Contiform 3 stretch blow moulding machine

The Contiform 3 is the latest generation of Krones’ stretch blow-moulding machine series. The blow-moulding module has been entirely revamped. The linear oven of the Contiform S/H series has been design-enhanced and optimised in regard to its energy consumption.

The blow-moulding station enables plastic containers to be produced at a speed of up to 2250 containers/h and cavity. A flexible electromagnetic stretching system is used which enables any required machine speed to be linked to a perfectly matched stretching speed.

The integrated Monotec drive concept, featuring servomotors, operates synchronously at all times, thus ensuring accurate transfers. Elimination of transfer belts means there are no longer any mechanical efficiency losses and there is less wear and tear.

Fewer cavities for the same total output ensure shorter changeover times. With the option for integrating a MouldXpress system, mould replacement time is additionally reduced to less than one minute per blow-moulding station. If PET preforms with a different neck finish are to be run, the optional quick-change handling parts in the oven of the Contiform 3 ensure reduced machine standstill times for a changeover routine.

A series of functions contribute towards significant savings in compressed air consumption. Electromagnetic stretching of the preforms using a linear drive instead of a pneumatic system means that compressed air is no longer required here. A dead space volume significantly downsized yet again reduces the compressed air consumption to an absolute minimum. With the Intermediate Pressure system, compressed air recycling inside the machine is dramatically increased. The compressed air recycling system inside the machine, the Air Wizard Plus, automatically adjusts itself to the optimum proportion of recycling.

The machine’s total air consumption has been reduced by a third.

The machine has been developed in sizes ranging from 8 to 36 blow-moulding stations, thus enabling outputs to be achieved of up to 81,000 containers/h.