FrieslandCampina optimizes crystal sugar storage with 2x 80m³ Polem silos

How FrieslandCampina optimized crystal sugar storage with two 80 m³ food grade silos in collaboration with Polem and J-Tec Material Handling

FrieslandCampina is globally renowned for its high-quality dairy products. At the facility in Lummen, production grew and with it the need for additional storage capacity for crystal sugar, an essential ingredient in various products.

To realize this expansion efficiently and hygienically, FrieslandCampina collaborated with silo specialist Polem and system integrator J-Tec Material Handling. This led to the successful installation of two custom-made, food grade silos.

Challenges and analysis

Due to the growth in production capacity, crystal sugar storage also had to be expanded.

The main challenges were:

Realizing additional storage volume without disrupting existing processes
Meeting all strict food grade requirements
Integration of the new silos into the existing material handling system
Maintaining flexibility for future production changes

A thorough analysis showed that a new silo solution was the best approach to enable the required capacity increase in a hygienic and efficient manner.

Solution and implementation

In consultation with J-Tec Material Handling, Polem developed two silos with the following characteristics:

Diameter: 3.5 meters
Capacity: 80 m³ per silo
Food grade design, with special skirt for controlled discharge of crystal sugar

The implementation proceeded in phases, so that production in Lummen could continue undisturbed:

Site preparation and construction of the required foundation
Transport and placement of the silos by Polem
Integration into the existing system, realized by J-Tec

Through close consultation with FrieslandCampina's technical team, perfect connection to the existing infrastructure and production requirements was ensured.

Results

The delivery of the new silos provided FrieslandCampina with immediate measurable benefits:

Increased storage capacity: sufficient inventory to handle peak production
Improved logistical efficiency: less frequent refilling, lower transport costs
Completely hygienic: food safe and easy to clean
Ready for future expansions or process adjustments

Lessons learned

This project provided valuable insights:

Early cooperation and coordination between all parties ensures smooth project execution
With capacity expansion, it's important to also consider future growth scenarios
Clear communication with the operational team prevents surprises during commissioning

What went well: tight project planning and good cooperation between Polem, J-Tec, and FrieslandCampina.

Conclusion

With this expansion of crystal sugar storage capacity, FrieslandCampina in Lummen has further optimized its production process.

The successful collaboration between Polem and J-Tec Material Handling resulted in a future-proof and hygienic storage solution.

An inspiring example of how technology and teamwork add concrete value to production.

FAQ

Why did FrieslandCampina choose this capacity expansion? The growth in production required additional storage capacity. With the new silos, FrieslandCampina could better align inventory with production needs.
How is food safety ensured in the silos? The silos are fully food grade designed. Smooth interior walls and special materials ensure optimal hygiene and easy cleaning.
How long did the installation of the new silos take? The complete implementation took several months. Thanks to a phased approach, production remained operational throughout the project.
To what extent are the silos prepared for future adjustments? The silos are set up modularly and flexibly. This allows them to be easily adapted or expanded if production capacity grows again in the future.
What role did J-Tec play in this project? J-Tec was responsible for integrating the silos into the existing material handling system. Thanks to their expertise, the connection proceeded seamlessly.