Fancy more information?
In his interview with the trade journal ‘fluid’, Carsten Krenz, Technical Managing Director of STAUFF Germany, provides further background information on sustainability at STAUFF.
Background: The success story of the green clamp
In the 1960s, STAUFF launched a green plastic clamp on the market that solved a pressing problem: conventional metal clamps were causing disruptive noise and vibrations in hydraulic systems. The introduction of this solution not only improved operational safety, but also significantly reduced maintenance costs. Working conditions were also improved. This success laid the foundation for the company's innovative strength, which continued in numerous other developments over the following decades.
The step into the future: Recycling clamps made from PP recyclate
In view of the increasing demands for sustainability and environmental awareness, STAUFF took the next major innovative step: the development of clamps made from PP recyclate. This is an innovative recycling approach in which high-quality plastic granulate made from recycled materials is used.
The challenge was to find and develop a material that fulfils the strict technical requirements - particularly in terms of durability and resilience. In close cooperation with renowned partners from research and industry, it was possible to optimise a recycled granulate that is both ecologically and technically convincing. This material can now be used specifically in clamp production as PP-ECO.
Sustainability as a corporate strategy
The recycling clip is a central component in STAUFF's comprehensive sustainability concept. The company has set itself ambitious targets, such as reducing absolute CO₂ emissions by up to 55 per cent by 2035. In addition to switching to recycled materials in production, extensive measures are being implemented to modernise the energy efficiency of buildings, such as the use of photovoltaic systems, combined heat and power plants and absorption refrigeration systems for heat recovery.
This holistic strategy shows that economic efficiency and ecological responsibility are not mutually exclusive, but can be harmoniously combined in a modern production approach.
Technological challenges and solutions
The development of the recycling clamp required in-depth technical expertise and a high degree of innovation. The process began with the identification of a suitable recycling material that would fulfil the high demands in terms of resilience and durability. From the initial idea through extensive testing and prototyping to series production, STAUFF works closely with its customers to develop customised solutions.
Special attention is also paid to noise damping: like the original green clamp, the recycling clamp also helps to minimise disruptive vibrations and thus makes an important contribution to preventive occupational safety and environmental protection.
Practical examples & areas of application
The recycling clamp is used in a wide range of industries:
Mechanical engineering: Optimisation of hydraulic systems in industrial applications.
Construction industry and agriculture: Use in construction, agricultural and forestry machinery to reduce noise and vibrations.
Municipal sector: Use in electrically powered municipal vehicles that operate quietly and efficiently in residential areas and city centres.
These examples illustrate how the innovative recycling clamp offers real added value not only ecologically, but also economically - by reducing the customer's ecological footprint and increasing operational safety at the same time.
Future prospects: recycling as a possible standard in hydraulics
The development of the recycling clamp marks a milestone that could potentially redefine the standard in the hydraulics industry. With the continuous expansion of the sustainability concept and the ongoing optimisation of recycled materials, further product lines could be realised on a sustainable basis in the future. The close cooperation with partners and the investment in modern, environmentally friendly production technologies show that STAUFF is ready to continue setting standards in the future and pave the way for a more sustainable industry.
Conclusion: Sustainability meets innovation
STAUFF impressively proves that economic success and ecological responsibility do not have to be mutually exclusive. From the revolutionary green clamp in the 1960s to the innovative recycling clamp, the company shows how continuous innovation and a commitment to sustainability can set new standards. This success story is not only a testament to STAUFF's technical expertise, but also an inspiring example of how companies can develop forward-looking solutions that benefit both the environment and the economy.
FAQ
What is PP recyclate?
What advantages do recycled clamps offer over conventional clamps?
Recycled clamps reduce the ecological footprint as they are made from recycled material. At the same time, they offer technical advantages such as improved noise damping and increased operational safety.
How does STAUFF integrate sustainability into its overall strategy?
In addition to switching to recycled materials, STAUFF is pursuing comprehensive sustainability measures - including the use of photovoltaics, combined heat and power plants and energy-efficient building modernisation - in order to operate in a CO₂-neutral manner and reduce dependence on external energy suppliers.
Which sectors in particular benefit from recycling clamps?
Industries such as mechanical engineering, construction and the municipal sector in particular benefit from the innovative solutions, as they often have requirements for noise reduction, safety and sustainability.
Can the recycling clamp be established as the standard in the hydraulics industry?
The developments and positive practical examples indicate that recycling clamps have the potential to be recognised as one of several standard solutions in the hydraulics industry in the long term, especially if sustainable production processes are further optimised.
Can customers obtain independent confirmation of Co ₂ reduction?
Yes, we at STAUFF can already provide independent confirmation for the product, listing the recycled material with 0% emissions in the raw material. In further steps, the emissions for the production of the clamps are also minimised through energy-related measures.
Newsletter registration
Register now and never miss a new blog post from STAUFF again
