Heidelberg Materials North America has showcased its advanced packaging system at the Mitchell cement plant in Indiana, US.  

The event, attended by customers and industry partners, highlighted the operation of the Ventomatic GIROMAT EVO V12 Rotary Packer, a 12-spout automated rotating packaging system capable of filling a bag per second. 

The Mitchell plant, recognised as the second-largest cement plant in North America, is noted for its technological advancements and sustainable operations.  

The new bagging centre, featuring the rotary packer preassembled in Italy, can fill up to 3,600 bags per hour, significantly improving service speed.  

The automated kiosk system at the bagging centre is designed to enhance product loading, serving more trucks and bolstering safety measures. 

The plant's increased production capacity is pivotal in supporting Heidelberg Materials' customer base in the Midwest US and extending its market reach.  

The facility predominantly produces a branded Portland limestone cement, EcoCem, along with other products such as Brixment Masonry Types N, S, and M cements, and Stone-Hold. 

The bagging centre, which began a soft opening in late 2023, underwent its startup and commissioning in stages.  

Heidelberg Materials North America’s Midwest Region sales manager Carl Applebaum said: “Plant-wide, the new Mitchell facility uses the latest technology and environmental controls, and the bagging centre is no exception.  

“As the rotary packer was not yet operational at the time of the grand opening event in 2023, today’s open house offered the first chance for our customers and partners to see the packing system and observe the improvement in efficiency it offers.”  

In addition to the new packaging system, Heidelberg Materials North America has introduced new bag designs reflecting its rebranding from Lehigh Cement.  

The new logo, featuring two interconnected elements, represents the company’s technical strengths and commitment to growth.