Revolution in production: Automation is conquering the plastics industry!

Revolution in production: Automation is conquering the plastics industry!

On June 22, 2025, several industry players will report on current developments in automation and plastics processing. In particular, the Spanish company Cortizo has made great strides in automating the extrusion of door and window profiles. The automation includes all process steps from the production of the dry blend through extrusion to stacking and film lamination. This reflects the trend that is emerging across the industry: the integration of modern technologies to increase efficiency.

Another important player in plastics processing is AST Plastics Processing. This company specializes in the production of hollow bodies with a volume of up to 1,000 liters. AST also plans to develop new hazardous goods containers and invest in building its own blow molding machines. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to provide innovative solutions to market needs.

Innovative production processes

World market leader Agathon, known for its chocolate molds, has also redesigned its production processes. The new processes include not only injection molding, but also automation, material supply and logistics. These steps are crucial in order to meet changing customer requirements and ensure competitiveness, as K-PROFI explains in its current issue 5/2025 ( K-current ).

In addition, Flexilient Automation is becoming increasingly important. This focuses on adapting manufacturing systems in order to be able to react quickly and efficiently to dynamic requirements. The implementation of adaptive automation solutions enables companies to flexibly convert their production processes without having to take long changeover times into account. Such solutions are particularly relevant to today's rapidly changing market landscape.

Artificial intelligence in automation

The integration of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into the automated processes ensures that they can be better tailored to individual user preferences. These approaches are central to the development of innovative concepts for the digitalization of production processes, as shown on the website of the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Engineering and Automation ( Fraunhofer IKS ).

Another important aspect of modern automation is the so-called Reliable Human Centered Automation. Care is taken to ensure that automation systems interact closely with the needs and capabilities of the users. In addition, flexible quality inspection systems enable a redefinition of quality assurance in order to be able to work efficiently even with smaller production batch sizes and varying raw materials.

This innovative approach is supported by the use of sensors for early error detection, allowing companies to dynamically adapt their inspection systems. In a constantly evolving industrial environment, such adjustments are crucial to the success of production lines.