Material flow makes all the difference

The printing and packaging industry is facing increasing pressure due to rising costs, a shortage of skilled workers, and high demands for quality and delivery speed. To remain competitive, more and more companies are turning to the automation of existing production facilities. The focus here is not on full automation, but rather on the gradual optimization of individual processes.

Material Flow as a Key Factor in Efficiency

In Krifft & Zipsner’s experience, the greatest potential often lies in material flow. Manual transport and a lack of integration slow down production. “Our customers want to automate their production and turn it into a seamless, integrated process. But they are constantly faced with the question of how to implement this in practice: In other words, what is actually economically feasible? At what levels can you start? Where do you begin? And how can you upgrade the existing system while minimizing downtime?” says Valentino Parisi.

Implementing Automation Step by Step

The analysis and optimization of material flows and manufacturing processes are considered the foundation of successful automation. “Redesigning these processes is a task that requires a high degree of experience. And our outside perspective also helps us discover new approaches and possibilities,” reports Florian Nitschke,  Head of Product Management at Krifft & Zipsner. “To automate parts of this complex task, we are currently developing a tool that can simulate manufacturing processes and visualize the effects of changes. This also allows us to identify and eliminate bottlenecks.”

Krifft & Zipsner recommends a phased approach—from digitizing individual process steps, through the networking of equipment and the use of automated guided vehicles, to centralized material flow control. This project is divided into various service levels: 

• Logistics Components:The first level consists of the hardware for material flow. The company relies on in-house solutions such as pallet turners, conveyor systems, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), as well as automation solutions from other providers.
• System Integration:The second level involves integrating the material flow and production machinery into a functioning overall system.
• Control:The final step is to install a material flow control system for the entire intralogistics operation. This allows all processes and equipment—regardless of manufacturer—to be monitored, controlled, and integrated with other IT systems in real time through a single platform.

Only the combination of production facilities, conveyor systems, and automated guided vehicles enables an efficient, sustainable material flow.