Hydroline’s roadmap for an energy-efficient factory & smart hydraulic cylinder manufacturing

In 2023, we began a transformative journey to reform our Vuorela factory's energy consumption. Our goal is to enhance energy efficiency and reduce our energy consumption in both our production for hydraulic cylinder manufacturing and our office space by at least 20% from our 2022 levels, encompassing electricity and heating. In this condensed article we share the main points from our roadmap, but you can read the full blog post from our website.

🔍 The In-Depth Analysis of Current Energy Solutions

It is no secret that like all manufacturing, hydraulic cylinder manufacturing too requires quite a lot of energy. However, there are so many small things one can do to ensure the most efficient energy consumption. That is why the first phase involved a thorough analysis of our current energy usage, sources, costs, contract structures, and energy distribution.

We mapped and documented our factory's manufacturing machinery's energy consumption and explored renewable energy solutions for heating, air conditioning, ventilation, cooling, and electricity use. We also focused on developing occupational and electrical safety in line with future legislation. This analysis laid the groundwork for our 2023-2025 investment roadmap towards a sustainable, energy-efficient facility.

🧠 Towards Energy Efficiency with Smart Solutions

In addition to improving our manufacturing practices with a fully automated manufacturing line for hydraulic cylinder tubes and rods, er have been increasing automation level at our Vuorela factory to fully control our energy operations. One of our first investments was renovating and centralizing our property automation system using Honeywell Centraline. We also began replacing manually operated equipment with automated ones and integrated a smart lighting system. These steps built the foundation for the next phases of our roadmap.

💡 Smart Lighting

Our second major investment is transitioning to LED lighting in our hydraulic cylinder production facilities and factory outdoor areas. LEDs are highly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, offering significant improvements over traditional lighting. Key benefits include:

• Adjustable Lighting: Enhances occupational safety by optimizing visibility and reducing visual discomfort.

• Smart Lighting Control: Based on DALI technology, allows dimming and movement-based control, improving energy efficiency.

• Environmental Friendliness: LEDs do not contain hazardous materials like mercury and have a smaller carbon footprint.

• Extended Lifespan: LEDs last tens of thousands of hours, reducing replacement frequency and maintenance costs.

• Durability: Resistant to vibration and impact, ensuring reliability in factory conditions.

Integrating LED lighting is expected to reduce our lighting electricity consumption by 60%, thus supporting our energy efficiency goals and our commitment to sustainable practices.

🌿 Embark on the Journey with Us

This brief article introduces the basics of our Roadmap for an Energy-Efficient Smart Factory, highlighting our steps towards transforming our Vuorela factory into a sustainable, energy-intelligent production facility for a modern, efficient unit for hydraulic cylinder manufacturing. From detailed energy usage analysis to strategic investments in property automation and smart lighting, we are setting the stage for a greener future.

Do you want to learn more about our journey and our practices in hydraulic cylinder manufacturing? Read the full blog post from our website: click here 🔗