News

Recent News

ER-WE-PA GmbH Achieves ISO 14001 Certification
Continuing with company-wide sustainability efforts, Davis-Standard’s subsidiary in Germany, ER-WE-PA GmbH, recently attained ISO 14001 certification. This certification illustrates a
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“The Quest for Medical Product Perfection” Interview with John Christiano and Medical Plastics News
Medical product manufacturing is a tough job; persistent timelines, exacting quality standards, equipment performance, tighter margins, and staffing shortages are
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Stonington Celebrates Earth & Arbor Day All Year Long
Stongington, CT government website posted the below news brief on behalf of the Beautification Committee of Stongington. Earth Day was
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Interview with CEO and Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing Magazine; “Giovanni Spitale took an unorthodox path to plastics”
As the head of Davis-Standard, Giovanni Spitale has an unusual background. Unlike many executives who work their way up in
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Past News

Elevate Control Functionality with DS-XEL
Davis-Standard is pleased to announce the release of its DS-XEL control system. This system, which replaces mature discrete controls, implements high-performance HMI features to better facilitate the data and process information requirements of today’s manufacturing environment. Attention is given to active functions for a better operator experience and improved connectivity. The DS-XEL will be the new standard control for Davis-Standard’s Super Blue® and HPE extruder lines and is compatible with the DS Activ-Check cloud-based platform. It is also available as an upgrade to existing extruder controls. “This controller merges the latest PLC and HMI offerings to enable an operator-friendly package with greater attention to detail,” said John Clemens, Davis-Standard’s Director of Extrusion Controls. “It also incorporates key features only available with larger system controllers for troubleshooting and process improvement.” The DS-XEL provides on-screen graphic trending of essential extruder parameters, visually tracking temperature, barrel pressure, motor speed and motor load. Speed deviation from the setpoint is displayed along with extruder maintenance run timer and heater zone alarms, indicating deviation, process temperature, power failure, heater load and sensor break. The minimum, maximum, and average motor load is captured during each production run. Recipe creation and storage allows for repeatability of multiple products on the same line. Other advantages include process alarm logging, real-time and historical data trending, auto and self-tuning of heat zones for quick die changes, and an on-screen display of individual zone heaters. In addition, the DS-XEL addresses connectivity requirements with a simple connection to ERP/MRP or upper-level supervisory control using a standard OPC-UA interface. For more information about the DS-XEL or to get a quote, contact us here.
“MEDD”ical Extruder Aids Impossible at Vesta Thermoplastics
For Vesta Thermoplastics, a Lubrizol Life Science Health (LLS Health) Company, extruding the impossible is a daily endeavor. However, Davis-Standard’s extruders have risen to the challenge. Vesta, a leading supplier of tight-tolerance extrusions for the medical industry, recently installed a Davis-Standard MEDD extruder to augment the company’s existing Davis-Standard HPE extruders. The MEDD has helped Vesta increase productivity, alleviate potential backlogs and address shorter lead times for the company’s diverse portfolio of thin-wall tubing, multi-lumen, and coextrusion products. This includes tubing and devices that support single-use and long-term implantable applications such as neurostimulation, feeding and drainage tubes, catheters, and vascular loops. “We’ve had a lot of success with our HPE extruders, and the MEDD has been a welcomed addition. We bought this machine during 2022 MD&M West since the show is only 30 minutes from our facility, making delivery very convenient,” explained Steven Mayol, Senior Process Engineer at Vesta Thermoplastics. “Installation went smoothly and the MEDD is already proving to be a good investment. Being able to exchange barrel sizes when necessary and having the capacity to run a variety of high-temperature polymers is essential to our business model. We pride ourselves in delivering extrusion tubing that no one can challenge, including extrusions that involve new polymers.” The MEDD’s interchangeable barrel assembly, ease of maintenance, and operator accessibility have been notable for Vesta. This design is specific to clean room environments, providing a replaceable feed section liner and direct drive technology for bottom line efficiency and materials flexibility. Stainless steel surfaces, quick change capabilities, and a broad polymer range enable the tubing consistency and reliable performance Vesta needs to serve current and emerging medical markets. Vesta’s innovation encompasses lead tubing, balloon tubing, custom extrusion, PEEK extrusion, braided tubing, striping and multi-layer coextrusion, multi-lumen, heat shrink tubing, rapid and bump extrusion. Mayol also appreciates Davis-Standard’s personalized approach to service. “Davis-Standard has been exemplary with timely, customer-centric service. Their troubleshooting support has also been helpful whenever we’ve needed it,” he said. “This includes designing the right feedscrews for our polymer range to address targeted outputs with excellent melt quality and product consistency.” For more information about Vesta’s capabilities as part of LLS Health, visit here. For more information about Davis-Standard’s MEDD and HPE extruders, visit our page here. Have questions or if you would like to inquire about machinery solutions to fit your operational needs?
Davis-Standard Introduces Integrator PRO+™ Control Upgrade
Davis-Standard is pleased to announce the release of its Integrator PRO+ control upgrade for cast film, extrusion coating, and aqueous coating processes. This system is the successor to Davis-Standard’s existing Integrator PRO™ human-machine interface (HMI) and supports the DS Activ-Check digital transformation platform, which offers a robust suite of analytical tools, cloud and local data storage options, process and equipment technology algorithms. Control upgrades are an integral part of Davis-Standard’s aftermarket services to ensure customers have access to the latest technology. The Integrator PRO+™ delivers all the valued features of the previous version, such as recipe recall, intuitive interface and control functions, custom reporting and line drive functionality, while further facilitating user-friendliness, mobility, and process efficiency outcomes. Improvements include central control of all production parameters, process data analysis to assist with overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), and compatibility with obsolete controls installed on legacy Davis-Standard machinery. In addition, processors can take advantage of extra data storage, in-depth troubleshooting and analysis, and situational awareness services for seamless portability of live information and controls to tablets and smartphones. Processors upgrading to the Integrator PRO+™ will appreciate better overall line control, greater connectivity, and ease of use. Operators benefit from better graphics, streamlined displays of the most relevant process information, and a visual safety overview screen illustrating the status of each embedded safety device to aid in diagnostics and troubleshooting. In addition, the Integrator PRO+doubles data storage compared to the Integrator PRO, with process data collection and trending screens also doubled. “The Integrator PRO+is a logical next step in helping our converting customers take advantage of Industry 4.0 solutions that contribute to bottom-line factors such as improved sustainability, product quality, machinery efficiency and project team mobility,” said Sumeet Kumar, Davis-Standard’s Director of Strategic Marketing for Converting Systems. “We look forward to seeing customers gain value from this control option, especially when combined with our DS Activ-Check solution.” To find out more about the Integrator PRO+, or to inquire about an upgrade, contact us here or call 860-407-3969. You can also learn more here.
Davis-Standard Launches Global Sustainability Initiative
Davis-Standard is pleased to announce the formation of a global sustainability initiative that prioritizes resource conservation and supports circular economy initiatives, social responsibility, and business collaboration. As a company, Davis-Standard is accelerating efforts to cultivate best practices and machinery innovation that aligns with United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals. “We have a collective responsibility to provide technology that enables forward-thinking solutions to complex challenges such as food security, reliable energy sources, and strategic infrastructure,” said Giovanni Spitale, Davis-Standard CEO. “We have prioritized sustainability efforts along with safety, quality, and productivity to address the needs of our customers while playing an active role ourselves. As a result, we have already made significant advances in our machinery development regarding reduced waste, energy efficiency, and increased recyclability. We look forward to doing more as we work toward a sustainable future.“ Davis-Standard has committed to the following objectives by the year 2025:
  • Direct R&D funding, targeting five percent of sales revenue, toward sustainable equipment development. Efforts will focus on further expanding customer use of recycled content, reducing material waste, and efficient use of energy and process structures to support the circular economy.
  • Increase procurement of carbon pollution-free electricity to 100 percent of Davis-Standard’s total energy usage.
  • Host “Davis-Standard Community Days” to support every community in which Davis-Standard is located. Each facility will identify and complete two environmentally-conscious activities per year.
  • Achieve ISO 14001 certification at all of our global facilities.
For more information about Davis-Standard’s sustainability initiative, visit our site here.  
Raje Dwaraka Joins Davis-Standard as Chief Financial Officer
Davis-Standard is pleased to announce that Raje Dwaraka has been appointed Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In her new role, Dwaraka will lead Davis-Standard’s finance team and partner with business unit leaders. She will also be instrumental in designing and executing the company strategy. Raje is a talented financial leader, and we are thrilled to have her as part of our executive leadership team,” said Giovanni Spitale, Davis-Standard’s Chief Executive Officer. “She brings a proven track record of leading global teams, delivering sound financial strategy, and close partnership with business leadership – all of which will be key to continuing the growth trajectory that we are on”. Dwaraka comes to Davis-Standard from NielsenIQ, where she was Chief Accounting Officer (CAO), leading a global team of 900 employees in 80 countries. Prior to that role, she was CFO of the $2 billion Food Services business unit within Pactiv, where she oversaw finance and strategic planning and played a key role in listing the company on NASDAQ (Ticker: PTVE). She also held the positions of Head of SEC Reporting and Controller during her time in the company. Raje obtained her CPA license from the Illinois Board of Public Accountants and also holds a Chartered Accounting (CA) degree from India. Have questions or would like to make an inquiry? Please contact us here.  
Popular Aseptic Packaging Installs Davis-Standard dsX™ 400 Line
[caption id="attachment_7175" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Pictured from left to right: Syed Ayaz Ali, general manager, Popular Aseptic Packaging; Michael Krämer, managing director, ER-WE-PA GmbH; Muhammad Amin, project manager, Popular Aseptic Packaging; Daniel Schiller, project manager, ER-WE-PA GmbH; Uwe Schulze, commissioning engineer ER-WE-PA GmbH.[/caption] Popular Aseptic Packaging, one of Pakistan’s leading packaging innovators, recently increased capacity with Davis-Standard’s German subsidiary ER-WE-PA GmbH’s installation of a dsX 400 aseptic packaging line. The all-in-one triplex extrusion coating and laminating line will support the company’s production growth for a range of food and beverage applications. Popular Aseptic Packaging is known for their single window aseptic packaging for liquids, dairy products and paper cups. This is the company’s first machinery purchase from a Davis-Standard company. “We have been in the aseptic packaging business since 2012 and needed to boost production to address local demand and that of our international customers,” said Junaid Malik, managing director of Popular Aseptic Packaging. “It was important for us to have a complete aseptic packaging solution that would provide an edge in terms of increasing quantity without compromising quality and customer satisfaction. Davis-Standard’s name continually came up as having the best extrusion coating technology in the industry. After extensive research, customer reviews and detailed discussions, we chose the ER-WE-PA dsX 400 aseptic line. Davis-Standard’s ER-WE-PA team in Germany did their best to complete the project on time and solve any issues related to equipment or the process, whether remote or in person.” Prior to this installation, Popular Aseptic Packaging had a production capacity of approximately 135 million packs of liquid packaging board per month. Based on increased line speed achieved during acceptance, Popular projects new line will increase that output by up to three times while supporting Popular Aseptic Packaging’s strict quality standards and competitive market rates. According to Malik, the line’s auto profile control die, online gauge scanner, and trim recycle system have already yielded advantages and cost savings. The die and scanner enable greater product customization, tighter tolerances and consistency for different layers, and the trim recycle system minimizes waste losses while reducing the company’s carbon footprint. Currently, the line is running LDPE, ethylene alpha-olephin, and acid copolymers with plans to further extend the range of resins used. “The product quality on the ER-WE-PA line has been exceptional along with beneficial features like higher speeds, tighter tolerances, equipment durability and calculated material consumption,” added Malik. “We had some obstacles to overcome with pandemic restrictions over the past two years, but Davis-Standard’s subsidiary supported us and navigated these challenges to complete the project. We especially appreciate the unconditional assistance and visit to our plant by Michael Krämer, managing director of ER-WE-PA GmbH and his associate, project manager Daniel Schiller. We look forward to ER-WE-PA’s continued support with regard to equipment operation, maintenance, spare parts and global supply chain issues.” To learn more or inquire about our extrusion coating capabilities, contact us here.
Sustainable Machinery Performance and Smart Factory Solutions Brought To You By Davis-Standard at K2022
Davis-Standard will exhibit machinery and process solutions that highlight a commitment to value, innovation, and sustainability during the upcoming K2022 Show in Düsseldorf, Germany, Hall 16 Booth A43. Technology from the Davis-Standard family of companies, including Davis-Standard, Maillefer, Brampton Engineering, Deacro and Thermoforming Systems LLC (TSL), will be shown with an emphasis on customer profitability and performance. Visitors will experience continued developments in extrusion and converting technology focused on a circular economy, energy efficiency, reduced power consumption and minimized waste, as well as a live demonstration of smart factory connectivity. “As the first K show since 2019, we look forward to engaging with our global customer base and sharing new developments,” said Giovanni Spitale, Davis-Standard President and CEO. “Our exhibit will present a range of technology from Davis-Standard and our heritage brands that reflects marketplace demand and our strong commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices. We also have an intense focus on the lifecycle value of our machinery as reflected in our aftermarket services.” Davis-Standard has been active since the last K show, and is eager to introduce enhancements and developments to its expansive machinery portfolio. Following is a summary of technology to be shown and/or promoted: Aftermarket Advantages – Davis-Standard and all portfolio brands offer end-to-end service, parts, and line upgrades to help customers maximize productivity. The company continues to push the envelope with smart factory solutions and connected machinery developments designed to integrate with a customer’s plant to provide real-time monitoring and diagnostic capability. For example, Davis-Standard’s new DS Activ-Check platform can be installed on a continuously expanding number of company products (including both Davis-Standard and Maillefer machinery), delivering a powerful suite of analytical tools, cloud and local data storage options, process and equipment technology algorithms. A live demonstration of how customers can benefit from this technology will be given during the show. SHO Extruder (3.5-inch, 90mm) – Equipped to save space while offering outputs of at least 20 percent versus existing groove feed models, the SHO is engineered with a new gearbox, an optimized feed section, and high-performance, energy-efficient DSB® barrier screw. This is especially beneficial for high-viscosity HDPE applications such as pipe extrusion, where lower melt temperatures, reduced power consumption and improved energy efficiency are paramount. MXD Extruders – Maillefer’s new MXD series high-performance extruders will be on display in 45mm and 80mm sizes. Besides the two extruders will be three ECH extrusion heads dedicated to three application areas; micro-drip irrigation, blown fiber microduct, and heating and plumbing applications. Downstream equipment will also be shown, featuring the most recent dual coiler and reeler technology with robotized handling capabilities. Model 4000AG CrossheadIn elastomer, Davis-Standard will promote the Model 4000AG crosshead, which allows for faster start-up times and little scrap. The Model 4000AG incorporates an automatic, servo-driven concentricity and wall thickness adjustment system. This new, proprietary and patent pending, system automatically adjusts core tube/tip assembly to minimize eccentricity, maximize concentricity, and reduce downtime during product changeovers. This automated design has a tapered mandrel and highly engineered flow paths to ensure consistent flow through all speed ranges. Extrusion Die 510A – Engineered for packaging, cup stock, board and paper, foil, and film applications, the 510A offers simplified operation, improved safety and reduced waste. A short die lip facilitates minimal edge bead, excellent cross profile, and needed flexibility for processing various polymers at changing web widths. The motorized deckling adjustment promotes safe operation, and an optional way-encoder reduces waste during product changeover. The corrosion-resistant chrome nitride surface enables a sharper die exit edge to minimize polymer build-up and increase running time. Extrusion Laminator – A laboratory-style linear three-roll laminator with a 900mm chill roll will be shown. This design is engineered for a high cooling capacity at high-speed operation, and with a hydraulic linear nip pressure system to support a range of flexible packaging substrates. Advantages include a water-cooled hydraulic actuated take-off roll for gap and contact operation; process rolls with a quick release water connection and simplified roll change function; and a motorized Teflon tape system and belt adjustment for safe, uninterrupted operation. XP Express® AGT – As the latest addition to Davis-Standard’s roll stand portfolio, this model provides greater automation and process control for sheet extrusion applications. With a space-saving, multi-roll design, processors can take advantage of advanced cooling and polishing, die-to-nip management, web flatness, heat transfer, consistent sheet clarity, and improved performance for low melt-strength resins.* Feedscrew Display ­– A single screw extrusion plastication model will show the transformation of raw plastic material into melt as it is pushed to the front of the screw through a rotational action. A single-stage metering screw and single-stage barrier screw will also be displayed. These designs illustrate the mixing quality and efficiency of Davis-Standard’s screw technology in conveying, compressing, and blending melted pellets and color additives into a homogeneous melt stream. Schedule an appointment with us prior to the show so we ensure ample time for your needs! Click here to get your spot today.   *Disclaimer: This Roll Stand XP Express® – Active Gravity Touch (AGT) is not offered and sold to customers in and from the Federal Republic of Germany at any time in the past and in the future. -  Das Walzengerüst XP Express® – Active Gravity Touch (AGT) wird zu keinem Zeitpunkt, weder in der Vergangenheit noch in der Zukunft, einem Kunden in und aus der Bundesrepublik Deutschland angeboten.
Christian Eidt Joins Davis-Standard as Chief Information Officer
Davis-Standard is pleased to announce that Christian Eidt has been appointed Chief Information Officer. In his new role, Eidt will be an integral part of Davis-Standard’s senior management team, charged with transforming IT capabilities as the company moves toward an increasingly digital and data-enabled industrial environment. He will be responsible for IT strategy, corporate systems, data and analytics, and cyber security. “Chris brings a high level of strategic IT leadership and digital transformation expertise to our team,” said Giovanni Spitale, Davis-Standard’s Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to him directing this new area of focus as we take advantage of systems and technology platforms as powerful business enablers.” Eidt comes to Davis-Standard from FactSet Research Systems, a leader in financial data and software, where he was senior vice president of strategic planning and business transformation with a focus on product configuration, pricing, quoting, customer sales contract management, and new reporting capabilities. He also has 25 years of experience in the media and advertising industry, serving in multiple finance and technology roles within CBS Corporation and as CIO at OUTFRONT Media. Eidt is a graduate of the Boston College Carroll School of Management.
Blown film die coating considerations and options – Packaging South Asia Magazine
Read in the magazine here. For more information on Davis-Standard's blown film machinery, visit here.  
“Former Davis-Standard head reflects on decades-long career” – Interview with Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing and Jim Murphy
James Murphy is making the transition from president and CEO to vice chairman of the board of directors. To view the article via PMM website, visit here.  
Mike Brown Appointed Vice President for Davis-Standard’s Canadian Operations
Davis-Standard is pleased to announce that Mike Brown has been appointed Vice President of Operations – GTA for the company’s Canadian businesses. In his new role, Brown will be responsible for executing the business operating plan, strategy and performance initiatives for Davis-Standard’s Toronto-based subsidiaries. “Mike joins Davis-Standard with over 25 years of progressive experience in engineering, product management, and global operating roles with equipment and processing companies,” said Dan Guthrie, Davis-Standard’s Chief Operating Officer. “We look forward to him leading our Brampton Engineering, Deacro, and Gamma companies to reach our strategic growth goals synchronized with the Surpass global operating principles and our Davis-Standard vision statement.” Brown comes to Davis-Standard from Gillette/Procter & Gamble, where he was operations manager for their injection and extrusion operations. Having also worked at Edwards Vacuum, Avox Systems, Milacron and Quality Metalcraft, he has extensive experience in transforming businesses in terms of profitability, safety, aftermarket services, lean manufacturing, and footprint utilization. Brown holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and a Master of Science in manufacturing engineering from Worchester Polytechnic Institute, and a Master in Business Administration from Babson College.   For more information about Brampton Engineering, visit: https://be-ca.com/ For more information about Deacro, visit: https://www.deacro.com/ For more information about Gamma Machinery, visit: http://www.gamma-machinery.com/ If you have questions, inquiries, or need to speak with Mike Brown, contact us here!
Go Digital, Work Better | Plastics Engineering Magazine
SPE Publication, May Issue Article written by Nancy D. Lamontagne (SPE)