Intercement, Loma Negra, Argentina

Challenge

The L’Amalí kiln process required a continuous, reliable feed of alternative fuel (RDF) to replace traditional fossil fuels, ensuring high quality and stable particle size. The plant faced inefficiencies tied to manual bale-opening, potential delays in fuel feed, and the need to manage both square and round bales in their logistics and supply chain.

Solution

Cross Wrap supplied the Bale Opener, delivered in 2016, to automate bale opening of wrapped RDF from sister companies (e.g., Arcillex and Recycomb) for the plant’s fuel infeed system. The unit handles both rectangular and round bales, operates with minimal manual intervention, and integrates into the shredding system to process wrap films into the fuel stream.

Key takeaway

• The automation of bale opening significantly simplified the RDF fuel feeding process, freeing time for system maintenance and inventory management.
• The ability to handle both square and round bales with the same machine increased operational flexibility and allowed efficient logistics flows.
• Reliable equipment and moderate maintenance costs made this a cost-effective upgrade, supporting Loma Negra’s sustainable fuel strategy and circular economy goals.