In the future, economic success will be increasingly determined by the networking of the digital world with the world of production processes and new products. Challenges that require a creative pioneering spirit and are also a topic at K 2019.
We have worked with Erhard Wienkamp, who has been responsible for the global portfolio of plastics and rubber trade fairs at Messe Düsseldorf since 2015, among other things, and asked him how K 2019, with its well-rounded portfolio, creates the global stage for successful participation.
pj: Mr Wienkamp, do you see a decline in participation among the strongly export-oriented exhibitors due to the weakening economy and global conflicts?
Erhard Wienkamp: Of course, we can see that in some areas, after ten years of constant growth and record sales, a turning point now seems to have been reached. The VDMA speaks of ten per cent Decline in orders However, as far as K 2019 is concerned, it has been fully booked since May 2018.
pj: What is the focus of K 2019?
Erhard Wienkamp: K 2019 has four key themes that reflect current hot topics in the industry and have been defined by experts and scientists from the K 2019 Innovation Circle. The first focus is Plastics for Sustainable Development & Circular Economy, means thinking and acting sustainably. The circular economy plays a central role in the fight against plastic waste. The second focus will be the increasing Digitisation of the value chain, which Industry 4.0, be. It is about implementing intelligent algorithms for the smart self-optimisation of machines or optimising the human-machine interface.
The third focus will be System integration: functionality through material, process and design be, with new materials and additive manufacturing, lightweight construction, mobility (e-mobility) and biopolymers. Lightweight construction plays an important role in reducing energy and fuel consumption. Additive manufacturing is moving towards large-scale production. The fourth focal point will be Promotion of young talent be.
Circular Economy
pj: According to experts, more than 30 per cent of all plastic packaging does not end up in a recycling centre. organised recycling cycle. How will the problem be tackled at the trade fair?
Erhard Wienkamp: The circular economy, and therefore also recycling, is a key theme of the trade fair. Special shows are focussed on sustainability and the circular economy. For example, as part of the special show Plastics Shape The Future under the auspices of PlasticsEurope the theme days Plastics for sustainable development and Plastics between the circular economy and marine litter. In the specially constructed pavilion, the VDMA Circular Economy Forum demonstrate all the stages of a functioning circulatory system and provide space for dialogue.
Alternative bioplastics?
pj: Bioplastics offer alternatives to conventional polymers. How important will they be at K 2019?
Erhard Wienkamp: According to forecasts by European Bioplastics e. V. and the nova-Institute, the global production volume is expected to grow by around 20 per cent by 2022 compared to 2017. The trend towards bio-based and biodegradable plastics is seen as a response to the global waste problem and increasing environmental regulations. Bioplastics are the main product category for many exhibitors, with other exhibitors also offering bioplastics. In cooperation with Bioplastics Magazine, K 2019 is also organising the Bioplastics Business Breakfasts over four days at the CCD Congress Centre Düsseldorf-Süd.
pj: What role will the additive manufacturing play at the K 2019?
Erhard Wienkamp: Additive manufacturing leads to significant optimisation of the process with faster generative production methods, lower system costs and better process controls. The latest developments will be on show at the trade fair. The presentation by FabLab Lübeck e. V. will be exciting as part of the special show Plastics Shape The Future. A humanoid robot will be presented whose individual parts are manufactured entirely using 3D printing and assembled on site.
[infotext icon] K 2019 and careerK 2019 also serves as a platform for young talent for industry, science and practical training. The Plastics Training Initiative, in short kai summarises all important events with a special educational background and provides this service to all visitors who want to use K 2019 as a training and career information platform. [/infotext]
