Shredder and screening machines demonstrated on the VDMA “demo days” on the open-air exhibition grounds

Frohnleiten/Oelde. Komptech, the Austro-German specialists in the treatment of solid waste and wood biomass, showcases its machine innovations and enhancements to existing models at the IFAT 2008 International Trade Fair for Water, Sewage, Refuse and Recycling. The world’s largest fair for environment and disposal is taking place from May 4th-9th 2008 at the exhibition centre in Munich. More than 2200 exhibitors from 36 countries are expected.

Komptech will be showing mobile and stationary machines on stand 403/502 in Hall C2, amongst them the Topturn X67 compost turning machine, the Terminator XF shredder for all types of waste (model with direct drive) and the single-shaft Rasor 5400 post-shredder.

Running at the same time as IFAT are the VDMA “Biomass treatment“ demo days in the area outside Hall C2. The new universal Chippo 500 hacker is at the centre of Komptech demonstrations. Furthermore, and in keeping with the biomass theme, the specialist machine for the treatment of forest wood residue, the Crambo Forest, the star screen machines Multistar L3 and Multistar M2 with integrated wind sifter, and the Mustang E drum screen machine are being shown in use.

Komptech was able to substantially increase revenues for 2007: Growth to €85m means an increase of above 20% over the previous year. Together with excellent profitability, 2007 has been the most successful year in the history of the company. The company employs a total of more than 480 people at nine locations in six countries.

The company was founded in 1978 by Lieven’s father Julien Vandendriesche, and initially acted as a fresh food trucking company. In 1986 the company entered the composting business, and invested heavily in transportation and recycling equipment in the 90s. Vandendriesche bought its first Komptech machine, a Crambo, in 2003. Today there are three - a Crambo 6000 and Multistar L3 and XXL star screens.

Biomass as a growth business

“At this point we're focusing more and more on biomass processing instead of composting,” says Lieven Vandendriesche. “Volumes are increasing.” His customers are intermunicipal contractors, earthmovers, and nurseries and landscapers. He, his wife Nele and ten employees serve customers in Belgium and France.

Quality is in demand

Customers’ high quality expectations are not a problem, due in no small part to the Komptech machines. “The throughput is excellent” says Vandendriesche in praise of the green machines’ performance. “They’re also very reliable, the warranty conditions are very good and Komptech’s distribution partner Pon Equipment does a great job,” he says, referring to the good relationship he enjoys with “his” Pon Equipment staffer Michael Degelin.

Pure passion

Day by day, Vandendriesche demonstrates his passion for his business - his working day starts at five in the morning and goes until six at night, including on Saturday and Sunday, when he makes any repairs that are necessary. He also has a big heart for the environment, and his plant has a wind turbine that makes electricity.