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Description
The primary goal of the project is to enhance the competitiveness and foster sustainable growth for Techceramic-M JSC by making strategic investments in environmentally friendly technologies aimed at resource efficiency. This objective will be realized through the installation of a cutting-edge isostatic press. This technology promises a dual impact: reducing production costs while unlocking the capacity to manufacture a new product—pipes with a length of 1,300 mm. Additionally, the new press will optimize the treatment process for pipes with lengths of 1,250 mm and 1,150 mm, eliminating the need for double and triple pressing. This expansion in capacity not only enables the production of innovative, greener products but also significantly reduces oil consumption and minimizes the use of raw materials.
The anticipated outcomes encompass the successful delivery, installation, and operation of a new isostatic press for the production of 1,300 mm pipes, the introduction of two new treatment processes for 1,150 mm and 1,250 mm pipes, and the creation of four environmentally focused job opportunities. This comprehensive approach underscores Techceramic-M''s commitment to technological advancement and ecological sustainability in its quest for heightened competitiveness and responsible growth.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address several key issues and challenges, which can be summarized as follows:
1. Inefficient Use of Resources
The current production processes were not resource-efficient, leading to high consumption of raw materials and energy (like oil).
Existing equipment required double or triple pressing, wasting resources and reducing productivity.
2. Outdated Equipment
The company was using old isostatic presses from the 1980s, which lacked the capacity to:
Produce new, larger pipes (1,300 mm in length).
Efficiently treat existing pipe sizes (1,150 mm and 1,250 mm).
3. Limited Product Portfolio
The company’s product offerings were not diversified.
There was a need to introduce a new product and two new treatment processes to stay competitive.
4. Environmental Concerns
The project targeted reduction in waste and greenhouse gas emissions by improving resource efficiency.
Emphasis on environmentally friendly technologies was aligned with broader goals for sustainable development in the EU.
In summary, the project aimed to modernize production, reduce resource consumption, increase efficiency, diversify products, and support sustainable growth - all while contributing to broader EU environmental and economic goals.
Activities:
Purchase and installation of a modern isostatic press:
The central activity of the project was acquiring and installing state-of-the-art equipment to replace outdated machinery.
Introduction of new production capabilities:
Enabled the manufacture of a new product – pipes with a length of 1,300 mm.
Improved treatment processes for existing pipe lengths of 1,150 mm and 1,250 mm by eliminating inefficient double and triple pressing.
Outputs:
Expanded production capacity:
The new press allows for the efficient production of longer and higher-quality pipes, significantly increasing overall output.
Improved resource efficiency:
Reduced consumption of raw materials and oil, making the production process greener and more sustainable.
Higher productivity and product quality:
The equipment enhanced product quality, productivity, and profitability of the company.
Introduction of one new product and two new processes:
One new product: 1,300 mm pipes.
Two new processes for treatment of 1,150 mm and 1,250 mm pipes.
Financial growth:
Expected annual increase of approximately EUR 300,000 in revenues.
Increase of about EUR 110,000 in operating profit per year.
Enhanced international competitiveness:
The project strengthened the company''s position in the global market, which is critical since over 98% of its products are exported.
In summary, the project led to technological modernization, product and process innovation, resource savings, and financial and market growth for Techceramic-M JSC.
The project achieved several important results with both outcomes and impact, benefiting multiple stakeholders:
1. For Techceramic-M JSC (the company itself):
Outcomes:
Modernization of production through the installation of a state-of-the-art isostatic press.
Introduction of one new product (1,300 mm pipes) and two new treatment processes (for 1,150 mm and 1,250 mm pipes).
Elimination of inefficient processes like double and triple pressing.
Impact:
Increased productivity and higher quality output.
Improved resource efficiency – lower consumption of raw materials and oil.
Reduced production costs and environmental footprint.
Increased revenues by approx. EUR 300,000/year and operating profit by EUR 110,000/year.
Improved competitiveness, especially in international markets where the company exports over 98% of its products.
2. For Employees / Workforce:
Outcomes:
Enhanced work environment through modern equipment and more efficient processes.
New job opportunities created.
Impact:
Creation of 4 new green jobs, supporting employment and promoting environmentally responsible work.
3. For the Environment:
Outcomes:
Adoption of cleaner production technology.
Reduction in material and energy waste.
Impact:
Lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced environmental impact from industrial processes.
Contribution to EU environmental and sustainability goals, especially under the Europe 2020 strategy.
4. For the Market / Customers:
Outcomes:
Introduction of new, higher-quality ceramic products.
More consistent and reliable product specifications due to uniform processing.
Impact:
Better product offerings for customers in major international markets.
Strengthened supplier reliability and innovation capacity in the technical ceramics sector.
In summary, the project delivered economic, environmental, and social benefits, with direct impact on Techceramic-M JSC, its employees, the environment, international customers, and the wider economy.
Summary of bilateral results
The partnership between Techceramic-M JSC (Bulgaria) and Norski Energi (Norway) has proven to be a valuable and strategic collaboration, delivering tangible bilateral results within the scope of the project. This cooperation not only enhanced the technical outcomes of the project but also contributed to strengthening cross-border relations between Bulgaria and Norway.Norski Energi played a crucial role by providing specialized know-how and technical guidance to Techceramic-M JSC. The partner’s contribution focused on:- Conducting a comprehensive energy and resource efficiency assessment.- Developing a technical document detailing energy efficiency measures specifically tailored to the resource-efficient technologies being introduced by the Bulgarian company.This facilitated evidence-based decision-making and provided a clear roadmap for sustainable improvements in Techceramic-M JSC’s operations.The partnership fostered international cooperation and mutual learning between Bulgaria and Norway, leading to:- Strengthened bilateral relations through practical collaboration.- Capacity building within Techceramic-M JSC through the introduction of advanced Norwegian practices.- Enhanced visibility and exchange of best practices in energy efficiency and sustainability between the two countries.In summary, the partnership between Techceramic-M JSC and Norski Energi not only supported the technical success of the project but also delivered meaningful bilateral benefits, promoting sustainable industrial development and fostering stronger ties between Bulgaria and Norway through shared innovation and environmental responsibility.