Packo Inox, part of the Verder Group, has been known for its expertise in the surface treatment of stainless steel since 1974. With their specialized division Packo Surface Treatment, the company from Diksmuide, Belgium, offers a wide range of mechanical, chemical and electrochemical treatments that meet the diverse requirements of companies from many different sectors.
What began with electrolytic polishing of stainless steel parts for milking machines grew into demanding services. Originally these treatments were developed to solve corrosion problems caused by ammonia and chlorine in milking parlors. Today Packo Surface Treatment offers solutions for corrosion, hygiene, pitting and biofilm. This with a wide range of techniques such as micro-undulation, amorphization, desulfurization and anti-adhesion finishes.
Recently, Packo is seeing a shift from traditional non-stick coatings to electrochemical surface treatments. Instead of relying on coatings such as Teflon, which can flake off and pose a risk to food safety, companies are now opting for solutions such as micro-ondulation and electropolishing. These methods maintain the integrity of the stainless steel surface and eliminate concerns around harmful flaking, something that is gaining more attention in the wake of the PFOS scandal. For example, Packo has developed a micro-undulation procedure for the bakery industry that offers excellent non-stick properties, ideal for dough applications. It is also considering replacing coatings with metallic finishes in the treatment of baking trays, which significantly improves hygiene and durability.
Packo Surface Treatment serves a wide range of industries, from the food industry to the pharmaceutical and powder industries. Their expertise in electropolishing and other surface treatments makes them a valuable partner for companies striving to optimize the performance of their stainless steel systems. By improving aesthetic and functional properties of stainless steel, Packo offers solutions that go beyond mere technical requirements.
What sets Packo apart is its ability to provide surface treatments while offering technical advice. Piet Heinrichs, business unit manager of Packo Surface Treatment clarifies, "The motto of our business unit is simple. When a customer has a problem, we analyze which surface treatment is most suitable and provide advice that exactly matches the needs. So you can certainly speak of customized solutions." This customer-oriented approach ensures that companies in various industries can rely on Packo's solutions, regardless of the complexity of their challenges.
With the constant evolution of the markets in which Packo operates, the company continues to invest in new technologies and methods. They anticipate their customers' needs by always being ready with innovative solutions. In addition, Packo uses its own water treatment plant to comply with the strictest environmental regulations. In this way, they underscore their commitment to sustainability and stay one step ahead of legislation.
Since its acquisition by the Dutch multinational Verder Group in 2015, Packo Surface Treatment has continued to grow and remains focused on innovation and customer satisfaction. Their presence at international exhibitions offers customers the chance to get to know their products and services better and confirms Packo's role as a leading player in stainless steel surface treatment.