Saving material and energy
The family is particularly proud of not only reaching but even exceeding the efficiency goals originally set. Various different factors are contributing to these results, for example shorter cycle times, reduced storage costs through just-in-time production, lower transport costs and higher material and energy efficiency.
- We need less masterbatch for dyeing the granulate - Renner explains. One reason for this is the high-precision dosing technology integrated into the system design by the Wittmann sales engineers. What is more, in the production of these drugstore items, granulate from direct sprue recycling can be reused in production with a ten percent share.
The SmartPower machine reaches its extremely high energy efficiency level thanks to ultra-modern servo hydraulics and the patented KERS system. This kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) transforms the kinetic energy of deceleration processes into electrical energy, which can subsequently be used, for example, for barrel heating. Wittmann offers this form of energy recovery also for servo-hydraulic injection molding machines as part of the standard equipment - a unique selling point to this day.
With a photovoltaic power generation system of its own, RING Kamm und Haarschmuck has also achieved partial independence from the electricity market.
Social commitment – a part of sustainability strategy
In-house production also very strongly supports the sustainability goals the family has set itself for their company and its products. - We purchase our raw materials from Europe. Together with our production in Germany, this makes for short transport distances and an extremely small CO2 footprint for our products - says Renner-Weigert. - Consumers are increasingly coming to appreciate this type of added value. We can guarantee that the materials processed by us are free of PBA and melamine, and in some cases even approved for contact with foodstuffs.
RING keeps a close watch on the development of new materials from non-fossil sources. Post-consumer recyclates are already being used today to produce combs, which do not require an approval for food safety. Another product line strongly in demand are bathroom accessories from the Natural series, which are made from bio-based raw materials such as liquid wood.
Social commitment is a part of the company’s sustainability strategy. The tooth mugs, tooth brush boxes and soap dishes manufactured on the new Wittmann production cell are transported to neighboring sheltered workshops in large cartons. In these establishments, the products are labeled and packaged ready to sell.
With its decision to return production to its own premises, RING Kamm und Haarschmuck has strengthened its competitive position on a long-term basis. - Our largest competitors are located in Asia. With our new production strategy, we are able to offer competitive unit costs even compared with China - Stephanie Renner emphas. - That has only become possible because we have taken this course of action.
