Colour correction in rPET preforms
Intravis has announced a collaboration with Husky Technologies that integrates Intravis’ preform monitoring system, PreMon, with Husky’s HyPET6e platform. This collaboration was demonstrated at the NPE trade show in May 2024 and introduces a closed-loop application for rPET preform production that improves and enables circular economy.
Closed-loop technology
At the heart of this collaboration is the closed-loop application, which focuses on colour correction in rPET preform production. The solution is claimed to provide automatic colour adjustment to reduce colour variability in PET preforms made from recycled content. By using an OPC UA interface for communication, the PreMon and the Husky HyPET6e system work in tandem to monitor and adjust colour values in real-time. According to the companies, this integration ensures fast feedback and immediate corrections, with masterbatch automatically added to immediately address any significant yellowing of the preforms. The fast response capability aims for consistent quality and minimises waste, enhancing overall production efficiency without the need for operator intervention, said Intravis.
Driving circular economy with rPET bottle production
At NPE, the production of a lightweight preform made entirely from 100% rPET was presented to be blown into a 595 ml bottle. Weighing 5.89 g, the preform supports the circular economy using recycled materials without compromising performance. The HyPET 400 HPP6e system was equipped with a 144-cavity, 45-pitch mould running at a cycle time of 4.5 s, achieving a production speed of around 120,000 preforms per hour. The companies said that both the HyPET6e system and the PreMon can handle this rapid pace, ensuring seamless integration and continuous, high-quality output.
Detailed quality monitoring beyond colour
In addition to colour inspection, the PreMon provides comprehensive monitoring of several other critical quality characteristics in rPET preform production. The colour inspection evaluates L*a*b* values, colour intensity, colour deviation, and yellowness effect. The monitoring system includes long gate inspection to detect any overlength at the injection point, which can affect the finish of the final product. Furthermore, it inspects the preform body for contaminations such as black spots and contrasting impurities, which can compromise the structural integrity and appearance. The sealing surface undergoes two distinct inspections: one to detect short shots, ensuring that the preform mouth is properly formed, and another to identify any defects that could affect the sealing surface and usability of the final bottle.