Inteplast Group relies on NDC thickness gauge technology

Brückner Servtec supplies advanced thickness measurement solutions 

The Inteplast Group operates six film stretching lines to produce BOPP packaging film in Lolita, Texas. In order to ensure modern production standards, safe working environments and mainly to extend the service life of equipment, Inteplast has recently relied on Brückner Servtec’s expertise to retrofit two thickness gauges on its two Brückner BOPP lines.  

Implementation of future-proof and resilient technology  

As part of Inteplast's ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, an opportunity to enhance the measurement process was identified. The previous Thermo Fisher thickness gauges on both lines utilized a measuring head with a radioactive source, which had a limited source energy due to its half-life. This limitation, coupled with potential measurement inaccuracies, could impact the precision of film production. To address this, Inteplast proactively reached out to Brückner Servtec to upgrade and refine the system, ensuring more accurate and reliable measurements moving forward.  

As a comprehensive and safe solution, Brückner Servtec, offered a thickness gauge retrofit from the supplier Nordson Measurement & Control (NDC) to replace the radioactive emitter. NDC thickness scanners use infrared technology and, in combination with Brückner’s latest thickness control software (TCE 2.0), allow for more precise measurements, increased safety and improved film quality.  

Convinced by the proven NDC technology during previous line upgrades, an electrical NDC upgrade was carried out at the same time on another Inteplast film stretching line (Cellier system) to ensure unified and state-of-the-art software technology.  

Exceptional support fosters a long-term partnership 

Thanks to the local equity Brückner Group USA the NDC Upgrades have mainly been carried out by our US colleagues, who were able to respond quickly to various challenges and offer solutions until the two production lines have successfully been recommissioned together with the Inteplast team. Above all, the close cooperation not only increased the project efficiency, but also (re)strengthened Inteplast's trust and satisfaction in Brückner’s expertise and technology, as the following feedback from Gary Zhao (Electrical Engineer, Inteplast) and William de la Rosa (Electrical Maintenance Supervisor, Inteplast) proves: "We’ve received exceptional support by Brückner’s engineering team during the recent upgrades of our NDC systems and are truly impressed by their commitment to delivering high-quality results. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with your company."  

Regarding the local project realization by Brückner Group USA, Ben Sandelowsky, Vice President of Service, Brückner Group USA, adds: "Our on-site team is a unique selling point which differentiates us from our competition and continues to build our reputation in all markets. This project is a great example of our global connection and local execution! Thanks to Inteplast for their continued trust in us!". 

All in all, Inteplast now has the same resilient technology in all six production lines, resulting in a reduced need for spare parts, easier maintenance for the workforce, as well as greater operational reliability. Furthermore, they can now rely on the innovative thickness measurement control, which meets the highest requirements of their film quality, thus securing BOPP film production for years to come.  

More information about precise thickness measurement and upgrade improvements can be found in our TEC Talk in the Member Area.