By Ron Shinn
Bekum has designed a new all-electric extrusion blow molding machine series from the ground up and claims a 30 percent lower investment, 20 percent reduction in energy use and 10 percent savings in material.
The new SmartLine series debuted at K 2025. It is designed for small and medium-sized processors in consumer packaging markets. Bekum also said it is a good choice for newcomers to extrusion blow molding.
The first two SmartLine models are the SBlow 5 S/D and SBlow 15 S/D. Each comes in a compact, single-station and double-station configuration.
The SBlow 5 S/D has 5.6 tons of clamping force and a 380mm opening stroke. Maximum mold width is 370mm and mold height is 350mm. The 15 S/D has 17 tons of clamping force and a 560mm opening stroke. Mold width is 560mm, and mold height is 500mm.
An electromechanical rotary servo motor drives the SmartLine clamping unit. The clamping unit uses a swivel drive, which moves precisely to the required angle and stops. Bekum said this allows for a compact design, simple control and better accuracy.
The machines feature the energy-efficient HiPEx 36D extruders with Bekum’s proprietary extrusion heads. The company said the extruders deliver good melt quality at low temperatures. This enables high process stability, maximum output rates and good melt homogeneity, and works well with sensitive materials.
Spiral mandrel extrusion heads provide multi-layer capability with recyclates, chalk fillers and post-consumer resin.
The machines have the proven Bekum Control 8.0 control system with a 24-inch high-definition portrait touch display. Industry 4.0 functions are integrated into the system.
Bekum’s SmartConnect system can provide real-time remote support.
The company said the machines’ modern design supports easy maintenance access, faster mold changes and operator convenience in daily operations.
New sourcing and manufacturing concepts result in lower investment costs, the company said.
“A strategic milestone is the world premiere of our fully electric SmartLine series,” said Managing Partner Michael Mehnert. “We clearly understand that our customers, particularly in consumer packaging, must calculate sharply. With the new SmartLine, we were able to reduce machine investment costs by 30 percent.”
Contact:
Bekum America, Williamston, Mich., 517-655-7163, https://bekumamerica.com
