BOTTLE MAKING 16 PETplanet Insider Vol. 25 No. 10/24 www.petpla.net Balancing consumer demand and environmental responsibility in large-size PET containers with Sipa technology The sustainability imperative In an era marked by increasing environmental awareness, the beverage industry faces the challenge of meeting consumer demand while adopting sustainable practices. One area where this tension is particularly evident is in the production of large-size PET containers, typically those exceeding 5 l. While these containers offer convenience and practicality, their environmental impact must be carefully considered. Advances in technology, alongside a growing commitment to circularity are paving the way for more sustainable solutions in this sector. Large-size PET containers, often used for water coolers and bulk dispensing, offer several sustainability advantages over their smaller, single-serve counterparts. Firstly, they require less PET resin per unit volume, minimising raw material consumption and reducing waste. Secondly, their larger format enhances transportation efficiency, lowering fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, many of these containers are refillable and reusable, significantly extending their lifecycle and minimising waste. Sipa, well-known in the large-size PET container market, offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that span the entire production process, from design and engineering to blowing, filling, and palletising. The company’s expertise extends beyond machinery manufacturing, boasting a team of experienced designers and engineers who specialise in creating large-size PET containers that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also optimised for sustainability. Utilising advanced FEA simulation systems and in-house prototyping facilities, Sipa says that its containers meet high standards of performance, durability, and environmental responsibility. The range of blow moulding machines specifically designed for large-size PET container production includes the SFL Maxi and SFL Big linear blowers which cater to small- and medium-scale operations, producing containers from 12 to 30 l. These versatile machines handle both returnable and one-way containers, including those for water dispensers, stackable applications, and various other large formats. For high-speed production of containers up to 12 l, Sipa’s Xtra Big rotary blow moulder is claimed to deliver good performance. From filling to palletising Sipa’s Big Fill volumetric gravity filling monoblock is optimised for handling large formats up to 20 l. This system is claimed to ensure precision and hygiene, featuring no valve-tobottle contact and high flow performance with filling speed modulation. Its stainless steel construction and automated dummy bottles further enhance cleanliness and efficiency. Large-size container filling with Big Fill monobloc Blowing of large size container with inserted handle with SFL Maxi Xtra Big, rotary blowmoulder
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