In order to further improve the capacity and efficiency for manufacturing conveyor belts between 1200 and 1600mm wide, Dunlop Conveyor Belting are currently installing a new, state-of-the-art vulcanising press that represents an investment of nearly 3 million euros. The building of completely new, extra-strong foundations for the press, which measures 10 metres long and weighs a staggering 300 tonnes, have now been completed.
The press, which has been designed and built to Dunlop’s precise specifications, has already been assembled and pre-tested by the manufacturer before being dismantled and shipped to Dunlop’s manufacturing plant in Drachten in the Netherlands. The main body of the press has arrived and been installed in the meantime. Total installation, which will include a further intensive period of testing and calibration, will take between 4 to 6 weeks.
Manufacturing Director Michiel Eijpe explains that there are more than just improved production efficiencies that are being gained. “The press has very advanced safety features including laser-light ‘trip’ beams that immediately stop the press if they are interrupted”.
To many people, such a significant investment may seem rather surprising considering the current economic climate but Managing Director Edwin Have remains convinced that it is the right thing to do. “We are determined to continually improve our manufacturing capabilities, both in terms of quality and efficiency. In fact it is probably more important than ever that we make this kind of investment, which we believe will be beneficial for our employees and our customers. When the economy revives, as it surely will, then we must make sure that we can meet the increased demand”.
