SupremeX, the largest Canadian-based provider of packaging and envelopes, faced rising costs and environmental concerns with their solvent-based washing systems. As a company committed to improving both efficiency and sustainability, SupremeX sought a better solution for its operations.
SupremeX Embraces Water-Wash Systems
“We had been grappling with the problems of our solvent wash plates for years, looking for the right solution,” says Dennis Prosper, Pre-Press Manager at SupremeX. “Some of the solvents we used bordered on being carcinogenic, so we needed a process that was safer for our people and for the environment. In talking with different companies, we realized Anderson & Vreeland’s expertise with the equipment and their knowledge of flexo was very important in helping us make the decision.”
The Cost and Inefficiency of Solvents
SupremeX was burdened by the escalating costs and inefficiencies of handling solvents. “It could take a month to accumulate enough used solvent to send out for recycling, and there was still a 5 to 1 ratio of old to new solvent,” explains Prosper. “New solvents are expensive, and it could take a month before recycled solvent was returned. It was just a costly and inefficient process that hindered our productivity.”
Making the Switch to Water-Wash Systems
Recognizing the need for change, SupremeX decided to transition to water-wash systems, aiming to eliminate solvents in all its facilities. However, this switch was not instantaneous. Anderson & Vreeland provided the new systems, which were shipped to Canada and installed, with each facility requiring a unique installation.
Efficient Installation and Customization
The customization and installation of the new systems were managed by AV Technical Sales Team members Richard Heaps and Martin Schofield. “We have installed so many Orbital and Whirl A Way units that they now go in quickly and easily, with little if any interruption to production,” says Schofield. “The challenge was decommissioning the solvent system, removing it, and installing our water processor and the polymer reclaim Whirl A Way system, all without interrupting a high-volume, high-output shop like the Toronto and Montreal SupremeX facilities.“
Prosper adds, “Richard and Martin actually came in on weekends to work with our team and minimize downtime. The water wash machines require some on-site assembly, and each installation was customized. Richard, Martin, and the Anderson & Vreeland Technical Team made sure each machine was properly configured so it would run as needed.”
Successful Implementation and Future Prospects
After successfully installing two Orbital plate processors, two Whirl A Way polymer reclaim systems, and the new AVXpose unit at the Toronto location, the team replicated the process at the Montreal facility. “This was one of the larger installations we have done, with lots of potential pitfalls and obstacles,” says Sean Sawa, Director of Sales for Anderson & Vreeland Canada. “But with Richard, Martin, and Jessica Harrell from our U.S.-based Technology Team, as well as a high level of support from SupremeX, the entire process was seamless, painless, and fast.“
A Greener, More Efficient Future
By switching to water-wash systems, SupremeX has not only enhanced their operational efficiency but also significantly improved their environmental footprint. This transition underscores their commitment to sustainability and positions them as a forward-thinking leader in the packaging and envelope industry.
