EKJU digitalises and automates its production processes

SIA “EKJU” is investing in the digitalisation and automation of its processes under the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility plan, reform and investment direction 2.2 “Digital transformation and innovation of enterprises”, investment 2.2.1.4.i “Financial instruments to promote the digital transformation of businesses”. Project: “Digitalisation and automation of SIA EKJU production processes” (AIZD-DIGI-19).

Because the level of automation and digitalisation in EKJU’s existing production processes was assessed as moderately low, the company is investing in the automation and digitalisation of four low-automation processes, and in a new server to give company-wide data flows more capacity.

Digital transformation needs were identified across several areas, with these as priorities: replacing manual production equipment; keeping the minimum number of operators in every production process, controlling only the machine and material feed; automatic production accounting; maximum use of floor capacity; a move to digitalised logistics; a single integrated management system for all processes; and a smaller minimum order volume.

To reach the goal, EKJU is automating the CNC fence and panel nailing and stapling line, introducing a double-end tenoner with load and unload mechanisation, adding an angle-cutting CNC optimising saw with load and unload stacking mechanisation, and buying a server. Alongside the equipment, the company is reviewing its existing processes, technology and software use, optimising production, automating the processes with the highest share of manual work, and improving occupational safety.

As a result of the investment in digital transformation, the company will be more sustainable, more competitive and better able to export.

Total project cost: EUR 1,055,019.57 (incl. VAT). European Union financing: EUR 653,937.75 (excl. VAT). Expected capital rebate: EUR 305,170.95. Implementation period: 07.2023–08.2025.