At ALUMIL, we are continually seeking ways to enhance our production processes, and our participation in the European Research Project SMARTHANDLE is a key part of this commitment. This initiative focuses on improving productivity, flexibility, and sustainability in manufacturing, and we are proud to be a pilot case contributing to its aims.
Our specific involvement centres on developing an automated solution for our packaging line. In collaboration with the Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems & Automation of the University of Patras, we are designing a robotic arm for packaging heavy-duty, large-sized, and multi-variant aluminium profiles. This system is being developed for pilot testing at our Kilkis factory.
The broader SMARTHANDLE project envisions that automating packing processes with industrial robots will enhance productivity by enabling efficient and consistent transfer of profiles. Intelligent fixtures and machine learning algorithms are also being incorporated to improve system performance, particularly for new product variants. We believe our participation will contribute to refining our operations, supporting employee well-being, and reducing errors.
ALUMIL's Packaging Operations: A Snapshot
Our Packaging Department is a critical stage in preparing our aluminium profiles for safe transport and delivery. Operating in three shifts with 45 dedicated individuals, our team ensures products are protected from damage, maintaining their quality until final use.
Our mechanical equipment includes four automatic packaging lines and three smaller machines for specialised orders. All equipment applies protective film to visible surfaces, and we use a variety of materials—from intermediate paper and stretch film to corners and custom outer packaging—tailored to customer specifications. The LPDS application further streamlines our operations, managing parcel standardisation and material planning for efficiency and accuracy.
Current Status and Next Steps
Our immediate goal within SMARTHANDLE is to integrate the dual-arm robotic system for packaging heavyweight, large-sized multivariant aluminium profiles. The project is now entering its testing and evaluation phase, where the system will undergo testing and assessment to ensure it meets our goals for both operational efficiency and employee experience.
ALUMIL's ongoing focus on innovation, combined with our detailed approach to packaging, aims to ensure the excellent quality and professional delivery of our products. Our involvement in SMARTHANDLE reflects our commitment to continuous improvement in all aspects of our production.
