Threading a sustainable path for the future

23 October, 2023

Established in 1987 by entrepreneur Antonio Montanari, the company initially focused on manufacturing hydraulic bends. However, it was a strategic decision to acquire the operations of an elderly plastic polymer moulder that allowed DLM to develop the first moulds for plastic polymer caps, primarily designed to safeguard threads on hydraulic bends.

Today, DLM exclusively specialises in producing protective caps. While a significant portion of its production, 55%, is exported globally, many pieces sold in Italy find their way abroad as integrated components. This trend mirrors the broader Italian production landscape in the fluid power component sector. According to the 2021 report from Federtec, the association representing Italy’s fluid power component industry, over 60% of national production in this sector transcends international borders.

DLM’s customer-centric approach is highlighted by its 3000m2 logistics centre, operating around the clock, 365 days a year, processing orders within 48 hours. Customers can access a wide catalogue of offerings, including caps, flange protections, and caps for painting, available in various dimensional variations. For those seeking custom solutions, DLM’s technical office collaborates closely with the tooling department to provide tailor-made products

The Green Line Stoppers initiative

DLM is committed to reducing its environmental footprint, mindful of the impact on families, children, and future generations. To fulfil this commitment, the company explored three alternatives: biodegradable materials, bioplastics, and recycled plastics. After 18 months of extensive testing, DLM’s technologists concluded that neither biodegradables nor bioplastics fully met its environmental criteria. Biodegradable materials require specific disposal methods, disrupting circularity, while bioplastics faced limitations in availability and resource use.

DLM’s chosen path involves the use of second-life and recyclable plastic materials. The Green Line closures, certified by the IPPR (Institute for the Promotion of Recycling Plastics) with the “Plastic Second Life” brand, are now available. The Green Line is expected to replace all DLM products in the near future.

Sustainable manufacturing process

The company’s commitment to sustainability extends to its manufacturing processes. DLM has introduced 25 new hybrid injection presses, enhancing efficiency and achieving an impressive 30% reduction in energy consumption per kilogram of processed material/product.

In addition, DLM has replaced conventional refrigeration and compressors with energy-efficient appliances and installed 300 kWp of solar panels, contributing to 35% of the company’s energy needs. These initiatives have led to a substantial reduction in electricity consumption, from 3.17 kWh/kg to 1.99 kWh/kg.

Furthermore, to enhance production processes, DLM implemented hot runner injection moulds, which eliminate sprues (processing waste), and dosers capable of directly imparting colour to the product. These have resulted in significant annual savings, with 12,170 kg less scrap and a corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions by 18,680 kg equivalent for moulds and 4500 kg less material preparation waste, leading to a CO2 reduction of 6920 kg equivalent for mixers.

DLM’s journey reflects its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and environmental responsibility, and its efforts in developing sustainable thread protection systems underscore the significance of environmentally conscious practices in the industrial sector.

For further information please visit: www.dlmtappi.com

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