Essentra extends global drive to all-electric machines to maximize quality and productivity
Essentra PLC, the global manufacturer of essential industrial components, has replaced its 55th hydraulic injection molding machine with a new electric model as part of its long-term investment program to upgrade its machine portfolio to become fully electric by the end of 2031.
The company is working with a small number of key equipment suppliers with global support networks to replace 180 machines that have been operating for 15-years or more (and currently heading towards the end of their working lives). The replacement machines are both all-electric and hybrid electric, the latter using Vireo servo drive technologies.
The machines, which are now installed at Essentra sites across the UK, the US, Brazil, Barcelona and China, are delivering a 30% reduction of energy consumed, cycle to cycle, and an improved overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) in excess of 85%. Cycle times have reduced by an average of 15% across all five countries.
The process and productivity improvements are effectively enabling three electric machines to do the work of four hydraulic models, reducing the overall footprint. The increased capacity is complemented by the guaranteed repeatability that electric machines can deliver, ensuring even greater product quality.
Chris Butler, Engineering Director, says the substantial investment is clearly paying off: “The increased capacity and reduced energy costs are exciting for both our business and customers alike. Electric machines are more reliable and last longer than their hydraulic counterparts, and deliver significantly greater productive hours per annum. With this performance, and greater automation, we are supporting even greater efficiencies for our customers.”
Essentra recently announced the opening of a new manufacturing facility in Monterrey with £1.28 million of investment in eight new machines. In October, the business also opened a new Centre of Excellence at its UK headquarters which included a further £110,000 in a bespoke electric machine.
Chris says Essentra remains committed to its investment ambitions: “We have plans to replace further hydraulic machinery in 2024, with more than £2.1 million allocated for the roll-out of new electric machines, focusing on replacing the oldest machines first as they reach the end of their useful working lives.”
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For further press information please contact:
Sean Feast
Gravity Global
sfeast@gravityglobal.com
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Notes to Editors
About Essentra Plc
Essentra Components is the trading name of Essentra Plc, a FTSE 250 market-leading global manufacturer and distributor of essential industrial components. Established in 1955, the business operates in 29 countries worldwide, with 14 manufacturing facilities, 34 distribution centers and 40 sales and service locations. Its wide range of 45,000 products serves more than 80,000 customers across a variety of applications in industries including equipment manufacturing, industrial electronics, fabrication, automotive and construction. For further information, please visit, www.essentracomponents.com or www.essentraplc.com.