Reifenhäuser and RE: - strong partners for the digitalization journey of film and nonwoven producers
The OEE of an asset is calculated based on the formula OEE = availability x performance x quality. Plastics processors and packaging producers use this formula to identify potential improvements for their processes. The goal is to optimize production so that all extrusion lines as well as peripheral equipment run at optimum speed and throughput with the lowest possible downtimes as well as scrap rates. "Meeting all these requirements is difficult, especially with heterogeneous production sites," says Daniel Kajan, Director Product & Operations at RE: GmbH. "There is often a lack of resilient data that is needed to make sound decisions. We empower our customers with valuable digital tools that provide entirely new insights and help them compete in a rapidly changing market."
From manufacturer to solution provider - our holistic approach
RE: GmbH not only focuses on Reifenhäuser extrusion lines, but rather follows a fully integrated approach. "We understand that our customers are looking for more than just the best application for one machine - they need a solution for their entire production, no matter how heterogeneous it may be," says Kajan. "Our c.Hub Middleware connects the entire "mixed forest" of plastics processing. That includes assets from different vendors, ages and types, as well as ERP and MES systems and peripherals," states Kajan.
About RE: GmbH
RE: GmbH is a tech start-up of the Reifenhäuser Group, specialized in digital solutions for the plastics extrusion and packaging industry. Its goal is to support producers on their digitization journey by leveraging its profound industry and software know-how. In close cooperation with the business units of the Reifenhäuser Group, the experts of RE: develop cutting-edge solutions for the most pressing challenges of the industry.
How does the digital ecosystem work?
Sustainably optimizing production processes
At the heart of the digital portfolio are the c.Hub Middleware and the accompanying ExtrusionOS Suite – a powerful duo that helps customers significantly enhance their Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and better utilize their resources. The c.Hub Middleware was specifically designed for the needs of the plastic extrusion and packaging industry. It connects intricate production landscapes, providing transparency to data that was previously hidden or difficult to access. Customers benefit from a new, holistic view of their production. While the c.Hub Middleware lays the foundation for successful data analysis, the ExtrusionOS Suite offers tailored applications specific to the industry's requirements. This includes tools for visualization, analysis, and optimization of real-time data.
The digital solutions of Reifenhäuser set the foundation for a new dimension in process optimization – from the first to the last meter of the produced roll. Producers can, for example, monitor critical process parameters in real-time, from extruder temperatures to roll speeds. This enables them to identify and rectify deviations before they become issues. Here are some more examples of key features of ExtrusionOS:
1
Monitoring
Customers can virtually monitor production across multiple factories and track critical parameters for each facility in real-time. Whether at home, in the office, or on business trips, they have access from anywhere, ensuring production always operates at peak efficiency.
2
Data Analysis
ExtrusionOS provides producers with powerful analysis tools to gain valuable insights from their process data. This allows them to analyze all data, from roller profiles to material consumption, unlocking new potentials and enhancing their production.
3
Reporting
The reporting feature makes it easy and reliable to generate quality control reports and comply with EFSA/FDA regulations. This ensures that producers' processes consistently align with the relevant standards and are properly documented.
4
Notifications
ExtrusionOS also offers real-time alerts for deviations from set thresholds, such as temperature or pressure fluctuations. This enables packaging manufacturers to quickly respond to critical events in their production, minimizing downtime.
Here are some practical examples of the benefits of digital solutions in plastics extrusion.
You would also like to benefit from our digital solutions? Then contact us via the RE: GmbH website
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