Kushtrim Daci, who can look back on 20 years of ultrasonic expertise and has been working in technical sales of ultrasonic systems since 2015, is taking on central functions in business development in addition to his sales tasks. We spoke to him about his new role and current developments in the industry.
Question: Kushtrim, what exactly does the new role involve?
Answer: In my new role, I act as a communications satellite, forming an important bridge between innovation, sales, marketing and our subsidiaries in Germany, the USA and Asia. My main focus is on moderating a targeted and regular exchange on new applications in the areas of cleaning, welding and cutting. We want to identify new innovative applications as well as derivative applications and work closely with the innovation department to bring them to market maturity. This includes systematically analyzing and expanding existing and new markets, regions and industries. It is also very important to be present at trade exhibitions and to give presentations in the relevant forums in order to present our latest developments and technologies to a wide audience.
Question: In which applications do you see the greatest potential for ultrasonic technology?
Answer : We see promising applications for ultrasonic technology in textile finishing and high-frequency cleaning.
Question: Can you please explain in more detail how ultrasound is used in the textile industry?
Answer : The finishing of yarns and fabrics plays a decisive role in the desired properties of textiles. However, conventional methods for these processes require a considerable amount of chemicals, water and energy. Textile finishing uses up to one kilogram of chemical substances per kilogram of textiles. By using our ultrasonic solution, SonoPower Textile, our customers' plants can achieve impressive savings: Up to 30% less water and textile auxiliaries (chemicals), 50% less energy and therefore 50% less CO2 emissions. These savings are hugely significant given current energy prices, environmental regulations and the volume of textiles produced.
Question: Where is high-frequency cleaning used?
Answer : Radio frequency cleaning is at home in the electronics and semiconductor industries. These industries play an essential role because they supply the downstream user industries in the supply chain. With the relocation of production capacities from Asia to Europe in the wafer industry, the cleaning of sensitive substrates using mega-sound and multi-frequencies is in high demand. Existing production facilities are being expanded and new facilities are being built. The order books of system manufacturers specializing in high-frequency cleaning are full. Our ongoing development of standardized megasonic oscillation systems is an important component in the development of competitive cleaning systems in this sector.
Question: Are there any other applications in which ultrasonic technology can score points?
Answer: Absolutely, we are currently involved in several fascinating innovation projects. One example is the production of carbon concrete, a lightweight, easily moldable and corrosion-free replacement for reinforced concrete. The aim is to achieve savings of up to 80% in concrete and therefore considerable reductions in emissions. We have also worked intensively on the cleaning of pharmaceutical glass containers such as ampoules, vials and cartridges and have adapted our systems accordingly.
The versatility of ultrasonic technology gives us the opportunity to review existing conventional mechanical processes and to integrate ultrasound as an energy and resource-saving technology into as many production processes as possible. We are determined to work with our customers and plant manufacturers to develop solutions for current and future challenges and to break new ground, even outside the established standard applications.
Kushtrim, thank you very much for talking to us. All the best and much success!