Bottling comes out of the blocks

Krones subsidiary Kosme, based in Italy, has unveiled a ‘block configuration’ bottling line called the 3Bloc, which comes in two different variants for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) containers.

The 3Bloc for PET comprises three concatenated machines: blow-moulder, filler and labeller. The Flexa labeller version can vary, either featuring pressure-sensitive labelling with a Flexa Sensicol station or wrap-around labelling with a roll-feed capability. It is suitable both for cylindrical and square PET bottles and also for containers with special shapes. The maximum speed is 16,000 bottles an hour.

In the case of HDPE containers, the blow-moulder is replaced by an ‘unscrambler’ for erecting containers as they are fed in. This 3Bloc variant is able to handle up to 25,000 bottles an hour.

The 3Bloc design is claimed to significantly reduce energy consumption compared with individual machines, while offering higher efficiency and enhanced operator-friendliness, thanks to its human machine interface.

It also boasts a smaller footprint, plus reduced capital investment and operating costs compared with using three separate units.

For example, intermediate conveyors are no longer needed, and the times required for changeovers and maintenance work are shortened as well.

Contact: Krones