Call for input: Rubber factory of the future

Dear Industry Colleague

London - ERJ January/February 2023 issue will include a feature on how new machine technologies are helping rubber product makers to address current challenges around energy-costs, skills shortages and other operational issues.

For this, we are asking processors and their suppliers of moulding, extrusion and other processing machinery to identify developments that are enhancing efficiency and minimising production costs at rubber material/product factories worldwide.

Companies are, therefore, invited to provide expert input by supplying replies of up to 400 words (in total) on some or all of the following points:

- Describe a particular technology which, you believe, is playing (or could play) a significant role in reducing the cost and/or raising the efficiency of rubber material/product production.

- What is its current commercial status of the technology today in the market? – eg, at R&D stage, early-stage adoption, already widely adopted, etc.

- In which ways is this technology making a significant difference to the rubber industry?

- What further advances are planned for this technology over the next 3-5 years?

- What are the prospects for (further) commercial adoption over the next 3-5 years?

- Any other points?

Please send your replies to the ERJ editor by 10 January 2023.