The production of concrete elements is optimised year-round

In light of rising energy prices and the continuous focus on optimising production processes, Rudolf Griesmann Betonfertigteilwerk took on the challenge of reducing energy consumption in their production facilities. The company, which has a long history dating back to 1964 with the production of precast concrete elements and is known for its wide range of custom-made reinforced concrete garages, explored innovative solutions to maintain economic efficiency and save on energy consumption.

Challenge with rising energy prices

Managing rising energy costs without compromising on production quality or operational efficiency is crucial for Rudolf Griesmann Betonfertigteilwerk, which focuses their efforts on delivering the best garage solutions to their customers. The challenge with increasing energy expenses is further exacerbated by the requirement to maintain precise temperature conditions during the curing of the company's concrete elements, which is an energy-intensive and temperature-sensitive process. This has necessitated new measures.

Year-round thermal solution

The breakthrough came with the implementation of thermal concrete duvets from Combitherm, which are now used to cover the concrete elements, thereby accelerating the curing process and retaining the heat in the elements.

“We were seeking for possibilities to reduce our heating expenses in the production hall. Eventually, we became aware of the thermal concrete duvets of Combitherm and after successful first tests, we have ordered a larger number of thermal concrete duvets in several sizes, allowing us to cover our daily production completely. It was of particular importance to us that the covers can be used all year round – hence we have no drying out in summer at very high temperatures and we save energy for heating in winter. Here, we clearly see the advantages in the curing process in contrast to a PE foil; the heat for the hardening process is better retained,” explains Frank Hirschberg, Production Manager at the Saxony factory of Rudolf Griesmann Betonfertigteilwerk.

Customised solutions meet expectations

After successful pilot tests, in which Rudolf Griesmann Betonfertigteilwerk tested Combitherm's concrete duvets in both the stiffer PP foil and the flexible PUR foil, the company scaled the use of concrete duvets to fully meet their daily production needs. The insulating concrete duvets were manufactured by Combitherm to the desired dimensions and shapes, fitting the concrete plant's specific production facilities.

“I would like to use this opportunity to express my thanks for the excellent cooperation and straightforward communication. We are pleased about the very good result and all expectations in respect of the surface quality of the concrete and the saving of energy are fully met”, concludes Frank Hirschberg.

Thanks to the concrete duvets from Combitherm, the energy used for heating during the curing process is better preserved, which has not only led to energy savings but also improved the quality of the company's precast garages made of reinforced concrete.

Learn more about the advantages of concrete duvets

Photo at the top: ​ The concrete duvets are used year-round - in summer they ensure a low evaporation rate of moisture and in winter, energy is saved on heating the production hall.

Photo at the bottom: ​During production, the concrete elements are covered with thermal concrete duvets from Combitherm.