More Than a Business Relationship

View into Injection Molding Hall 3.

The IntElect 130-450 manufactures radar-capable plastic covers for the VW Group.

The IntElect 130-450 produces radar-capable plastic covers for the VW Group.

The machines are integrated into the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) via an OPC UA interface.

Continuity, trust and technological excellence define the partnership between SLM Kunststofftechnik and Sumitomo (SHI) Demag. Since its foundation in 1998, the automotive supplier from Oebisfelde has relied on injection molding machines from Schwaig. Today, the company operates a fleet of 75 machines – clear evidence of sustained growth and confidence in a collaboration that has lasted almost three decades.

From start-up to established automotive supplier

When SLM was founded 27 years ago, it began with just a few machines and a clear vision: to deliver high-quality plastic parts for the automotive industry. Today, the company employs around 300 people and produces more than 40 million components each year. Its product portfolio includes exterior parts such as bumper covers as well as highly complex two-component water deflectors, requiring maximum precision and process reliability. The main customers are the Volkswagen Group and other leading international OEMs.

Technological excellence and energy efficiency

A key driver of this success has been the close technological partnership with Sumitomo (SHI) Demag. In addition to outstanding machine availability and process stability, the fully electric IntElect series plays a particularly important role. SLM now operates 13 IntElect machines. They enable energy-efficient and highly precise production, reduce downtime, and contribute to the company’s sustainability goals. “With the IntElect machines, we have significantly increased our energy efficiency while further optimizing the quality of our parts,” explains Managing Director Gunnar Kasprzyk.

Embracing digitalization

Beyond machine technology, SLM is also investing in digital solutions. The integration of myConnect and myAssist provides closer service connectivity, predictive maintenance, and faster troubleshooting. In addition, all machines are fully connected to the company’s MES, enabling seamless process monitoring and data analysis. These steps lay the foundation for a future-proof, fully networked production environment in line with Industry 4.0 standards.

A growing partnership

For SLM, the collaboration with Sumitomo (SHI) Demag is far more than a supplier relationship. It is built on mutual trust, technological expertise, and a shared commitment to quality. “Our partnership with Sumitomo (SHI) Demag is a cornerstone of our competitiveness and growth. We truly value the reliability, service, and innovative strength they provide,” emphasizes Kasprzyk.