This summer, at a cost of over three million euros, packaging and display manufacturer Thimm installed a new flat-bed die-cutting press at its Castrop-Rauxel production site in Germany, one of the Group's 13 locations. Thimm thus sets "a new milestone in the realization of its vision for the digitization of the Internet of Packs", announces the group, which generates sales of 723 million euros.
With speeds of up to 7,000 insertions per hour and quick set-ups, Bobst's Mastercut 2.1, with a web width of 2.10 meters, considerably increases the production capacity of the Castrop-Rauxel mill. The diecutter will be able to convert up to 25 million m2 of corrugated board into packaging every year.
Even on pre-printed corrugated boards, the autoplaten is able to adjust the die-cutting to each individual plate, thanks to the Power Register non-contact sheet registration system, which detects print marks.
Towards fully digitized supply chains
For Kornelius Thimm, Thimm's CEO, this cutting press is a perfect fit with the company's digitization strategy.
"We see digitization as a key success factor for future growth, and therefore want to network all processes, both in our factories and elsewhere, and especially with our customers. Our vision is the Internet of Packs, i.e. fully digitized supply chains offering perfect traceability with all types of products, thanks to digitally printed packaging.
As a result, our customers benefit from fast deliveries, sustainable production processes and flexible print layouts, with no minimum order quantities."
Kornelius Thimm adds: "After commissioning, the facility was performing well, enabling three teams to operate it at full capacity from September and produce top-quality packaging for our customers."
To install the new 55-tonne machine, major earthworks and foundation work costing 400,000 euros were carried out. 500 m 2 of reinforced concrete were demolished and a new slab was poured to ensure the stability of the imposing Mastercut.
