In addition to the updated drive technology, Netstal updated its control technology with digital controllers combined with what it calls state-of-the-art valve technology. The power requirement of the updated line is approximately 10 percent less when compared to the previous PET-Line design, but it achieves up to 20 percent energy savings when compared to competing models, says Reto Bamert, sales manager of the PET business unit. The recovered energy is used for other energy needs in the system. All of the electric drive motors on the redesigned PET-Line models are interconnected through an intermediate circuit that allows the system to recover the braking energy generated during operation. PET-Line models no longer operate with constant pump pressure and instead incorporate an energy-efficient adaptive drive unit with a variable controller. Netstal, a member of KraussMaffei Group, Munich, revamped its PET-Line for increased operating speed coupled with energy efficiency.

The machinery line also includes the PET-Line 4000 with 440 tons of clamping force and the PET-Line 2400 with 264 tons of clamping force. The unit, designed for molds with 96 to 144 cavities, has 550 tons of clamping force. Netstal-Machinery Ltd., NГ¤fels, Switzerland, introduced the updated PET-Line 5000, its largest PET preform injection machine designed expressly for processors looking for extremely high output. Suppliers of PET preform machinery added capability to the market in the form of larger unit sizes, faster production speeds with lower energy consumption, multi-layer preforms containing a small quantity of barrier material, and a tool maintenance approach with low impact on production.

Pet preform injection molding machine