In the automotive industry, sustainability has become an operational standard. For us, this translates into intelligent resource management: maximizing the use of raw materials without compromising our customers’ quality standards. Therefore, ILPEA is committed to the progressive integration of recycled polymers (HDP, TPV, and PP) into our production lines.
At ILPEA, we work with two types of recycled material, each with its own specific challenges and opportunities:
1. Post-industrial recycling (in-house)
By recovering the waste generated in our own extrusion and processing lines, we control traceability and purity from the source.
- Purity Control: By using our own scrap, we avoid the impurities or quality variations that can arise when purchasing external recycled material. Consequently, this approach ensures that the final tube maintains the same mechanical properties and flexibility as virgin material. Moreover, it guarantees the same high-level sealing capacity for all our products.
- Adjustment of extrusion processes: Using recycled materials requires greater precision. Our technical team constantly monitors key variables, such as machine temperatures, extrusion pressure, and production speed. This daily control allows us to achieve a perfect, uniform mixture, ensuring that the final tube always maintains the same structural strength and quality.
2. Post-consumer recycling
As part of our circularity strategy, we are integrating polymers from post-consumer products. Admittedly, the technical challenge here is significant. Specifically, it requires advanced cleaning and homogenization to ensure the material meets automotive safety standards. Consequently, this process gives a second life to plastics that would otherwise become waste. Furthermore, this allows us to extend our positive impact beyond our facility.”
Towards our goal of 80% recycled material
Sustainability is, in essence, a continuous improvement in resource management. ILPEA’s commitment is not limited to using a symbolic percentage of recovered material; we are actively investing to raise this index. Our goal is clear: to reach up to 80% recycled material in our products.
This approach provides us with tangible operational benefits:
- Efficient waste management: By converting production scrap into a useful resource, we drastically reduce the volume of industrial waste. We close the production loop within our own facilities.
- Supply chain optimization: By relying less on virgin raw materials, we reduce the environmental impact of our operations and improve our operational efficiency.
At ILPEA Galvarplast, our strategy is clear: to combine production excellence with the responsible use of materials.
