VPK Packaging Belgium has commissioned a new 2.80 metre wide BHS corrugator at its site in Erembodegem. The investment marks an important milestone on the company's path to sustainable growth and higher production capacity.
The new system replaces the previous 2.50 metre machine and was installed at the same location - without interrupting production. Thanks to precise planning, well thought-out logistics and the commitment of the employees, the conversion was completed in just seven weeks, according to the company. „This investment is not only a technical milestone, but also proof of what internal collaboration can achieve,“ said Tony Reunes, Operations Director Corrugated Board BE & NL.
With the new BHS system, VPK wants to increase production from the current 100 to 170 million square metres of corrugated board. According to the company, the technology enables higher product quality thanks to precise adhesive temperature control, fewer rejects thanks to more efficient processes and improved reliability thanks to an integrated zero-defect system. Delivery times should also be reduced thanks to the increased capacity. „With this upgrade, we can react faster, deliver better and produce more sustainably,“ says Reunes.
Teamwork and future strategy
According to VPK, the cooperation between employees and external partners was crucial to the successful conversion. Their flexibility and the modular system concept contributed to the project being completed ahead of schedule.
Together with the latest investment in a Bobst four-colour casemaker in Oudegem, VPK is reaffirming its long-term strategy of continuously investing in technology, sustainability and customer benefits. As a next step, the company plans to increase the capacity of the rotary die-cutting tower to 120 million square metres through three-shift operation - an intermediate step on the way to the target of 170 million square metres in Erembodegem. „This investment marks a strategic step towards higher capacity, better performance and a stronger customer focus,“ emphasised Reunes.
Source: VPK Packaging
