Timothy Fiumana, Marketing Manager at FIMIGroup since 2011, plays a vital role in steering the company’s global communication and brand strategy. Born in Como, Italy, the seasoned professional brings a strong background in marketing to promote FIMIGroup’s innovation-driven identity across international markets. His leadership has significantly contributed to expanding the company’s presence through sustainable solutions and digital transformation.

In the e-Magazine “Advanced Industrial Technologies in the ALuminium Industry (Part II)”, Timothy Fiumana discusses how FIMIGroup addresses the aluminium industry’s demand for eco-friendly surface treatments, digitalised plant performance and energy-efficient technologies.

AL Circle: The aluminium industry increasingly demands eco-friendly and efficient surface treatment solutions. How does FIMI’s multiroll alkaline and acid degreasing system address these needs, especially concerning the processing of ultrathin aluminium foils without compromising their mechanical properties?

Timothy Fiumana: Our treatment lines comply with the most stringent environmental regulations. Exhaust fumes and effluents are thoroughly filtered, resulting in negligible environmental impact. Our engineering team prioritises low power consumption by optimising the installed power on each machine. FIMI’s patented multiroll degreasing system, especially for ultra-thin materials, ensures the mechanical properties of the strip remain intact. The strip stays in constant contact with supporting rolls throughout the process, allowing the kinetic energy of spray nozzles to act effectively without damaging the material or causing wrinkles. Degreasing units are typically combined with tension levelling, especially with our PTL system, which is tailored for thin and delicate surfaces. Its advanced drive system uses interconnected differential gearboxes to manage strip elongation across multiple steps. This step-by-step control—based on speed differentials—ensures precision where the material is under the most stress. The PTL’s software driven model regulates the core levelling unit independently of the material characteristics. The first and last three rolls function as pretensioning bridles, controlled by torque and managed automatically. These features allow us to handle even the most sensitive materials with optimal flatness and surface integrity.

AL Circle: FIMI has collaborated with 40Factory to implement IoT solutions for enhanced plant performance. How has integrating modules like health monitoring and maintenance analytics transformed your approach to predictive maintenance and overall operational efficiency?

Timothy Fiumana: Through its automation division, FIMI has long developed Level 2 systems for interfacing with factory controls. More recently, we introduced the ‘Digit’ platform— our comprehensive remote-control solution for monitoring line operations and performance. The integration of IoT modules, such as health monitoring and maintenance analytics, has transformed our approach to predictive maintenance. Operators now have full visibility of performance metrics, energy usage, and potential issues, enabling proactive interventions and reducing unplanned downtime. This digital approach not only optimises efficiency but also supports long-term reliability and cost savings.

AL Circle: Environmental considerations are paramount in modern industrial operations. What specific design features and technologies have FIMI incorporated into its aluminium processing lines to minimise environmental impacts, such as energy consumption and pollutant emissions?

Timothy Fiumana: FIMI’s commitment to sustainability is evident in our processing and treatment lines. Exhaust and liquid discharges are subjected to advanced filtration, making environmental impact virtually zero. Additionally, our machines are designed with energy efficiency in mind—careful attention is given to minimizing installed power, thereby reducing overall consumption.

To explore the full interview and gain deeper insights into the global aluminium rolling technology and equipment market, click here.