#Japan #Himeji #Nikko Corporation #ZERO I #Amita Circular

Introduction

In a significant move towards sustainability, Nikko Corporation (headquartered in Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture) has delivered automation equipment to the newly established Smart Factory, ZERO I, run by Amita Circular Co., Ltd. in Himeji. This factory specializes in producing circular resources from waste materials, marking a pivotal step in Japan's shift towards resource circularity.

On July 9, 2026, the opening ceremony for ZERO I took place, showcasing its commitment to developing a fully automated manufacturing process aimed at achieving complete autonomy by 2027. Amita Circular is dedicated to addressing current challenges in resource procurement, driven by geopolitical risks, currency depreciation, rising resource costs, and efforts for decarbonization. As part of this initiative, ZERO I is envisioned as a core facility within Amita’s innovative Circular 3.0 business model, which aspires to create social value beyond simple material circulation.

Background and Significance of the Installation

Japan's manufacturing environment has seen transformative changes, making reliable resource procurement increasingly challenging. The establishment of ZERO I is a response to these societal issues, enhancing resource circulation and utilization through an automated control system aimed at seamless operations throughout the supply chain.

To facilitate this transition, the advanced equipment delivered by Nikko plays a crucial role in homogenizing and sizing the cement raw materials derived from waste, ensuring a constant supply for the manufacturing process. This automated setup will support the ambitious goal of achieving complete control over production by 2027.

Equipment Functionality and Innovations

The smart factory ZERO I is designed to handle a variety of waste materials simultaneously—up to 18 types concurrently—allowing for the production of diverse circular resources tailored to client needs. At its core, the equipment focuses on processing raw materials through fundamental operations of homogenization and size control:

1. Advanced Mixing Technology: Utilizing a dual-axis mixing system nurtured through expertise in asphalt and concrete plants, materials are blended to eliminate quality discrepancies. The system dynamically adjusts the addition of moisture agents according to the raw material weight and monitors blending conditions via camera technology, transitioning towards automation through AI-enhanced diagnostics.

2. Particle Size Adjustment: The mixed materials are continuously fed into sieves that automatically sort them according to required size specifications (under 40mm) for downstream processes.

3. Looped Re-crushing of Oversized Material: Any materials exceeding the specified size are sent to be crushed again, ensuring all output meets industry standards before final processing.

4. Automated Product Handling: Finally, only the optimally sized and conditioned materials are transported directly to the product yard, ensuring efficiency and consistency.

Future Outlook

As the equipment begins full-scale operations, Nikko Corporation remains committed to maintaining the safety and reliability of ZERO I. By leveraging its industry-leading technology in asphalt and concrete plant manufacturing, Nikko is contributing significantly to realizing the Circular 3.0 model.

In its ongoing efforts for automation, Nikko is also establishing an Engineering Sales Department, focused on optimizing manufacturing processes through strategic collaborations. As the company aims to support diverse industries in achieving resource circularity and carbon neutrality, its innovative engineering solutions will be crucial in moving towards a sustainable future.

Company Overview

Founded in 1919, Nikko Corporation emerged from the prominent Suzukikou store and has evolved into a crucial plant machinery manufacturer, supporting Japan’s infrastructure. Holding an 80% market share in asphalt manufacturing, Nikko provides resources for large-scale projects, including airports and local roads, contributing to the betterment of community development.

• - Company Name: Nikko Corporation
• - President: Tomomi Nakayama
• - Headquarters: 1013-1 Eijima, Okubo-cho, Akashi, Hyogo, Japan
• - Established: August 13, 1919
• - Business Scope: Asphalt and Concrete Production, Environmental Solutions, Mobile Operations
• - Website: Nikko Corporation
• - Official Note: Nikko Note