AUTOCOVER: Advancing automation and digital traceability in Hermi cable tray cover production
Celje, 25 September 2026 – Hermi is launching AUTOCOVER, a new development project designed to modernise the production of Hermi cable tray covers and take a significant step towards more automated, digitally integrated and sustainable manufacturing. The project is being carried out under the MAT4EU Advanced Materials Innovation Open Call – Strand 2 and will run from September 2026 to August 2027.
AUTOCOVER focuses on upgrading Hermi’s existing production process for cable tray covers. The project will introduce automated material feeding, straightening, punching and bending, supported by smart sensors that will monitor key production parameters and tool conditions in real time.
Another key element of the project is the introduction of full digital material traceability throughout the production process. This will make it possible to track relevant data for each individual product, including information on the material used, production time and other process parameters. The data collected will improve quality control while also providing valuable information for certification purposes and the preparation of sustainability-related product documentation.
The main objective of AUTOCOVER is to increase production efficiency while reducing environmental impact. The current manufacturing process for cable tray covers is more demanding in terms of time, material use and energy consumption. By introducing a higher level of automation, Hermi aims to achieve a significantly faster, more stable and more consistent production process.
The project also supports the use of high-quality, durable materials. Hermi cable tray covers are manufactured from galvanised steel sheet, stainless steel and Magnelis®, all of which offer a high level of recyclability. Lower material waste and reduced energy consumption will contribute directly to more efficient use of resources and a lower product carbon footprint.
The AUTOCOVER project is led by Hermi’s development team, with two specialised Slovenian partners contributing expertise in selected technical areas.
AUTOCOVER goes beyond the modernisation of a single production line. The knowledge gained and the solutions developed in automation, sensor-based monitoring and digital traceability will have the potential to be applied to other Hermi production lines and products in the future.
The project therefore represents an important step in Hermi’s continued digital transformation, supporting more efficient use of materials and energy while strengthening the company’s ability to ensure consistently high and fully traceable product quality.
This project is co-funded by the European Union's Single Market Programme under grant agreement No. 101236716.
