New line of PET bottle blowing equipment targets emerging markets

SIPA has launched a new line of stretch blowmolding machines tailored for companies in emerging markets looking to enter PET bottling.

This new line, called Start Blow, is available in two versions, with two and four cavities respectively, capable of producing bottles at output speeds from 2000 up to 6000 bottles per hour. Both models are fully electric, with servo drives leading principal movements, including stretch rods.

Martina Bottarel, manager of communications for SIPA, told PlasticsToday the entry-level machines are designed for emerging markets due to its simplicity.

"It's easy to learn, easy to set-up, easy to use," she said.

She cites some of the other qualities that make these machines suitable for emerging markets, including a closed-loop control on servo motors and 15-inch touch-screen HMI.

In addition, she said the machines feature an effective heating process window with less parameters to adjust, but more heating performance.

Featuring a compact layout, the new machines incorporate technologies such as a high-efficiency neck air cooling system and quick and precise stretch and blow, that are borrowed from SIPA's existing SFL and SFR high-output linear and rotary stretch blowmolding machines, the company stated. SIPA said these Start Blow machines still conform to high technical standards, even though they are an entry-level machine.

The company believes the machines will be low on maintenance due to a user-friendly interface and a compact, preform loading system. Customers will be able to start up production of PET bottles in a matter of hours after the machine arrives to their plant.

The market for bottled water continues to grow at a strong rate of around 8% each year, but SIPA believes the growth is shifting to emerging markets.

Bottarel said the company sees huge potential in these machines for emerging markets in South America, Africa and Asia.

"Think of the growing needs for drinking water in crowded cities with difficult logistics," she said. "This means a simple and small bottling line, with small investment and short payback."

SIPA will build the machines in China, where it already has manufacturing operations for processing equipment and molds.

"With Start Blow, we are meeting the needs of new entrants into the market, and we are offering a solution that fits with local requirements," said Enrico Gribaudo, general manager at SIPA. "When companies start up, they need to learn to walk before they run, and learning with Start Blow is very easy."

As companies that use Start Blow grow and gain experience, Gribaudo said SIPA will help them use more sophisticated equipment in various ranges. He said SIPA can supply the molds as well as the machines, and also provide product development assistance when requested.