Contiform The newest Contiform stretch blow molder from Krones introduces a range of improvements over earlier models. It offers a more intuitive, user-friendly experience, with a large touch-screen interface and improved visualization software, as well as assistant systems that can guide operators through the settings and make suggestions to them.
What’s new? The fourth generation of Krones’ Contiform line, which debuted in September at Drinktec.
Benefits Improved performance. The Contiform’s Contiloop AI automatic process control system uses artificial intelligence-based software and newly developed hardware to detect even slight material distribution variations and adjust process parameters in real time. Krones’ R&D team cut energy consumption by 11 percent compared to the previous Contiform generation by shortening the distance between heaters and redesigning them with parabolic reflectors. The machine’s new air recycling system, Air Wizard Triple, recycles compressed air in a three-stage process that cuts compressed air consumption in the blowing process by up to 20 percent compared to the previous generation of the machine. Its new skip-and-run technology lets a blowing station that is not locked eject a defective preform without requiring an emergency stop — bypassing the need for operator intervention and reducing the scrap rate.
Krones Inc., Franklin, Wis., 414-409-4000, www.kronesusa.com
| Vital statistics | |
Container volumes | 100 milliliters to 8 liters |
Possible container shapes | Cylindrical, oval, square and rectangular |
Number of blowing stations | 4 to 36 |
Throughput | 4,000 to 100,000 containers per hour |
David Tillett | Associate Editor
Associate Editor David Tillett writes and edits for Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing, Plastics Recycling and The Journal of Blow Molding. He covers new products, industry news, patents and consumer and business equipment. He has more than 20 years of experience in daily newspaper, online and magazine journalism.
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