Sustainability at kolb
For us, sustainability is far more than a short-term trend or a response to changing market expectations. It is an integral part of how we think, develop, and operate as a company.
We have always been committed to combining high-performance cleaning solutions with responsible use of resources. From the development of our cleaning systems and processes to the selection of materials, energy efficiency, and long-term product reliability, environmental considerations play an important role in our day-to-day decisions.
We continuously work to improve our technologies, reduce environmental impact, and create solutions that help our customers achieve their own sustainability goals. The following examples provide an insight into some of the measures and initiatives that reflect our ongoing commitment.
Cleaning systems
kolb cleaning systems are designed to reduce resource consumption (energy and water). This not only conserves resources but also saves costs.
The standard ClosedLoop technology ensures that the process fluids are treated in such a way that the cleaning detergent can be used for up to 5,000 cycles* and the rinse water for up to 15 cycles* without needing to be replaced.
Our 3-tank systems in the AQUBE® X Series feature WaterSave technology. They operate with two separate rinse tanks and reduce rinse water consumption by approximately 45% compared to systems with only one rinse tank.
In addition, we offer water management systems that, using the CrossLoop process, enable rinse water to be reused up to 100 times* without needing to be replaced.
With EnerSave technology, we specifically incorporate features into our systems that reduce energy consumption without compromising cleaning and drying performance.
* Depending on the degree of soiling and system configuration
Components
When selecting components for our systems, we place great emphasis on quality, durability, and state-of-the-art technology. We rely on high-quality, compatible components from renowned manufacturers, some of whom we have been working with as partners for many years.
This pays off: maintenance effort and costs decrease, malfunctions become less frequent, and maintenance intervals are extended. The typical service life of kolb cleaning systems is 15 to 20 years. This conserves resources because systems need to be replaced less often and improves cost-effectiveness over the entire life cycle.
Detergents
Our state-of-the-art low-temperature detergents clean efficiently even at temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 45 °C. This ensures a more stable cleaning process, reduces cleaning detergent consumption by up to 80%, and saves energy compared to cleaning at 70 °C or higher.*
Low-temperature cleaning is also gentle on materials and helps to extend the maintenance intervals and service life of your cleaning system.
Many other technologies, some of which we developed ourselves, ensure lower consumption, a longer service life, and easy handling.
It’s not just our cleaning detergents that are designed for resource efficiency – our gray canisters are, too. The body of our gray 25-liter canisters is made of more than 90% post-consumer HDPE recycled material and can be recycled once completely emptied.
* kolb AW-VT Report 19420 with AQUBE® XH941
Production
The roofs of our production facilities in Willich are equipped with solar panels.
These allow us to generate up to 90% of our annual electricity consumption.
We have also converted our vehicle fleet to electric vehicles wherever possible and practical.
The corresponding charging stations are located in front of our headquarters and are also available for our guests to use.
For our employees, there is also a charging station for their e-bikes (as well as a “Job-Bike” program).