Sidel’s EvoBLOW Laser in operation at Refresco’s Bruchsal plant
In Bruchsal, Germany, Refresco has been using Sidel’s EvoBLOW Laser technology for more than a year. The system, designed for PET bottle lightweighting, is reported to enhance efficiency in packaging line operations.
When Refresco sought to lightweight their 1.5L PET bottle while maintaining consistent, top-quality performance, the new development for the task was Sidel’s EvoBLOW Laser. Unlike traditional halogen-powered preform heating, this laser-powered solution is claimed to enable precise, pinpoint preform heating, with full control and up to 36 heating lines along the preform.
According to the company, the precision of this laser-based technology enables a result that is not possible with today’s halogen solutions. Gabriele Luna, Head of Indirect Procurement at Refresco, states that the technology has enabled the company to reduce the weight of its bottles while maintaining their strength and durability. The company aims to reduce material use, increase the use of recycled content, and improve operational efficiency across its European sites.
Lightweighting, stability, ease
Refresco reports that the EvoBLOW Laser stretch-blow moulding system enables weight reductions of up to 15% without compromising bottle performance. According to the company, the technology is designed to improve line efficiency and simplify operations, particularly when processing recycled PET (rPET).
The system has been tested at Refresco with up to 100% rPET. Bottles containing 50% and 70% rPET can be produced using the same blowing parameters, the company states. Refresco also cites energy savings during production.
Daniel Debruijn, PET Expert at Refresco says: “Every day, I manage many changes of preform or material. With the traditional halogen oven, we often have to adjust the process multiple times. With the laser, you reload a new recipe, start the blower, and the bottle is right the first time.”
The stability of the process settings helps minimise disruption during unplanned stops. By eliminating warm-up and cool-down times, the system is described as being continuously ready for operation, which the company says supports higher productivity.