PET-Line Netstal’s injection molding system for preforms is designed for high output and efficiency, with integrated recuperation of kinetic braking energy from the clamping unit and post-mold cooling station. The machines come in three clamping forces — about 337 tons, 450 tons and 562 tons — and can run molds with up to 192 cavities, using up to 100 percent recycled (PET).
What’s new? Multiple upgrades. The optional System Pressure Reduction function continuously maintains pressure in the hydraulic system at the optimum point, reducing energy consumption. An integrated camera-based quality monitoring system, developed with partner IMDvista, guarantees real-time detection of defects and features intelligent self-learning, while Quality Shot allows operators to take random samples for in-depth laboratory testing. The company is also adding tasks to its Axos machine control system, beginning with the Quick Mold Change task, which provides operators with graphics and descriptions of the steps to execute a mold change in the shortest possible time. More tasks will be added in the future.
Benefits Improved energy efficiency, quality control and ease of use. A new PET-Line 4000, with about 450 tons of clamping force, will be shown at Drinktec in September in Munich, producing preforms with 30 percent rPET using a newly developed self-cleaning mold from Netstal’s parent company, Krones.
Netstal Inc., Hebron, Ky., 978-772-5100, www.netstal.com
Lynne Sherwin | Managing Editor
Managing editor Lynne Sherwin handles day-to-day operations and coordinates production of Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing’s print magazine, website and social media presence, as well as Plastics Recycling and The Journal of Blow Molding. She also writes features, including the annual machinery buying survey. She has more than 30 years of experience in daily and magazine journalism.
