GREEN BAY, WI, June 26, 2025 – BW Converting is expanding its North American presence for the Baldwin Electrode Press Industrial Cleaning (EPIC) System, fully automated in-line cleaner engineered for both cathode and anode calendaring processes in battery production.
To support growing demand in the U.S. market, BW Converting hired a sales leader to focus on battery applications, also investing with a set plan for regional expansion. The move comes as many Asia-based battery firms and emerging startups are shifting operations to the U.S., beginning with pilot-scale production lines where cross-contamination control and formulation changes are critical.
“We’re seeing smaller firms relocate from Asia Pacific and new ventures launching pilot lines across North America, and that’s where EPIC shines,” said Dennis Behnisch, product line leader, surface, cleaning and spray, at BW Converting. “Our system is an ideal fit for pilot lines, where frequent formulation adjustments increase the need for fast, effective and repeatable cleaning. It helps operators fine-tune their process while safeguarding electrode quality.”
Built for the High-Temperature Demands of Cathode Production
The Baldwin EPIC System operates at up to 150°C (302°F), permitting calendar cleaning during production. Traditional methods require cooling for up to eight hours before manual solvent cleaning, causing downtime, increased energy consumption and safety risks.
Key benefits of the Baldwin EPIC System include:
- Enhanced Productivity: Eliminates cooling cycles and enables formulation changes, suited for R&D and pilot lines.
- Sustainability Gains: Reduces energy waste, solvent use and material scrap.
- Superior Safety: Automated operation keeps operators away from hot rollers and harmful chemicals.
- Flexible Integration: Retrofitted to existing calendaring lines or installed on new equipment.
Already in use at multiple production sites across Europe, the EPIC System is ready to meet growing demand in the U.S. as local manufacturing capacity for EV batteries grows.
“The battery sector in North America is expanding, and our EPIC technology is ready,” added Behnisch. “With our new sales leadership and proven results in Europe, we’re committed to helping U.S. manufacturers accelerate time to market with safer, smarter and more sustainable production tools.”
Source: BW Converting
About BW Converting
BW Converting Solutions, a division of the $3.6 billion Barry-Wehmiller Corporation, specializes in designing and manufacturing precision machinery for tissue, hygiene, print, packaging, mailing, and textiles. Formed as an alliance, it unites brands including Paper Converting Machine Company (PCMC), Winkler+Dünnebier (W+D), Baldwin Technology Co., Hudson-Sharp, STAX Technologies, and Northern Engraving and Machine. These brands offer advanced converting and packaging machinery tailored to industrial applications. With a global presence, BW Converting Solutions operates production facilities in WI, Italy, Serbia, Germany, and England. BW Converting Solutions employs over 1,580 team members worldwide.
About BARRY-WEHMILLER
Barry-Wehmiller is a leader in manufacturing, engineering, and automation solutions, serving industries such as packaging, paper converting, automation, and industrial equipment. Established in 1885, the company has been in business for over 135 years and has grown into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise. Through its divisions, including BW Packaging, BW Converting Solutions, and BW Design Group, Barry-Wehmiller provides machinery and services for food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, personal care, tissue and hygiene, and industrial goods sectors. With an emphasis on people-centric leadership, the company employs over 12,000 team members worldwide. Barry-Wehmiller generates approximately $3.6 billion in annual revenue and has expanded its global presence through acquisitions and organic growth. Headquartered in St. Louis, MO, the company continues to drive innovation while fostering a culture of leadership and sustainability in the industries it serves.