The learning concept
The Model Factory provides a real life learning environment with an entire production process set up on around 200 square metres. The gearwheel-shaft combinations required for different types of drives are produced there. All the energy-intensive process stages typical of a production process are included, e.g. machining, assembly, heat treatment and handling robots, and the set up has its own compressed air and steam networks. LEP training course participants analyse the individual production stages for possible energy wastage. They then develop an optimised production process in which the production of each gearwheel consumes markedly less energy. This optimised result is then applied in the Learning Shop. A sophisticated system for recording energy consumption provides an appropriate dataset for each training phase. In this way, savings for each process stage can be correctly measured and understood.

“In industry, there are many possibilities for using energy in a more efficient way and thus lowering energy costs. Given the current world market economic situation in particular, but also given the need for working towards a sustainable future, it is more important than ever to sensitise companies in this respect. After all, we all benefit from this. With the LEP we now, at last, have an instrument for presenting efficient solution options. We back this initiative 100 percent – we feel that is our obligation”, ends Thomas Horz.