Merco Machines

High-quality steel drum manufacturing

As worldwide logistics and production demands increase, the use of standard drum container sizes or models is not always possible. Specific solutions meeting the exact needs of customers are now required. These demands may relate to shape, size, or complete the criteria of transporting hazardous goods. Merco Machines N.V. was founded in the late seventies as a design office specifically for this purpose.

Steel is regarded as one of the most reliable and durable materials for producing industrial-grade packaging containers. The steel drums are used for packaging liquids, semi-solids, and powders. You need a continuously adjustable servo-driven mechanical solution to create various kinds of rolling hoops in a metal drum body. Since this is a steel plate deformation, high forces and accuracy are required for this process.

‘Controlled machine automation using custom-fit HMI and SCADA interfaces guarantees functional reliability, short changeovers, efficient and safe operation, and reduces breakdowns, downtime, and maintenance costs‘, says Donaat Wambacq (director engineering). In addition, only high-quality components from selected brands and suppliers are integrated into our products to meet the most demanding quality standards.

High efficiency, force capabilities, and minimal maintenance

So, why did Merco Machines choose to use Ewellix?

According to Donaat Wambacq, Merco's first-generation machines were non-servo-driven and had a long change-over-time between several types of hoops used. Improved second-generation systems had a servo-driven ball screw to form the rolling hoops without any change-over-time needed. However, the product's lifetime did not satisfy their requirements and expectations. In addition, they required a maintenance-free solution as a replacement or servicing was not accessible due to the screw being at the core of the machine mechanics.

‘Mechanical performances and features of planetary roller screws made us choose Ewellix due to their high efficiency, force capabilities, and minimal maintenance. We also apply automatic greasing, so our customers have no maintenance issues anymore,’ states Donaat Wambacq.

Ewellix's planetary roller screws drive without roller recirculation, ensuring ultimate drive performance. In addition, they are incredibly robust, offer maximum speed and acceleration capabilities, and are exceptionally durable and reliable. Ewellix can offer high-quality planetary roller screws in a wide range of diameters and leads thanks to state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies to match any machine design and size.

Donaat Wambacq says, ‘Together with optimising all other mechanical elements and drives; we can increase productivity and performance and lower energy consumption.’

About Merco Machines N.V

Merco Machines N.V designs and manufactures machines and entire production lines for the production and reconditioning of up to nine hundred steel drums per hour. From turnkey projects to tailor-made solutions. Due to in-house manufacturing and high-quality components, Merco Machines guarantees high-quality standards and after-sales service to their customers worldwide.