Resource-saving heating layer with non-stick effect - "RheNoHaft"

Duration: 01.03.2020 - 28.02.2022

As part of the BMBF funding measure KMU-innovativ: Resource efficiency and climate protection, Rhenotherm has started this new cooperation project with the University of Duisburg-Essen. The aim of the project is to develop a novel non-stick coating with integrated resistance heating in order to be able to offer an environmentally friendly, sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to conventional heated rollers and calenders. It should be possible to dispense with the use of additives (heating oil) so that the disposal of operating resources is completely eliminated. Furthermore, the heating wires are operated very energy-efficiently with low voltage. The heating wires are intended to transfer the thermal energy directly to the workpieces to be processed, so that the rollers are no longer completely heated. It should thus be possible to sustainably reduce energy consumption by up to 80%.

Heated rolls and calenders are used in numerous industrial sectors. In the paper industry, they are used for super calendering and drying to obtain particularly smooth and shiny paper. In the textile industry they are used to expel the residual moisture from the textile or to cover the seams of waterproof clothing. Furthermore, heating rollers and calenders can be used to process plastic films by heating the plastic and making it malleable. Plastic films are needed in almost all areas of everyday life these days.

In cars, for example, structured films are used in windshields to connect the outer and inner panes. In the manufacture of yoghurt pots, plastic packaging or blisters, plastic films are an important starting semi-finished product.