Advances in PET Bottle & Cap Molding at Drinktec Show

Drinktec 2022 in Munich, Germany, Sept. 12-16 will host several developments in molding PET bottles and plastic caps. Some exhibits, such as from Nissei ASB and SACMI, are emphasizing returnable/refillable PET bottles, which are not a significant factor in North America (Mexico and other parts of Latin America are a different story, however). However, SACMI’s new labeling developments for returnable bottles may be of wider interest in PET recycling. Developed by SACMI Beverage for its range of labeling machines is a system for applying glue dots only to the label and not the container. This is said to minimize glue use and facilitate separation of the label from the container during recycling. SACMI is also promoting the use of washable glues that are soluble in alkaline wash water at low temperatures. Utilization of the glue-dot solution requires adding a Speed Coat kit to the labeler. In the case of wraparound labels, this system can apply the glue only to the parts in contact between the two label edges. At the recycling stage, a cutting accessory from SACMI easily separates the label and bottle.

Other SACMI news at Drinktec includes enhancement of the rPET processing capabilities of the IPS preform injection system. Up to now, the IPS system could process up to 50% rPET in flake form, which has now been increased to 70-75% through optimized management of the flake and pellet mixture without the need to use two separate feed hoppers.

SACMI also is introducing new Industry 4.0 digitalization options for its cap and preform machinery. Smart Pack is a new digital package that integrates advanced sensor technology and onboard machine checks into SACMI compression molding lines for caps. It’s meant to ensure process stability through “real-time reaction” to process changes, as well as provide preventive maintenance through hydraulic system monitoring. Other claimed benefits are longer mold life through prevention of condensation, improved cooling maintenance, prompt recognition of incorrect resin loading, and up to 60% shorter plug-insertion times through improved digital control.

In addition, “HERE” is a manufacturing execution system (MES) for cap molders that includes advanced monitoring, maintenance planning, order scheduling and tracking functions. Third is Smart Care, a cloud-based IoT platform intended to maximize machine performance, monitor key product indicators (KPIs) and downtime causes, and run machine health checks using artificial intelligence (AI) analytics to provide predictive maintenance.

Enhancements to SACMI’s CCM cap compression molding system include a new CM-Flow extruder (available for retrofit) that’s said to save energy and reduce risk of black specks by up to 50%.

Also exhibiting at Drinktec, KHS is introducing its Loop Lite 0.5-liter PET bottle for highly carbonated beverages made of 100% rPET. Without providing details, KHS says it weighs up to 25% less than standard market CSD bottles and contains a thin interior coating of vapor-deposited “glass” that is said to have no effect on recyclability.