 1.5 times.

Opportunities offered by hybrid systems

Climate-induced global warming is causing an increase in the number

of hot days (> 30°C) per year, resulting in a continuing increase in

demand for air conditioners in both workplaces and homes. In this

context, a combination of different systems can be practical, e.g., air

conditioning systems in conjunction with a heat pump (air/air) or

solar panels combined with air conditioners. The latter is economically

and ecologically efficient because at high temperatures a lot of

energy can be generated through solar radiation that can then be

used directly for air conditioning. The refrigeration segment must

also cover a constantly rising demand in the market, whereby hybrid

systems that can provide both cooling and heat are becoming

increasingly important. To be able to meet both cooling and heating

in one system is the ultimate challenge and makes the use of waste

heat one of the most important tasks in refrigeration technology.

Challenges for the refrigeration, air conditioning

and heat pump sector

The previous principle of just-in-time deliveries is being pushed to

its limits (and will reach them) due to ongoing international challenges

like trade, system and competition disputes or disrupted supply

chains. For example, producers are having to keep inventory again,

and the importance of supplier diversification is being reassessed.

When looking for suitable alternatives, the principle of the circular

economy and automated production in your own country may offer

solutions and could be promoted by the German “Supply Chain Act”.

Discord over new F-gas Regulation

Due to the amendments to the F-gas Regulation and discussions about

PFAS, refrigerants represent another ongoing challenge that affects

all sectors. Various comments on the vote in the EU parliament

on 30 March 2023 illustrate the different attitudes to the regulation:

– APPLiA: Major setback for heat pumps in Europe

– EFCTC: Members are disappointed

– CoolingPost: “Disastrous” for Spain

– EPEE: EU risks shooting itself in the foot

– CoolingPost: A “missed opportunity”

– EHPA: Ban jeopardises REPower targets


page 32/43

– JARN: Accelerates HFC Phase-out

– CoolingPost: Vote sets “unrealistic” goals

– EIA: Welcomes ambitious F-gas vote

– EHPA: … must avoid stifling clean heating

Shortage of skilled personnel also evident in refrigeration,

AC and heat pump sector

The shortage of skilled personnel is a major challenge in all areas of

society. In the refrigeration and air conditioning segments, this is aggravated

by the fact that the industry has so far received little attention

from the public. Although the sector is small, it is very attractive,

albeit comparatively unknown. At least now there is a recognition

that there has been little investment in building the image and familiarity

of the sector to date. One area of refrigeration technology

that the public has not been very familiar with so far is cryogenic

engineering. The LNG terminals (LNG = liquefied natural gas = -162

°C) built at what the government calls the “new German speed” have

brought cryogenic technology into the public eye for the first time.

The idea that these terminals could also be used later for liquid hydrogen

at a temperature of -253°C is correctly located in the field of

cryogenic technology for the purposes of clarification.

Subsidies and professional development for the sector

On 1 April 2023, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs

and Climate Action launched its Heating Optimisation Funding

Programme. This programme supports training in both the design

and installation of heat pumps in existing buildings, as well as onsite

coaching (on-the-job training). “Over a period of 30 months, at

least 17,500 tradespeople a year, and around 3,000 designers and

energy consultants, are to be trained in the use of heat pumps in

existing buildings” (Source).

The trend towards the use of flammable refrigerants necessitates

relevant initial and ongoing training and professional development

workshops: Nowadays, a refrigeration specialist also needs

to be an energy consultant who can help users to implement and

comply with all regulations, as users are not generally familiar with

them.

At a glance

– The use of oil and gas for heating is on the way out; heat pumps

are an accepted solution and are being promoted by means of

targets and subsidies.

– Hybrid systems are becoming increasingly important

from the point of view of “energy performance”.

– The circular economy will be a key building block in

overcoming current economic challenges.

– The lack of skilled personnel will affect the capacities

of the various sectors in all areas.

– The question of the direction that refrigerants will take

in the future needs to be clarified.

Recommendations

– The utilisation of waste heat offers a huge and rapidly

increasing potential.

– The technologies of refrigeration, heat pumps, energy storage

and “energy networks” are already available and are continually

being improved and developed.

– New business models are being developed based on waste heat

utilisation, e.g. heat trading, heating and cooling networks, and

energy networks. In future, unused waste heat is to be avoided.

– Designers and equipment manufacturers should always review

all options and provide the operator with comprehensive

advice – and this calls for creativity.

NürnbergMesse GmbH

D 90471 Nürnberg


page 33/43

interpack delights the global

processing and packaging industry

For those in the product packaging and processing business there was only one “place to be” from 4 to 10 May: interpack in

Düsseldorf. Under the heading “Welcome Home” the trade fair welcomed visitors from all over the world. The joy of finally

coming together as an industry was great.

It delivered what it promised and exceeded exhibitors’ expectations:

the world’s largest and most relevant packaging trade fair set standards

yet again from 4 to 10 May, connected the industry on a global

level and acted as both a marketplace and content hub. Visitors from

155 countries, many with firm intentions to buy, came to interpack

2023. 2,807 exhibitors showcased the power and creativity of the

packaging industry with their technologies and solutions. What was

easy to see were the numerous impulses, ideas and concrete business

deals which will be implemented over the coming years.

At the end of the trade fair Bernd Jablonowski, Executive Director

at Messe Düsseldorf, says: “With interpack we were able to finally

hold one of the Messe Düsseldorf’s most important events again. It

has reported back impressively and reinforced its position as the global

platform for the exchange amongst all players in the packaging

sector, related process industries and all user industries. Our targets

were exceeded by far.”

Altogether approx. 143,000 visitors travelled to interpack in Düsseldorf,

two thirds of them coming from abroad. Alongside many

European countries, the largest visitor nations were India, Japan and

the USA. Around 75% of visitors came from middle or top management.

“interpack at last!” was a phrase frequently heard in the halls –

because after a six-year break the big community was finally able to

meet again in person. And this was reflected in the joy on people’s

faces. “interpack 2023 will reverberate with us for a long time – both

in business and personal terms,” says Director Thomas Dohse after

seven trade fair days adding: “The mood in the halls was great and

the inter-cultural exchange enriching for all sides. It was ‘simply unique’

again.”

This was underscored by the positive feedback from visitors,

96% of whom stated they had achieved their trade fair objectives.

Just as satisfied were the exhibitors whose expectations had been

exceeded many times over. “We thank Messe Düsseldorf for the

outstanding organisation. I’m confident that I’m speaking on behalf

of all companies here. interpack 2023 is simply a must for suppliers

and users from all over the world to exchange experiences and do

business,” says Markus Rustler, President of interpack 2023 at the

conclusion of the event.

Transformation as an opportunity

Considering current market developments, the enormous challenges

but also the even bigger opportunities, this interpack definitely

proved one of the most important ones in its history. The need to

automate, the will to act sustainably and changed consumption habits

are all expressions of transformation.

interpack’s strategic orientation towards the four Hot Topics:

Circular Economy, Resource Management, Digital Technologies and

Product Safety found concrete expression in numerous innovations.

The trade fair, which has traditionally been a key cornerstone in the

innovation cycle of the packaging industry and related process industries,

also more than lived up to this claim this year.

Sustainable packaging technologies

All facets of sustainability were top themes at interpack. Exhibitors

presented high-end technologies and holistic concepts that consider

efficiency and sustainability along their entire production line.

“Many companies in the consumer goods industry have set their own

sustainability targets,” says Richard Clemens, Managing Director of

the Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association within

VDMA at interpack. “Over the past few years, packaging machinery

manufacturers have succeeded in implementing sustainable packaging

concepts by means of corresponding technical adaptations and

newly developed machinery solutions. interpack is the showcase for

innovations and, at the same time, the point of departure for developing

further towards a sustainable circular economy,” says Clemens

summing up.

The many solutions celebrating a world premiere at interpack

also included a host of packaging materials and supplies in all their

diversity. In excess of 1,000 exhibitors were showcased in this segment

alone, making for a new record.

Forward-looking content

interpack is not only a business but also a content platform for the

sector, both live and digitally. A total of 50 talks were hosted at the

Tightly Packed TV studio care of interpack and ‘packaging journal’,

thereby generating additional visibility and reach of the top themes


page 34/43

and trends through live streams. Some 200,000 viewers dialled in

during the run-time of the trade fair alone.

The Spotlight Talks & Trends Forum proved a visitor magnet and

focused on seven themes on seven days including amongst others,

logistics, circular economy and e-Commerce. The programme was

presented jointly by interpack, the dfv Conference Group and PackReport.

New and fresh impulses

Also attracting plenty of attention were the other Specials such as

the interpack Start-up Zone, the joint stand Co-Packing, several

award ceremonies spotlighting exciting packaging innovations, the

‘SAVE FOOD Highlight-Route’ with new approaches to fighting global

food loss and waste and the promotion of women at ‘Women in

Packaging’. The special buzz at this premiere came by way of the approximately

200 women from the international sector, who exchanged

and established new networks during interpack.

components – which was held as a concurrent event with 80 exhibitors

in a separate hall – also went down well with visitors. The

upstream industries supplying components and software to packaging

technology and process engineering play a prominent role in

the digitalisation of manufacturing processes.

The next interpack will be held in Düsseldorf from 7 to 13 May

2026.

Messe Düsseldorf GmbH

D 40001 Düsseldorf

Connect Tubes Securely and without Cutter

Stable, strong, variably configurable and precise: Tube-based constructions are an indispensable part of building machinery

and plants. High performance clamp connectors play a critical role here. Ganter is now adding connectors of glass fiberreinforced

polyamide to its standard product range.

When it comes to clamp connectors, those universal connecting

elements for tube-based constructions, most people think of parts

made of metal. It is true that they are usually made of stainless steel

precision-casting or aluminum die-casting.

But there is no rule without an exception: Ganter now offers

clamp connectors of glass fiber-reinforced polyamide in diverse

configurations. These connectors can withstand temperatures up

to 212 °F (100 °C) and are used in applications where corrosion resistance

is important, where weight must be reduced or where the

visual appearance is a significant factor. After all, these plastic connectors

feature appealingly smooth and matte surfaces and attractive

coloring. In addition to solid black (RAL 9005), the parts are also

available in an elegant gray (RAL 7040).

All versions share the same dimensional accuracy and high-quality

manufacturing. In other words, the plastic versions should not be

understood as cheap alternatives but rather as high-end solutions

with defined load capacities. Depending on the tightening torque

of the screw connections, Ganter lists the axial extraction force, the

radial torsional moment and the rotation moment if an articulated

axis is present. The connectors are designed such that they fully encompass

typical construction tubes to create a nonpositive clamping

connection. The tubes are fixed in place with socket cap screws and

nuts of stainless steel or with a hand lever (GN 911.9).

These are specially adapted to the plastic used and are particularly

useful when the tube constructions need to be modified frequently

or without tools.

Ganter offers the plastic tube connectors as two-way, flanged,

base plate, T-angle, straight, swivel and jointed swivel connectors

in the most useful dimensions. This means there are no obstacles

to implementing even the most individual designs. And if different

tube diameters are required, special ribbed adapter bushings (GN

290), also of polyamide, can be used.

Otto Ganter GmbH & Co. KG

Triberger Straße 3

D 78120 Furtwangen

Telefon: +49 7723 65070

Telefax: +49 7723 4659

eMail: info@ganternorm.com

Internet: http://www.ganternorm.com


page 35/43

Going to China with the interpack alliance

Swop is ready for a restart

The international trade fair business in China is ready to go, finally offering a platform for the processing and packaging

industries in Shanghai again after a hiatus of three years. In November 2023, swop (Shanghai World of Packaging) will take

place there with approximately 700 exhibitors.

After the end of the stringent restrictions due to COVID-19, the Chinese

economy is on an upswing and industry actors from all over

the globe are meeting again at trade fairs. swop 2023 is being held

at just the right time to support the business of the processing and

packaging industries, to move innovations to the fore and to promote

international business relations. More than 700 exhibitors and

25.000 trade visitors, both domestic and international, attended the

last swop in 2019. The expectations are similarly high for 2023; a total

exhibition area of about 62,000 square metres is being planned.

The trade fair will be held from 22 to 24 November at the Shanghai

New International Expo Centre, the third largest trade fair centre in

China.

Together with Adsale Exhibition Services, Messe Düsseldorf

Shanghai is hosting swop under the interpack alliance umbrella

brand. Just like interpack, this trade fair addresses all core target

groups from the sectors of food, beverages, confectionery and baked

goods, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, non-foods and industrial goods.

It covers the entire supply chain of the packaging industry. Its scope

ranges from production and processing of packaging materials

to primary and secondary packaging as well as packaging printing.

Seizing opportunities in China

According to VDMA (the German Mechanical Engineering Industry

Association), 34 percent of global packaged food consumption is generated

by countries in Asia. In the coming years, a further demand

increase of 20 percent is expected, culminating at 337 million tons

in 2026. Within the region, China is the largest market for packaged

foods with a share of almost 50 percent. The largest product category

is dairy, followed by rice, pasta, cooking oils and baked goods.

The increasing demand is expected to lead to more investments in

machines in order to enlarge production capacities. In 2021, food

processing and packaging machines in the amount of almost EUR

7.9 billion were imported to Asia.

Visionary concepts and ideas

Several accompanying events and special areas at swop offer visitors

useful inspiration. The focus is on the topics of circular economy,

conservation of resources, digital technologies and product safety as

well as fast-moving consumer goods.

For the first time, swop 2023 will have the “Green Power Immersive

Interactive Exhibitor Area”, a platform for companies to present

their sustainable packaging solutions for the circular economy. In

this context, the conservation of resources is a further important topic

at the trade fair, also due to the increasingly restricted availability

of materials and components on the global market. The exhibitors

present powerful components, automated technologies and environmentally

friendly packaging management systems.

Progressing digitalization is of equal concern to the packaging

industry and will also be a key topic at swop. For example, the trade

fair will host a special area for intelligent production systems for packaging

and materials.

In addition, swop will present innovative packaging solutions to

help prevent food waste and ensure product safety at the same time.

For the Chinese market, packaging for ready meals is an important

topic. There are new packaging materials and technologies in this

respect that can extend the shelf life of food in future.

The FMCG Infinity Zone is a cooperation between swop and

PKG Family, created as an efficient communication platform for

fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). This term includes all products

that have a high fluctuation in retail, for example consumer

goods for everyday use. With rapid socio-economic development

and the advent of the digital age, consumer desires for customisation,

emotional appeal, innovation and creativity have become new

trends in the FMCG industry. Packaging plays a key part here. At

swop, the newest packaging materials, ideas, technologies and design

will be exhibited in this context. More than 300 exhibitors will

present their products in this area.

Federal sponsorship for exhibitors from Germany

Companies from Germany can participate in swop with a sponsorship

by the federal government. The offer of federal sponsorship

highlights the importance of this trade fair. Exhibitors can present

their products together with other German companies under the

“Made in Germany” brand, which grants them additional attention.

Messe Düsseldorf GmbH

D 40001 Düsseldorf


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Fakuma: Plastics for the Future

Remaining booth locations are filling up in the exhibition halls in Friedrichshafen for the 28th Fakuma international trade

fair for plastics processing. All involved parties are eagerly awaiting new impetus from the world’s leading trade fair for the

injection moulding industry. With great innovative strength and dynamics, combined with a practice-oriented trade fair

format, the premium event for the fields of extrusion technology, thermoforming and 3D printing will focus above all on

circular economy. The entire industry has saved the trade fair dates from the 17th through the 21st of October, 2023!

Fakuma is regarded around the world as the leading trade fair highlight

in the field of injection moulding. It’s the industry and technology

barometer in the fields of extrusion technology, thermoforming

and 3D printing, and this year’s event will once again focus on the

issues of digitalisation, process automation and energy efficiency.

“Above all for our industry sectors, circular economy and sustainability

are not just buzzwords,” notes Annemarie Schur, Fakuma

project manager at trade fair promoters P. E. Schall. “It has become

plainly apparent that manufacturers and users are focusing on making

plastics production and processing as sustainable as possible.

Companies are concentrating on top-quality, durable high-tech solutions

which are used in a broad range of industries where they’re

indispensable, for example in solar modules, e-mobility, construction

and technical components, as well as in the consumer and furnishing

sectors. None of it can be done without plastics,” points out

the project manager. “Fakuma will once again demonstrate that the

highly complex subject of plastics can be incorporated into climate

protection and circular economy, and that it’s forward-looking in a

very special way.”

Success Factors: Practical Relevance, Focus and Continuity

Energy efficiency, sustainability, recyclable design and AI-based

solutions will be addressed extensively at the trade fair. Another

important objective of Fakuma involves the presentation of plastics

processing in the intelligently networked factory of tomorrow.

“The event is distinguished by its high levels of practical relevance,”

stresses Nicolai Küls, managing director of technotrans solutions

GmbH. “Technological trends and their implementation in series

production are frequently exhibited at Fakuma. This is an important

argument for an innovative, applications-oriented company like

technotrans.

In our opinion, practical relevance, focus and continuity are also

key ingredients in the recipe for future success.”

“As important megatrends, climate protection and society’s

growing environmental awareness, constantly changing legal requirements

such as specifying the use of less environmentally harmful

refrigerants for process cooling in the future and e-mobility will

ensure that energy efficiency will continue to be a driving factor in

product development in the future,” affirms Nicolai Küls. “Moreover,

intelligent interaction between machines, tools and peripheral technology

– especially in the field of thermal process management – still

offers lots of potential for savings.”

Future Issues: Processes, Products and Business Models

Countless sustainable solutions and products are simply not possible

without plastics. The significance of plastics, their importance for

everyday life and future demands will be on the agenda at Fakuma.

As a result, the trade fair is the ideal platform for the presentation

of new products and technological solutions, and for expert discussions

regarding current and future challenges. Advanced machines,

optimised processes, new products and forward-looking business

models will also be in focus.

“Fakuma 2023, with its practice-oriented format and informal atmosphere,

will once again be an exciting and essential milestone for

discussing solutions to the demanding tasks currently faced by the

industry sector,” emphasises Annemarie Schur. “Fakuma has long

since established itself as a meeting place for an international expert

audience. We expect that more than 40% of the exhibitors will come

from outside of Germany again in 2023. The high levels of internationalism,

the intrinsic quality of the expert discussions and, of course,

the exciting subject of plastics with its relevance for the future make

Fakuma a unique business meet – not least of all for maintaining

customer relations, acquiring new customers and for an exchange of

ideas with business partners, students and institutes. The exhibitor

forum with world-class expert presentations will also deliver inspiring

impetus for all relevant topics.”

P. E. Schall GmbH & Co. KG D 72636 Frickenhausen


page 37/43

ENGEL at Plastpol 2023

Output meets sustainability

Green is more than a colour: At Plastpol 2023 from 23 to 26 May in Kielce, Poland, ENGEL is impressively demonstrating

its expertise in resource- and energy-saving plastics processing with two challenging applications. All-electric injection

moulding machines by ENGEL reduce energy consumption to a minimum and boost competitiveness in combination with

smart assistance systems and process integration.

Maximum output on the smallest footprint

The development focus in the process for manufacturing sample containers

for medical diagnostics under cleanroom conditions was a minimum

footprint. Minimum both in terms of the CO2 emissions and

of the production cell footprint. The all-electric ENGEL e-motion 160

combi M injection moulding machine is particularly good at saving

space. In the combi M design, a horizontally rotating indexing table

divides the injection moulding machine‘s mould closing area in the

centre to be able to run two moulds in parallel. One injection unit is

installed on the moving platen and another on the stationary platen.

The delivery bulbs are two-component parts. In a first injection

moulding step, the primary parts with cylindrical cavities are injected

using a polycarbonate material dyed in black. Then the indexing

table rotates through 180 degrees in order to seal the cylinders with

transparent polycarbonate on one side with lenticular covers in a second

injection moulding step. While this is going on, the next set of

primary parts is being produced on the other side. The two moulds,

with 32 cavities each, come from Hack Formenbau in Kirchheim

unter Teck, Germany.

Machine footprint reduced by more than 20 percent

The e-motion machine features a whole series of smart assistance

systems from the ENGEL inject 4.0 program. Among other features,

this includes iQ weight control, which detects fluctuations in the

injection volume and material viscosity and automatically compensates

for them within validated limits in the same cycle, and iQ flow

control, which ensures constant temperature control ratios by controlling

temperature differences in the individual cooling circuits

based on a set value.

Extremely compact: combi M technology substantially reduces

the production cell‘s footprint. (Picture: ENGEL)

combi M horizontal indexing table technology by ENGEL saves valuable

floor space, especially where multiple-cavity moulds are used.

A comparable 32-cavity mould with a vertical rotary table would

have needed a larger e-motion injection moulding machine with at

least 280 tonnes clamp force. In this application, the horizontal indexing

table technology reduces the injection moulding machine‘s

footprint by more than 20 percent. Especially in the cleanroom, this

significantly improves cost efficiency. The smaller machine consumes

even less energy and that despite the fact that the all-electric

injection moulding machines from the ENGEL e-motion series are

already some of the most energy-efficient machines on the market

in this class.

ENGEL adding recycled material to high-end visible parts

All-electric drive technology is the mainstay of the second machine

showcased by ENGEL at Plastpol 2023. TV boxes with a high-gloss

finish are being produced on an e-mac 465/160 injection moulding

machine. What is special about this is that the boxes are made from

100 percent rABS sourced from post-consumer waste collection.

The cavity is laser engraved to create an innovative rainbow pattern

on the top side of the boxes, and there are fixtures for installing fans

and connectors on the side surfaces. The ultra-thin design – the wall

thickness is 1.2 mm – saves material. Conventional injection moulding

would require a greater wall thickness.

To achieve a closed material cycle for high-end visible components

made of ABS, ENGEL is cooperating with technology expert

Roctool (Le Bourget du Lac, France). The key to the premium surface

quality of the recycled component is, on the one hand, mould temperature

control based on induction technology. New energy-efficient,

compact and air-cooled Roctool generators are used here.

On the other hand, smart assistance systems by ENGEL make a

contribution to high quality in the processing of recycled materials.

Since recycled materials are generally subject to greater batch

fluctuations than virgin material, iQ weight control has a particularly

positive impact in terms of achieving consistently high product

quality in this application. At the same time, iQ melt control

improves the homogeneity of the molten plastics by automatically

adjusting the plasticising time to the optimum value for the application.

The application presented at Plastpol demonstrates the huge

potential for the circular economy for manufacturers of household

appliances, white goods, consumer electronics and telecommunications

products. The proportion of virgin material can be significantly

reduced, to zero in the best case. Already today, many manufacturers

are taking back end-of-life equipment for recycling and returning

it to production. Thanks to this combination of Roctool induction

technology and smart digital assistance systems by ENGEL, even demanding

housing parts with a very thin and complex geometry can


page 38/43

Under cleanroom conditions, ENGEL is moulding two-component

delivery bulbs for medical diagnostics at its stand at Plastpol 2023.

(Picture: ENGEL)

now be produced from post-consumer recycled material in a cost

effective and sustainable way.

Pushing the circular economy forward together

The rABS used to produce the premium electronics boxes is sourced

from post-consumer waste collection. (Picture: ENGEL)

Other system partners involved in the project‘s success include

Moldetipo (Marinha Grande, Portugal), who built the mould, and

Lavergne (Montréal, Canada), who provide the recycled material,

INCOE (Rödermark, Germany) for the hot runners and Standex Engraving

Mold-Tech (Treviso, Italy) for mould engraving.

Close collaboration along the value chain is essential for establishing

a circular economy. This is why ENGEL is strongly committed

to networking these companies on multilateral, horizontal platforms.

They include the R-Cycle Initiative whose objective it is to introduce

digital passports for plastics products. All information relevant to

recycling is automatically recorded as early as the product manufacturing

stage so that, for example, waste sorting plants can identify

recyclable plastics more accurately and deliver single grade fractions

for recycling. This approach puts an end to the downcycling that has

been prevalent up to now by reusing the recycled plastics on a par or

even with added value.

ENGEL AUSTRIA GmbH

A 4311 Schwertberg

High Torques thanks to Compact Bevel Gear Boxes

and Worm Gear Reducers

Ganter has expanded its product range with two compact

and robust angular gear boxes that translate rotational

movements by 90 degrees and transmit high torques with

or without a gear ratio. They are suitable for applications

such as handling systems, packaging machines and conveyor

technology.

The bevel gear box GN 3971 is available in seven sizes with housing

lengths between 32 and 60 mm and widths between 18 and 35 mm.

The gear ratio between the gear box shafts is always 1, the direction

of rotation can be selected as desired. The gear shafts can receive

axial and radial forces of 60 newtons on the smallest model and 550

newtons on the largest. The special tooth geometry of the bevel gears

of case-hardened steel allows for particularly high torques relative

to the size. This can be as high as 10 newton-meters, depending

on the operating speed.

Thanks to small center distances, the worm gear reducer GN

3975 measures only 60 mm on the sides and only 35 mm in width.

An internal hardened steel screw moves a worm gear made of special

brass. Seven versions provide gear ratios between 1:13 and 1:65. The

maximum radial and axial force ranges between 200 and 500 newtons

on the input side and is always 500 newtons on the output side.

As of a gear ratio of 1:18, a static self-locking mechanism prevents

rotation of the worm gear from the output side, offering improved

safety in many applications.

The encapsulated housings of anodized aluminum make both

angular gears light and corrosion resistant. They also effectively dissipate

the resulting frictional heat. Numerous fastening holes make

it possible to mount the gear boxes in many positions. The shafts can

be rotated in both directions and feature a threaded bore and parallel

keys for a positive connection to the hub.

The bevel gear boxes and worm gear reducers have lifetime

lubrication and therefore require no maintenance. The two gear

boxes can also be combined together, such as with the elastomer jaw

coupling GN 2240.

Otto Ganter GmbH & Co. KG

Triberger Straße 3

D 78120 Furtwangen

Telefon: +49 7723 65070 Telefax: +49 7723 4659

eMail: info@ganternorm.com

Internet: http://www.ganternorm.com


page 39/43

Tailored Void-Labels: The Appropriate Effect for Every Application

Tailored Void-Labels:

The Appropriate Effect for Every Application

The volume of the worldwide counterfeit medicines market amounts to about 200 billion U.S. dollars. Every year, it grows

by about 20 percent—twice as fast as the legal medicines market. Counterfeits and tampering pose potential health risks to

patients. The consequences for the pharmaceutical industry are major economic losses and reputational damage. Pharmaceutical

packaging can be protected by means of specialty Void-Labels from Schreiner MediPharm. They make tampering

attempts and first opening clearly and irreversibly visible.

In February 2019, the European Union responded

to the growing counterfeit medicines

market by issuing the EU Falsified

Medicines Directive for pharmaceutical packaging.

The global ISO 21976 standard also

states how security features can be used on

pharmaceutical packaging and how tampering

attempts can be verified. In addition,

it specifies requirements for protecting the

authenticity of pharmaceutical packaging.

The tailored Void-Labels from Schreiner

MediPharm satisfy all these requirements.

The utilization of MediPharm’s Void-Labels

makes it clearly more difficult for counterfeiters

to reuse original packaging. Peeling

off a label with a void effect makes a previously

covert message visible. Following extensive

tests, Schreiner MediPharm adapts

the closure seals specifically to the relevant

packaging, material, substrate, and application.

The seals can be custom-designed, offering

film material choices in various colors

as well as white, and transparent versions.

In addition, the void effects can be used for

glass and plastic containers. Various void effects

can be realized depending on the individual

use case:

In addition, a convenient tab may be integrated

for particularly easy handling by the

final user. Due to the addition of overt or

covert authentication features, the Void-Labels

can also provide proof of authenticity.

Schreiner MediPharm ensures optimal and

reliable performance of the seal that is adapted

precisely to the respective packaging

and specific threat scenario.

No Transfer

Peeling off the label leaves no

residues on the pharmaceutical

packaging. The void effect becomes

visible only in the label

after it has been opened for the

first time. Reclosure of the label

with the visible void effect is

possible.

Semi Transfer

Peeling off the label leaves

partial residues on the

pharmaceutical packaging.

After first opening, the void

effect is visible both in the label

and on the packaging.

Reclosure of the label with the

visible void effect is possible.

Full Transfer

Peeling off the Void-Label leaves

a complete coating layer on

the packaging. Consequently,

the void effect is visible on the

pharmaceutical packaging and

in the label after first opening

but reclosure of the label is not

possible.

Schreiner MediPharm

D 85764 Oberschleissheim


page 40/43

New Pirani/Bayard-Alpert vacuum gauge

from Pfeiffer Vacuum ensures process

control and operational reliability

Many vacuum applications operate only

within a specific pressure range. In order

to operate such vacuum systems efficiently,

the total pressure must be measured reliably.

Therefore offers Pfeiffer Vacuum a large

product portfolio of measurement gauges

available both for a digital and analog output

signal. The analog vacuum gauges in the

ActiveLine have been upgraded to the latest

state-of-the-art with a successor model to

the PBR 260. The new gauge called PBR 360

covers the range from 5 x 10-10 to 1,000 hPa

and is characterized by its high measuring

accuracy.

Due to its compact design, the gauge

provides a space-saving way to incorpora-

te it in vacuum process systems, analytical

instruments, leak detection systems and

numerous other applications. Two filaments

offer enhanced operating reliability, process

control and longevity. Another advantage

is the higher accuracy compared to other

measuring principles. Existing accessories

for the predecessor model can still be used.

An attractive service concept with replaceable

sensors rounds off the profile of the PBR

360.

“Due to the redundancy of the filaments

and the attractive service concept, fewer

gauges are required over the same period

and can be repaired more often than replaced.

This contributes to preventing waste

New vacuum gauge from Pfeiffer Vacuum

ensures enhanced process control and

operational reliability.

and promoting a sustainable economy,” says

product manager Sedrick Njomou.

Pfeiffer Vacuum GmbH

D 35614 Asslar

The wall installation socket panels in the 8150/5-V88 series are expanding

the R. STAHL product portfolio for clean rooms

New socket panels for wall installation

R. STAHL expands its product portfolio

for socket panels. The socket panels in the

8150/5-V88 series have been developed for

applications whereby particle contamination

must be avoided. These can be installed

in hazardous areas in Zones 1 and 2 in

accordance with EN 60079-10-1 as well as

in Zones 21 and 22 in accordance with EN

60079-10-2.

Wall installation socket panels in the 8150/5-

V88 series for clean rooms (Picture: R. Stahl)

Background: The number of products and

the requirements for these that correspond

to hygiene standards are increasing, regardless

of whether it is pharmaceutical

products or components for micro-electronics

and microstructure technology that are

being manufactured. The only difference is

that while the pharmaceutical industry focuses

on human health, in the semiconductor

industry, particles shorten the service

life of components such as chips, LEDS or

touchscreens.

In production facilities for the products

mentioned here, portable devices such as

pumps, cleaning equipment, vacuums or

compressors must be connected safely. For

this reason, connectors and sockets in this

environment should meet the same two

conditions regarding protection: GMP requirements

and those for explosion protection.

The stainless steel socket panels in the

8150/5-V88 series have been specifically developed

for such applications. To eliminate

contamination by particles, the GMP-com-

pliant design was given top priority. This

includes biological and chemical resistance,

the absence of corners and edges and ease

of cleaning. This is achieved, for example,

through a high surface quality as well as a

smooth surface structure which means that

particles cannot adhere to the surfaces from

the outset.

Wall installation and the stainless steel

enclosure in AISI 316L with a covered sealing

system provide added security. Furthermore,

a locked switch prevents the

connector from being inadvertently pulled

out under load. The sockets are available in

different versions. Starting with the single or

duplex sockets with a current rating of 16 A

and/or 32 A through to a four-gang socket

panel for wall installation. The socket outlets

are, of course, available in different voltage

ranges. Certificates for ATEX, IECEx and

North America enable worldwide use.

R. STAHL Aktiengesellschaft

D 74638 Waldenburg


page 41/43

PharmaGuard – SÜDPACK Medica’s recyclable

blister concept – for added sustainability

Companies in the pharmaceutical, medical goods and life science industries are currently evaluating the packaging concepts

that are used for their products. The reason – they are taking a more sustainable position and many have committed to

science-based goals. And replacing packaging concepts that are not particularly environmentally friendly with a recyclable

alternative serves as a building block for improving their eco-balance.

17, A20, and at Partena S.P.A. in Hall 15, A02.

For optimum product protection and

maximum stability, the innovative material

structures can be equipped with different

barriers to suit the product to be packaged.

“As a base material, PP naturally offers an

outstanding water vapor barrier. Our coextrusion

process makes it possible to also

equip the material with barriers against oxygen

and UV rays,” added Michael Hermann.

Compared to the other PP-based blister

film solutions currently on the market, the

SÜDPACK solution also stands out due to

its very high transparency, which provides a

clear view of the product.

Maximum material efficiency and a more

favorable eco-balance

“At the moment, the legal situation in the

pharmaceutical industry does not require

compliance with recycling rates. Those who

switch to recyclable packaging concepts

now, however, are making an investment

in their image, which will give them a competitive

edge in the market,” emphasized

Michael Hermann, Head of Research & Development

at SÜDPACK Medica.

A blister concept with strong qualities

With its latest innovation, the PharmaGuard

blister concept, SÜDPACK is setting

standards in terms of both performance and

sustainability. The PP-based top and bottom

webs are manufactured in a unique coextrusion

process and are perfectly coordinated,

particularly when it comes to their sealing

performance. This guarantees not only the

highest packaging quality, but also maximum

safety in a highly efficient process.

The bottom web offers a large processing

window with excellent thermoforming

performance and uniform demolding behavior.

And despite the specific material

features of PP films, SÜDPACK customers

benefit in terms of processing as well. With

only minor modifications to existing packaging

lines, the materials can be processed

safely and with optimal performance. This

can be seen live in application for the first

time at the beginning of May at interpack in

Düsseldorf, at the IMA MAI S.A. booth, Hall

Thanks to the excellent material efficiency

and low density of PP, PharmaGuard saves

a considerable amount of resources while

maintaining high yields. As a complete

mono-material solution, it can be allocated

to existing material streams.

A life cycle assessment conducted by

Sphera has proven that the packaging concept

is associated with a greatly reduced

climate impact (in CO2-eq) as well as lower

energy and water consumption compared to

other popular blister solutions.

SÜDPACK customers who would like

to switch to a more sustainable packag-ing

concept are actively supported by the film

specialists at SÜDPACK Medica. Summing

up the philosophy of SÜDPACK Medica in

one concise sentence, Michael Hermann

said: “As a one-stop supplier, our goal is to

always offer customers the best possible alternative,

one that is tailored to their unique

requirements and from a single source – and

to implement an optimal solution with a fast

time-to-market.”

SÜDPACK Medica AG

CH 6341 Baar


page 42/43

Pfeiffer Vacuum publishes easy-to-understand videos that explain

how to choose the right measurement principle

Take a look inside a vacuum gauge

– The inner workings and functionality of vacuum gauges

– An introduction to all the relevant measurement principles

To assist in choosing the right measurement principle, Pfeiffer Vacuum

has made helpful explanatory videos that give a detailed insight

into the inner workings and functionality of vacuum gauges. If the

target vacuum is to be successfully measured and controlled, it is essential

to select the right measurement gauge.

“Pressures and pressure curves must be maintained with precision

if you wish to achieve optimal efficiency in production and the

highest level of product quality. Our vacuum gauges are important

quality indicators. Modern technology makes it possible to carry out

total pressure measurements from atmospheric pressure through to

ultra-high vacuum, covering all vacuum ranges precisely. We explain

the relevant measurement principles in five videos: From capacitive

through to piezo, Pirani, cold cathode and hot cathode measurement”,

explains Patrick Walther, Strategic Product Manager Instruments

at Pfeiffer Vacuum.

Important questions are addressed in detail: “How exactly does

physics apply in a vacuum gauge?” or “How can the properties of the

gas be used to deduce the total pressure?“

The video on capacitive vacuum measurement shows how the diaphragm

inside the gauge moves in relation to changes in the total

pressure.

In the case of piezo-resistive vacuum measurement, viewers learn

how the strain resistances in the diaphragm change depending

on the pressure. The video on Pirani vacuum measurement explains

how a thermal conductivity vacuum gauge works. It shows clearly

how the transfer of heat through the vacuum inside the gauge is

dependent on the total pressure. It also demonstrates how the heat

transfer and thus the displayed pressure depend on the type of gas.

The video on cold cathode vacuum measurement shows how gas

molecules are ionized by high-voltage electricity to create a plasma.

In the video on hot cathode vacuum measurement, you will see how

a hot cathode transmitter works and how the gas molecules are ionized

by electrons emitted from a hot heating filament.

Pfeiffer Vacuum GmbH

D 35614 Asslar

Pfeiffer Vacuum offers easy-to-understand videos that explain how to choose the right measurement principle

Impressum:

cleanroom online / W.A. Schuster GmbH · Mozartstrasse 45 · D 70180 Stuttgart · Tel. +49 711 9 64 03 50 · Fax +49 711 9 64 03 66

info@reinraum.de · www.cleanroom-online.de · GF Dipl.-Designer Reinhold Schuster · Stgt, HRB 14111 · VAT DE 147811997

Original texts and images

The contributions mentioned by name are the responsibility of the particular author. Reprinting, also of extracts, are permitted only with the approval of

the editor and with reference to the source. The publisher does not accept any responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and illustrations. The publisher

is granted the exclusive, spatial, temporal and contentual limited right to freely use the article in unchanged or edited form for all purposes as often as

desired or to transfer it to third parties for use. This right of use relates to print and electric media (Internet, databases, data carriers of all kinds).


page 43/43

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