Trays and quiet wheels

“Our production processes are precisely timed,” says Enver Etemi, looking with satisfaction at the telephone components that fall onto the conveyor belt every second. The production line runs behind glass, where robots provide the plastic with display panels. Up to 900 tons of plastic per year are processed at the Gigaset plant in Bocholt. In addition, 10 to 12 million printed circuit boards are produced each year.

The result: cordless phones, smart home solutions and smartphones “Made in Germany”. “To ensure that everything runs smoothly, we constantly check the work processes,” reports Etemi. He knows the processes down to the smallest detail. In 1991, he came to the plant as an apprentice, worked as a machine operator and now heads up maintenance. He ensures that the work processes are designed economically and that the machines run smoothly. He and his team have to rectify any faults that occur immediately. “Otherwise it can quickly become expensive.”

The plastic parts and printed circuit boards are placed in stackable trays. Once a stack is full, it is lifted out of the machine guide with the help of an EXPRESSO lift2move and transferred to racks, from where it is transported to the next work station. Since 1997, EXPRESSO’s loading lifts have ensured fast and easy handling of stacks. By remote control, the stack can be positioned exactly at the right height and safely unloaded in the rack. “The lifts save us an enormous amount of time in the process,” says Etemi. “We can then put the time we save to good use elsewhere.” Special smooth-running rollers allow the lift2move to be moved maneuverably and quietly even without an electric drive. The rollers are also ESD-conductive as standard. In combination with the ESD-compliant load receptacle, the lift2move offers protection against electrostatic discharge. “This is particularly important here, where plastic and electronic components are processed,” emphasizes the maintenance specialist. “A clean and dust-free working environment is also part of it.” Time and again, Etemi and his team are testing new processes to increase productivity.

Employees are actively involved in the process. “Our test runs in practice quickly show whether a change in the process promises success,” he knows from many years of experience. In addition, EXPRESSO field representative Jürgen Neumann helps to develop special solutions that have to be precisely tailored to the conditions in the plant. Even if things have to move quickly, Etemi can rely on the consultant. If something has to be modified on the lift or a spare part has to be replaced, Neumann is quickly on site and, if necessary, brings a service technician with him. Enver Etemi greatly appreciates EXPRESSO’s field service with its comprehensive service and personal advice including readiness for action. “This creates a clear added value,” he is convinced.