La Raffinerie Tirlemontoise

A sweet story of innovation: Polytek’s process upgrade for La Raffinerie Tirlemontoise

Overview

La Raffinerie Tirlemontoise, a Belgian sugar company, came to Polytek with a clear mission. By processing raw cane sugar additionaly tosugar beets, they’d be able to create a real competitive advantage. The steps of the process were already determined, but time for implementation was running out. So, what were the steps to take?

Client
La Raffinerie Tirlemontoise
Date
2024
Industry

Challenge

Our Process Flexibility Upgrade tackled not one, but two main challenges.

Firstly, a tight six-month deadline loomed, demanding swift and precise execution. Failure to complete the upgrade in time would affect the continuity of the project — a risk La Raffinerie Tirlemontoise could not take.

Secondly, retrofitting an historical plant with new infrastructure posed significant technical challenges. Building something from scratch is easier than reimagining, modifying, and improving what already exists. But just because it’s not easy, doesn’t mean it can’t be done. And so, we joined forces with La Raffinerie Tirlemontoise and got to work.

 

 

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Solution

‘Design before you build’ is the new ‘think before you act.’

For an entire production line to be adapted to a different raw material in six months, we put a clear, comprehensive strategy in place, led by a dedicated project manager. Using 3D scanning and BIM technology, we planned structural adjustments, anticipated potential problems, and engineered new elements—such as piping—before construction. That’s what it means to get things right from the start.

Once everything was ready to be built, our on-site construction team ensured smooth execution. And, as a bonus, our VR training allowed staff and operators to get familiar with the new installation before it went live.

Conclusion

Sometimes six months is all it takes

Because at the end of the ride, we managed to create an updated, more flexible production process that allows La Raffinerie Tirlemontoise to supplement sugar beet with additional raw materials giving them greater agility in the market and reinforcing their role as industry pioneers. Efficiency, flexibility, and innovation, that’s just how we like it.

Why Polytek

Why clients choose us

Together, we’re off to a great start.

We work closely with clients from the very beginning. That way, we know exactly what you need, you feel heard and supported, and we can use our collective skills to solve the puzzle. This is a team effort, and a strong start is half the battle.

Going digital is more sustainable.

By focusing on digital processes, we minimise waste, optimise resources, and reduce the ecological footprint of industrial projects. Also, we design for longevity. By making sure everything is well-made and well-maintained, we reduce the need for renovations or replacements.

We’re with you, the whole way through.

Industrial projects are complex and rely on many variables. Challenges and questions are bound to arise. Our project managers are here to guide you through it all, with expert advice, troubleshooting, and, if necessary, just a bit of tough love.

We’re the glue that holds it all together.

Not your machinery or hardware (although we help with that, too), but the different elements and stakeholders involved in your construction project. We always take a bird’s-eye view, so all moving parts are in sync.

Engineering is problem-solving. Predicting the future, in a way. We tackle your challenges head-on, getting things right from the start.