Economy & Market

Hannover Fair with CeMAT | Packaging and logistics for tomorrow

Published

8 years ago

February 28, 2018

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This year, the Messe is being held concurrently with CeMAT 2018, a reputed logistics, packaging and supply chain event, and therefore, this joint congregation is expected to draw an even larger level of attention.
Hannover Messe is undoubtedly the flagship trade fair in the world on industrial products, held every year in April, in the trade fair city of Hannover in Germany. In fact, this fair is as important to Industrial Products, as Olympics are to Sports ! Like in previous years, this year too, the Deutsche Messe Team organised a preview of the fair on 6th February, to showcase a few selected exhibitors and exhibits, the ones which might hog the limelight in the fair proper. Domain-specialist journalists from all over the world participated in this event. The obvious objective of such a preview is to gain global traction for the forthcoming fair itself, by highlighting the items that might be of special interest to the potential visitors.
This year, the Messe is being held concurrently with CeMAT 2018, a reputed logistics, packaging and supply chain event, and therefore, this joint congregation is expected to draw an even larger level of attention. Almost forgot to mention that this year Mexico is the partner country for the exhibition. So, while walls may be coming up on their US border, doors are opening up for Mexico, in Europe, evidenced by the fact that number of Mexican exhibitors has gone up from a mere 5 in the past, to more than 150 in this edition of the fair. Primarily, Mexico’s presentations will be expected to promote investments into that country.
A few words regarding CeMAT (being held concurrently) will be in order. CeMAT as an event, represents the function of intralogistics and supply-chain management. While the flagship CeMAT Fair is held in Hannover, there are seven sister events held worldwide throughout the year according to a calendar. What to expect in a CeMAT exhibition? A CeMAT show covers every area of logistics. Its scope includes energy saving fork lifts and industrial trucks, fully automated handling systems, hoists and working platforms, ingenious racks and warehousing systems, the latest in control systems, logistics IT, and everything else that falls in between. Other key highlights may include cranes and lifting equipment, access platforms, auto ID systems, robotic logistic solutions and packaging technologies.
This year, there were in all 38 exhibits in the preview, and at least a good four or five of them showcased logistics related products or services. The presentations by Toyota and SAP come to mind in the logistics space. Latest offerings to optimise supply chains will be of great interest to Indian visitors to the fair, since our country is currently going through a period of transformation in logistics, what with implementation of GST, blooming of e commerce and e tailing activities and gradual improvement of infrastructure. ‘Factories of the Future’, famously ascribed the strategic name of Industrie 4.0 in earlier editions of Hannover Fairs, need Logistics 4.0 in order to be successful, and it is only expected that concurrent holding of CeMAT will provide invaluable inputs to supply-chain practitioners. For example, concepts like ‘Autonomous Fork Lift Trucks’ hold the promise of revolutionising warehouse mechanics for good. Cement industry being highly logistics-intensive, the industry players may get an idea or two from this two-in-one fair, particularly from CeMAT, which focuses on automation in packaging and logistics.
This need of collaboration between manufacturing and logistics is truly reflected in this year’s lead theme, which is Connect and Collaborate, and I found this expression beautiful, in the sense that this could also be hinting at collaboration between the machine and the man, people and robots, besides talking about the synergy between ‘state of the art’ manufacturing and ‘state of the art’ packaging/logistics. It will be very very interesting to discover, how this theme expresses itself in the full version of the fair including CeMAT, in April.
Now, talking about some specific items on display, I was as usual, impressed by the functional innovation of Ziehl ? Abegg, who showcased the ‘ZAcube Modular Fan System for efficient retrofitting of ventilation installations. We can get an idea of the equipment from the accompanying photograph. As design parameters and thermal loads for airconditioning and ventilation systems may change over time, this solution eliminates the need for total change of fans and drives, by introducing modular concept of fans.
Also have a look at the manual pallet lift truck ( photograph here ) which, the manufacturers (Clark Europe GmbH) claim to be the first ever Lithium-Ion Battery operated device for storage/handling solutions, which has the potential to reduce the recharge frequencies.
There was a highly captivating demonstration of the possibility of autonomous and automated robotic technology for warehouse material handling, which straightaway belong to realm of the future, the ‘Factories of the Future’. This was a demo product of a start up company from Munich, Germany, called Magazino, and this seems to hold immense possibilities for the future.
Lastly, one can learn from the interesting exhibit of Toyota Material Handling whereby Toyota brings out the essence of their famed Toyota Production System (TPS) and how the same thinking can be applied achieve maximum efficiency in logistics operations.
On the whole, my takeaway from the preview was rather down to earth, and not euphoric. There was no great new startling innovation in terms of any new products or processes seen on display. However, I must hasten to add, that outstanding efforts were visible in innovative applications, optimisation and integration of known hardware and/or software possibilities, all of which can potentially help deliver much more than just incremental improvements in factories and supply chains. I must submit in conclusion, that in these exhibits that were on show, the innovation lies in thinking, conceptualising and then implementing wonderfully integrative manufacturing strategies deploying a combination of already available cutting edge technologies.

Economy & Market

Fornnax launches world’s biggest secondary/fine shredder for AFR pre-processing

Published

1 week ago

November 7, 2025

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Fornnax has introduced its latest breakthrough – the R-MAX3300, for handling low-density waste streams, offering a powerful solution for cement AFR plants.

Fornnax Technology has launched its latest breakthrough – the R-MAX3300, the biggest secondary shredder in its class. The unveiling took place on 14th October, 2025 at IFAT India 2025 in Mumbai, one of the most prestigious events for environmental technologies, waste management, and sustainable resource innovation.

The launch ceremony was graced by esteemed industry leaders and dignitaries. The guest list included Md Fahim Sopariwala, CEO, GEPIL India; Sridhar Jagannathan, Vice President, Zigma Global; Priyesh Bhatti, CEO, GEPIL India; Shailendra Singh, Deputy General Manager, Prism Johnson (Cement Division); Ulhas Parlikar, Global Consultant, Waste Management, Circular Economy, Policy Advocacy and Co-processing; Saurabh Palsania, Joint President (Strategic Sourcing), Shree Cement; Rajeev Patel, DGM (Process), Mangalam Cement; and Anumodan Kumar Dubey, Mangalam Cement.

This state-of-the-art equipment represents a significant advancement for India’s recycling and waste processing landscape, offering a powerful solution for cement AFR plants and waste-to-energy facilities.

Building on the proven performance and legacy of the R Series secondary shredder, which has long been trusted for high-density materials like tyres and cables, the newly introduced R-MAX3300 is specifically engineered for handling low-density waste streams. These include Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), Commercial and Industrial (C&I) waste, Bulky waste, Legacy waste, Wood waste, and Construction & Demolition (C&D) waste.

By incorporating advanced shredding technology, the R-MAX3300 enables seamless and highly efficient production of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) and Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF) within the ideal particle size range of 30 to 50 mm. Its design prioritises versatility, durability and superior performance, directly supporting industrial operations that demand consistency and scale.

“The R-MAX3300 represents a monumental leap forward in our vision to become a global leader by 2030 in recycling technology through innovation,” said Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO, Fornnax Technology. “With the rising challenges of waste management in India and globally, this machine is not just a product; it’s a powerful tool for change. We engineered it to handle the most difficult waste streams with unparalleled efficiency, turning what was once considered unusable waste into a valuable resource. It directly addresses the urgent demand for effective, large-scale shredding technology that can support cement kilns and waste-to-energy facilities in achieving the desired output,” he added.

The launch of the R-MAX3300 arrives at a pivotal moment. India currently generates over 160,000 tons of municipal solid waste daily, while government-led initiatives such as Swachh Bharat Mission and Smart Cities are accelerating the demand for RDF and waste-to-energy solutions. Simultaneously, the global industrial shredder market is expected to grow at a 5–6 per cent CAGR, driven by stricter recycling regulations and increasing waste generation.

Kundaria further emphasised, “Our commitment goes beyond just selling machinery; it’s about empowering our customers to achieve lasting efficiency, sustainability, and growth. We see ourselves as a trusted partner who stands beside them at every step – from technology deployment to ongoing support, ensuring they can rely on Fornnax not only for performance but also for consistency, dependability, and long-term value.”

The R-MAX3300 is equipped to handle high-throughput processing of pre-shredded or coarse materials, making it ideal for SRF/RDF production, composting pre-treatment, and volume reduction for logistics optimisation. It is expected to play a crucial role in Integrated Waste Management Projects (IWMP) and bio-mining operations both within India and globally.

With this grand launch, Fornnax continues to set global benchmark and move decisively towards the vision of becoming global leader in recycling technology by 2030 that is state-of-the-art, innovative, economical, efficient reliable and eco-friendly.

Concrete

Fornnax wins Top Domestic Sales Award 2024-25 by AIRIA

Published

1 week ago

November 7, 2025

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Fornnax bags the Excellence in Top Domestic Sales Award 2024–25 by the All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA).

The company has been honoured with the Excellence in Top Domestic Sales Award 2024–25 by the All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA) under the Rubber Machineries and Equipment category. The award recognises Fornnax’s exceptional market leadership, strong sales performance and continued commitment to sustainable innovation.

With over a decade of specialised expertise, Fornnax has emerged as a transformative force in India’s tyre recycling sector, commanding nearly 90 per cent of the domestic market while steadily expanding across Europe, Australia, the GCC, and other global regions.

Fornnax’s advanced recycling systems—comprising the SR-Series Primary Shredders, R-Series Secondary Shredders, and TR-Series Granulators—are engineered for durability, efficiency, and high-output performance. These technologies are widely deployed in end-of-life tyre (ELT) processing and other waste management applications, reinforcing Fornnax’s reputation as a trusted industry partner.

Expressing his gratitude, Jignesh Kundaria, Director & CEO, Fornnax, said, “We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition from AIRIA. This award validates the trust that our customers and partners have placed in us over the years. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our clients and partners who have been an integral part of this journey and our continued success. At Fornnax, our goal has always been to empower the recycling industry with innovative, high-performance solutions that make sustainability both achievable and profitable.”

The award also underscores Fornnax’s pivotal role in promoting circular economy practices by enabling the conversion of end-of-life tyres and rubber waste into reusable raw materials. Through ongoing R&D, new product innovation, and a solutions-driven approach, the company continues to help industries worldwide adopt eco-conscious, scalable recycling models.

As India’s recycling landscape evolves to meet global sustainability benchmarks, Fornnax stands at the forefront with internationally certified technology, a proven track record, and a clear vision for environmentally responsible growth.

Concrete

Pacific Avenue Completes Acquisition of FLSmidth Cement; Rebrands as Fuller Technologies

Published

2 weeks ago

November 4, 2025

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The acquisition of FLSmidth Cement by Pacific Avenue Capital Partners marks a new phase of focused growth and innovation.
Rebranded as Fuller® Technologies, the company will continue delivering world-class solutions with renewed investment and direction.

Pacific Avenue Capital Partners (“Pacific Avenue”), a global private equity firm, has completed its acquisition of FLSmidth Cement following the fulfillment of all customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. The transaction includes all of FLSmidth Cement’s intellectual property, technology, employees, manufacturing facilities, and global sales and service organizations.

As Fuller Technologies, the company will continue to seamlessly support its customers while advancing its robust portfolio of capital equipment, digital solutions, and service offerings. With a sharpened focus on Pyro and Grinding technologies, alongside core brands such as PFISTER®, Ventomatic®, Pneumatic Conveying, and Automation, Fuller Technologies aims to deliver enhanced value and reliability across the cement and industrial sectors.

Under Pacific Avenue’s ownership, Fuller Technologies will benefit from increased investment in people, products, and innovation. The dedicated management team will work to optimize operations and strengthen customer relationships, ensuring continuity and excellence during this exciting transition.

“We are proud to be the new owner of FLSmidth Cement, now Fuller Technologies, a global leader with a rich history of providing mission-critical equipment and aftermarket solutions in the cement and industrial sectors. We will continue to build upon the Company’s legacy of being at the forefront of technological innovation, service delivery, and product quality as we support our customers’ operations,” says Chris Sznewajs, Managing Partner and Founder of Pacific Avenue Capital Partners.

Pacific Avenue’s deep experience in executing complex industrial carve-outs and guiding standalone businesses into their next growth phase will be instrumental in shaping Fuller Technologies’ future. With a proven track record in building products and capital equipment industries, Pacific Avenue is poised to help Fuller Technologies optimize performance, accelerate growth, and create long-term value for its customers and stakeholders worldwide.