trilatec’s lightweight squAir elements gaining weight in importance

I was first introduced to squAIR-timber over at the ULD Care conference in Canada back in SEP19. At the time, it seemed very new and innovative, yet Cargolux had already begun using it already in 2017 following its branding in 2016 (trilatec exists since 1989, squAIR-timber since 2012), followed by another 25 airlines authorizing its use in 2018. Lufthansa Cargo got on board in 2020, authorizing its use within its BUP500. A look at the website shows 21 logos of companies deploying squAIR-timber to date. Given the many benefits the product offers, it is surprising that the list is still missing a number of other large players vocally intent on becoming more sustainable. Perhaps that was the reason for trilatec’s recent press release – to encourage more movement. The benefits, as enjoyed by DHL in Frankfurt and Paris, Kuehne+Nagel, Lufthansa Cargo, Cargolux, and Emirates SkyCargo, when using squAIR-timber instead of conventional wooden beams during pallet assembly are lower fuel costs and CO2 emissions, since the cardboard fiber composite material weight 80% less. It also saves on handling time and is easier to manage: “Only one person and no forklift truck is required for assembling,” the release states, explaining: “the innovative lightweight construction elements from trilatec are made of 100% recyclable paper and cold-glued joints, manufactured according to the carbon principle,” and that the certified for air freight, fully recyclable product can take the same load as real wood: “When loaded, one meter of the weatherproof material can carry up to 5 tons with a dead weight of just 1.2 kilograms per meter. When using wood, the dead weight is 3 to 4 kilograms per meter.”

trilatec GmbH’s MDs Stefan Trinkaus (left) & Andreas Langemann. Image: trilatec

Johannes Bruijs, Sr. Vice-President Global Logistics at Cargolux, explained: “We use the lightweight squAIR-timber elements as a substructure for all pharmaceutical shipments and they are fully integrated into the processes. They have no disadvantages compared to wood, but their significantly lower weight brings many advantages and helps to save a considerable amount of CO2.”

Andreas Langemann, Managing Director of trilatec GmbH, added: “squAIR-timber offers added value to leading companies in the air cargo industry. Our product has proven to be a reliable alternative in their global networks. According to calculations, airlines such as Cargolux can save around 1,200 tons of fuel per year by using our solutions – the equivalent of three fully loaded jumbo jets.”

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