Kosme ProShape preform heating module

ProShape is a module for preferential heating of preforms which enables oval and asymmetrical PET containers to be produced on a KSB stretch blow-moulder from Kosme.

The preform is first heated up evenly in the oven and then passed by a transfer starwheel to the ProShape module. There water-cooled aluminium plates reduce the preform temperature selectively at specified points. This means the preform receives an individualised temperature profile, matched to the blow-moulding process and the subsequent bottle shape involved. Following equalisation time, the preform is passed to the blow-moulding station where it is blow-moulded into a bottle.

ProShape is also able to align preforms with precision, if the closure of the bottle so requires. For this purpose, a camera system photographs the neck finish of each preform while it is in the transfer starwheel. Stepper motors use these camera data to align the preform accurately while it is being transferred first to the ProShape module, and then to the mould.

According to the manufacturer, ProShape can reach speeds of up to 2000 containers/h. It permits only minimised tolerances, thus giving each preform a clear-cut heat profile with neatly delineated temperature zones.

The module provides an option for using lightweighting to produce oval and asymmetrical containers because it enables thin-walled zones and thick-walled sections to be located close together, making for high stability coupled with low weight.

If required, ProShape can simply be switched off, enabling users to alternate between standard production mode and the ProShape process.