For this purpose, the company appointed OTTO JUNKER GmbH with the task of delivering and commissioning a triple system plant consisting of three 12-ton induction furnaces and a common DC converter with two IGBT inverters and a melting capacity of 8 MW. The new furnace technology allows for flexible, energy-efficient production, reducing emissions to a minimum – a central step in the context of the sustainability strategy of the Italian company.
The concept is characterized by a flexible load distribution: one furnace can be run at full power while the other two are simultaneously used for holding and sintering processes. Control is via a centralized PLC architecture in connection with the JUMI operator desks. The architecture reduces investment and maintenance costs because not every furnace requires its own converter while at the same time requiring less space. More than anything, however, it optimizes energy use and increases equipment availability.
The induction furnaces are complemented by three charging machines made by General Kinematics, an automatic bridge crane made by Bonfanti, an automatic ladle handling system made by Progelta S.r.l. and a dust collection system made by Dizeta Impianti S.r.l. Another central element of the decarbonization strategy is the new photovoltaic system with a capacity of 2.6 MW, which in the future will directly support the energy-intensive melting with renewable energy. The intelligent system integration helps optimize own power consumption.
The plant has been in successful operation since February 2025. With the Fonderie De Riccardis project, OTTO JUNKER has once again contributed to the transformation of the foundry industry towards more energy efficiency and CO₂ neutrality. The systematic approach allows for the realization of tailor-made solutions for different framework conditions – a key success factor in industrial energy transition.
“The project shows how even ambitious targets such as decarbonization in the foundry industry can be realized step by step in cooperation with strong partners. We are happy to be able to accompany Fonderie De Riccardis S.r.l. on this route and wish them continued success,” says Andreas von Wachtendonk, OTTO JUNKER Senior Sales Manager.
From an early planning stage onwards, OTTO JUNKER GmbH, with its team of experts, will individually advise companies that are facing a technological transformation – be it with regard to energy efficiency, decarbonization or modernization.
