Kurtz Ersa winner of the Bavarian Energy Award 2020
Award for radiofrequency technology of Kurtz GmbH
Kreuzwertheim/München, 22.10.2020
Every two years, the State of Bavaria awards the “Bavarian Energy Prize” for outstanding achievements in the field of energy. After Kurtz GmbH had prevailed over its competitors in the category “Energy Efficiency in Industrial Processes and Production as well as Energy Efficiency Networks”, it was now also able to accept the main award from eight prize-winner categories during a ceremonial presentation in Munich with the Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs, Hubert Aiwanger. The RF technology convinced the expert jury with the project “Chemical-free recycling of EPS material by RF fusion technology”. Kurtz Ersa CEO Rainer Kurtz is extremely pleased about the award: “Fusing particle foams by electromagnetic waves is highly promising and revolutionizes the production of molded parts. The award of the main prize is both an honor and an incentive at the same time and a welcome component of our ambitious sustainability program.”
RF fusion technology saves 90% energy
The plastics industry has been looking for alternative manufacturing processes for years. The fusion of particle foams using highly efficient radiofrequency technology is revolutionizing processing under sustainability aspects. Compared to the manufacturing process using steam, up to 90% of energy can be saved. By eliminating the previously necessary steam generation equipment, it is possible to significantly improve the CO2 footprint of particle foam manufacturers. The machine is also equipped with a fully electric drive. The use of electromagnetic waves in the radiofrequency range ensures optimal fusion. In addition, new materials and biodegradable materials can be processed. This processing was not feasible in standard machines due to the high pressures required. Top advantage of the RF fusion technology: Only by mechanical “shredding” can the particle foam material be returned to the cycle. The WAVE FOAMER convinces with a reusability of up to 100%. With EPS in the previous steam process, only a maximum of 20% recycled material can be reused.