Long-lasting waterproofing starts with manufacturing

Does full automation mean that the role of employees is smaller?

Michał Pola: Quite the opposite. Modern technology supports employees, but it does not replace them. Experienced operators are responsible for the correct setting of parameters, observing the process and properly interpreting the data provided by the system.

Employees know which elements are crucial for the properties of the finished product and what requires special attention during production.

Automation increases precision and repeatability, while human knowledge makes it possible to properly use the capabilities of the technological lines.

What does quality control look like during the production of bituminous membranes?

Michał Pola: In our factory, we focus on the highest and repeatable quality of bituminous membranes, which is why control does not take place only after production has been completed. It is carried out at every stage of the process. Measurements are performed both directly on the production lines and in our in-house laboratory — fully and modernly equipped. The best proof of the high competence of this department is the fact that we also offer our laboratory services to other manufacturing plants.

Qualified employees regularly analyze the parameters of raw materials and finished products. This work system allows us to continuously adjust the process parameters that have a direct impact on the quality of the membrane. We do not wait to evaluate the product until it has already been manufactured. We monitor the process in real time and react immediately whenever necessary.

Which parameters are controlled directly on the line?

Michał Pola: One of the key elements is the control of product thickness. This is carried out continuously, which allows us to maintain material uniformity along the entire length of the produced roll.

We also control parameters related to mass dosing, temperature, line operating speed and the correct application of individual layers. Measurement systems enable rapid detection of deviations, and the operator can respond accordingly. As a result, the finished product is repeatable and compliant with the adopted technological requirements.

How does Izobud verify that products comply with the declared parameters?

Michał Pola: Every product must meet specific requirements and correspond to the parameters declared in the documentation. That is why product samples are subjected to detailed laboratory testing. Among other things, we check the characteristics and properties that are important from the point of view of the membrane’s later application.

The results are recorded and analyzed, which ensures production traceability and makes it possible to confirm that the product complies with its declared properties.

The combination of measurements performed on the lines with laboratory tests gives us a fuller picture of product quality and allows us to effectively supervise its repeatability.

An important stage of production is the preparation of the bituminous compound. What does this process look like?

Michał Pola: A modern, automated mixing plant is responsible for preparing the appropriate mixture. The process is carried out according to strictly defined recipes, and the dosing of individual components is performed with high precision. The system controls key parameters, including the quantity of raw materials, temperature and mixing time.

This is extremely important because the quality and homogeneity of the compound directly affect the properties of the finished bituminous membrane.

Automation of the mixing plant ensures high repeatability of subsequent batches. At the same time, employees supervise the entire process, monitor system readings and verify whether the prepared compound meets technological requirements.

How do you manage the raw material stocks needed to maintain production continuity?

Michał Pola: We use telemetry solutions that enable continuous monitoring of the levels of the most important raw materials. The system constantly monitors their levels and provides the information needed to plan subsequent deliveries.

This allows us to organize supply more effectively, reduce the risk of downtime and maintain continuous operation of the plant. Deliveries can be planned in advance, in line with current consumption and the production schedule.

Telemetry also improves the flow of information between production, the warehouse and the department responsible for procurement. As a result, decisions are based on current data, rather than only on periodic inventory checks.

Who is responsible for selecting the raw materials used in production?

Michał Pola: The selection of raw materials is handled by our qualified and experienced team. We work with proven suppliers, and before making a purchasing decision, we verify whether the raw materials offered meet our strict quality and technological requirements. We analyze their parameters, repeatability and compliance with the production specification.

However, this process does not end with the selection of the supplier. Raw materials are also inspected after delivery to the plant. This gives us confidence that only materials meeting the standards in force at the Izobud factory enter production.

Care for quality therefore begins even before the production line is started — already at the stage of selecting, purchasing and receiving raw materials.

What is the most important element of Izobud’s production philosophy?

Michał Pola: The most important thing for us is maintaining high and repeatable quality. We achieve this by combining modern technology, carefully selected raw materials, control at every stage and the competence of our employees.

We do not treat quality control as a single activity performed at the end of the line. It is an integral part of the entire process — from receiving and storing raw materials, through preparing the mixture, to production, laboratory testing and evaluation of the finished product.

It is precisely this comprehensive approach that allows us to deliver products compliant with the declared parameters and the requirements placed on modern waterproofing materials.