Established in 1999, SMIFORM is the division of SMI specialized in the design and manufacture of rotary stretch-blow moulders for PET and PP bottles. Water, milk, beer, oil and several drinks are more and more frequently bottled in PET containers, whereas the PP is largely used by the chemical, pharmaceutical and detergents industry. Thanks to the remarkable number of machines sold, SMIForm places itself among the five largest manufacturers of rotary stretch-blow moulders in the world.
The SR series, based on the most advanced technology for stretch-blow moulding, consists of:
- nine standard models, from 4 to 20 cavities, for the stretch-blow moulding of bottles from 0.25 to 3 litres at the maximum speed of 1,800 bph/cavity*;
- two HC – High Capacity models, from 4 to 6 cavities, for the stretch-blow moulding of bottles from 3.5 to 10 litres at the maximum speed of 1,100 bph/cavity*.
The SR stretch-blow moulders are equipped with an innovative air recovery system, which reduces the compressed air consumption by 40%. Moreover, the changeover process is quick and easy: it just requires to modify the parameters through the POSYC interface PC and replace both the moulds and the mould bottoms.
By means of CAD programmes, SMIForm can design 3D containers of different shapes and different degrees of complexity. The Research and Development Centre, equipped with the most advanced technologies and instruments, analyzes the preforms supplied by the customer in order to find any faults or anomalies. Furthermore, all containers manufactured through the stretch-blow moulding process undergo thorough quality, mechanical and heat tests. The testing of new materials or applications, especially in the stretch-blow moulding of multilayer preforms and preforms for hot filling, is the main activity of the Research and Development Centre, which aims at satisfying the customer’s most exigent requests by creating state-of-the-art customized solutions.
*The output rate varies according to the model chosen and to the container type and capacity.
The SR series, based on the most advanced technology for stretch-blow moulding, consists of:
- nine standard models, from 4 to 20 cavities, for the stretch-blow moulding of bottles from 0.25 to 3 litres at the maximum speed of 1,800 bph/cavity*;
- two HC – High Capacity models, from 4 to 6 cavities, for the stretch-blow moulding of bottles from 3.5 to 10 litres at the maximum speed of 1,100 bph/cavity*.
The SR stretch-blow moulders are equipped with an innovative air recovery system, which reduces the compressed air consumption by 40%. Moreover, the changeover process is quick and easy: it just requires to modify the parameters through the POSYC interface PC and replace both the moulds and the mould bottoms.
By means of CAD programmes, SMIForm can design 3D containers of different shapes and different degrees of complexity. The Research and Development Centre, equipped with the most advanced technologies and instruments, analyzes the preforms supplied by the customer in order to find any faults or anomalies. Furthermore, all containers manufactured through the stretch-blow moulding process undergo thorough quality, mechanical and heat tests. The testing of new materials or applications, especially in the stretch-blow moulding of multilayer preforms and preforms for hot filling, is the main activity of the Research and Development Centre, which aims at satisfying the customer’s most exigent requests by creating state-of-the-art customized solutions.
*The output rate varies according to the model chosen and to the container type and capacity.
THE STRETCH-BLOW MOULDING PROCESS
Preforms are conveyed from the storage hopper to the automatic unscrambler; afterwards they move to a spacer star wheel [1], which feeds the chain of the rotary mandrel holders in the heating module [2].
Before entering the heating module [2], each preform is thoroughly controlled and, in the presence of flaws or defects, automatically rejected; then, supported by the mandrels, the preforms move progressively throughout the heating module [2] equipped with infrared lamps. The protection of the preform thread during the heating process is ensured by a liquid cooling closed circuit.
At the heating module outlet [2], an accurate measurement system [3] checks the preform temperatures, compares them with the preset heating parameters and, if necessary, readjusts their value accordingly, taking into account the plant temperature changes as well.
A special rotary group of grippers [4] picks the heated preforms and positions them into the stretch-blow moulding stations [5].
In the stretch-blow moulding stations [6] the preforms undergo two stages: first stretching and pre-blowing, then final blowing by high-pressure air; at this point they are transformed into containers. The mechanical locking of the mould holders allows to bear the strengths generated by the stretch-blow moulding process with the maximum reliability; in addition to that, a counter-pressure air system ensures the perfect locking of the moulds, cooled down by means of a liquid-fed closed circuit.
From the stretch-blow moulding stations [5] the containers are picked up by a second rotary group of grippers [7] and checked again. SMI rotary stretch-blow moulders are available in two different versions: in the standard version the containers are delivered to an air conveyor [8], while in the combi version they immediately enter the filler.
Preforms are conveyed from the storage hopper to the automatic unscrambler; afterwards they move to a spacer star wheel [1], which feeds the chain of the rotary mandrel holders in the heating module [2].
Before entering the heating module [2], each preform is thoroughly controlled and, in the presence of flaws or defects, automatically rejected; then, supported by the mandrels, the preforms move progressively throughout the heating module [2] equipped with infrared lamps. The protection of the preform thread during the heating process is ensured by a liquid cooling closed circuit.
At the heating module outlet [2], an accurate measurement system [3] checks the preform temperatures, compares them with the preset heating parameters and, if necessary, readjusts their value accordingly, taking into account the plant temperature changes as well.
A special rotary group of grippers [4] picks the heated preforms and positions them into the stretch-blow moulding stations [5].
In the stretch-blow moulding stations [6] the preforms undergo two stages: first stretching and pre-blowing, then final blowing by high-pressure air; at this point they are transformed into containers. The mechanical locking of the mould holders allows to bear the strengths generated by the stretch-blow moulding process with the maximum reliability; in addition to that, a counter-pressure air system ensures the perfect locking of the moulds, cooled down by means of a liquid-fed closed circuit.
From the stretch-blow moulding stations [5] the containers are picked up by a second rotary group of grippers [7] and checked again. SMI rotary stretch-blow moulders are available in two different versions: in the standard version the containers are delivered to an air conveyor [8], while in the combi version they immediately enter the filler.
SR series: market segments
» Carbonated drinks
» Still drinks
» Fruit juices
» Still waters
» Carbonated waters
» Isotonic drinks
» Tea
» Milk
» Beer
» Spirits
» Oils
» Sauces
» Detergents
» Chemical products
» Carbonated drinks
» Still drinks
» Fruit juices
» Still waters
» Carbonated waters
» Isotonic drinks
» Tea
» Milk
» Beer
» Spirits
» Oils
» Sauces
» Detergents
» Chemical products
MOULD DESIGNS
DESIGN AND QUALITY CONTROLCONTAINER DESIGNThanks to the use of advanced 3D CAD programs for the technical drawing and graphic processing, the Design Department of the FORM division projects complex-shaped containers.
Basing its work on the particular requests of each customer, the Design Department can propose different solutions so as to allow each company to choose the container model that meets its production demands.
MOULD PRODUCTIONThe MEC division, specialized in the working of mechanical components, is equipped with a FMS line including as many as 12 CNC machining centres for the production of moulds, destined to SMI's and other stretch blow-moulders available in the market place.
These CNC centres run continuously (7 days a week round the clock): they are connected to a CAD/CAM system that processes the container design (CAD) and turns it into a sequence of instructions (CAM) controlling the operation of the machining centres.
PREFORM CHECKThe Research & Development laboratory of the FORM division carries out a detailed analysis of the preforms supplied by the customer, checking their size through a videocamera and a special software for the comparison of the dimensional parameters, measuring their thickness by infrared rays and verifying the polymer homogeneity through polarized light equipment.
In addition to the above mentioned controls, the Research & Development laboratory of the FORM division deals with the testing of new materials and applications, too, to be used in the stretch blow-moulding of multilayer or hot filling preforms. Thanks to this laboratory's activity, SMI has also been one of the first companies to set up and promote a new technology for the stretch blow-moulding of polypropylene containers.
CONTAINER TESTS
In the Research & Development laboratory of the FORM division all the containers produced through the stretch blow-moulding process are tested to check their mechanical and thermal features, such as:
the resistance to deformations, the top load, the drop impact resistance, the homogeneous distribution of the resin, the burst pressure, the permeability to O2 and CO2 and the acetaldehyde concentration.
Contact in Vietnam: Mr.Nguyen Van Tu - Cell: 84 979770424 - Email: cam-nhung@hcm.vnn.vn or sidelviet@hcm.vnn.vn
NEW "BFS HC" SERIESIntegrated systems of blowing-filling-cappingfor High Capacity containers
SMI laboratories' relentless engagement in Research & Development activities led to the launch on the market of innovative integrated systems of stretch-blow moulding, filling and capping of PET containers; in fact, the new BFS series crowns the whole range of Smiform products dedicated to the "Liquid Food & Beverages" sector.
BFS 4-14-4 HC and BFS 6-18-4 HC integrated systems can be conveniently employed in the bottling lines of still water and edible oil. Their compact modular frame and the use of state-of-the-art technology ensure a perfect synchronization between the "dry" environment of the stretch-blow moulding module and the "wet" environment of the filling module. Moreover, outstanding price/quality ratio and dramatic cutback of operating costs make of BFS series the ideal solution for manufacturing, filling and capping PET containers with capacity from 4 to 10 liters up to 6,600 bph (depending on the machine model and on the container characteristics).
When choosing an integrated solution
Combining stretch-blow moulding, filling and capping operations in one single machine offers major benefits if you are looking for a cost-cutting, space-saving solution and for easier maintenance operations. The direct connection between the blowing module and the filling module reduces the number of machines installed, as there is no need for a rinser, accumulation conveyours and conveyours between the blower and the filler
Why choosing BFS integrated systems
Quick and easy changeover Each container's manufacturing parameters are stored in the operator control panel, from which the machine operator can conveniently select the required format by a simple "touch" on the screen. While in the filling module the changeover doesn't require any mechanical part replacement, in a few minutes the machine operator can complete the stretch-blow moulding module's mechanical adjustments, the mould and the equipment replacement (if necessary) using the tool kit included in the machine supply.Easy access and maintenance operations Thanks to the "Baseless" technology employed, the BFS integrated system features a compact and operator-friendly design, as the area underneath the bottles is completely clear, facilitating the operator's access to the machine for maintenance and cleaning operations.
High reliability of the stretch-blow moulding process The stretch-blow moulding process is based on a highly reliable cam-controlled technology; furthermore, the direct control of each single blowing station from the POSYC operator panel provides, in case of failure, the possibility to stop the troubled blowing stations only, without interrupting the bottle manufacturing process.All BFS integrated systems are equipped with an air recovery system, an eco-compatible and cost-saving solution providing up to 40% cutbacks on compressed air consumption, as a part of the high pressure air circulating in the blowing circuit is recovered and recycled.
Electronic filling: high precision and low operating costs Smiform BFS integrated systems rely on an electronic filling process, which can be: - volumetric, based on magnetic flow meters, for conductive liquids such as flat water; - massic, with mass meters based on the Coriolis' principle, for non conductive liquids such as edible oil.
The filling process is carried out without any contact between the bottle and the filling valve, thus reducing the moving mechanical parts (there is no need of jacks lifting the bottle) and preserving the integrity and quality of the liquid being bottled.
Compact, clean and safe equipment The filling module of Smiform BFS systems has been designed as a "filling room", where the absence of moving parts underneath the bottles allows to keep the whole equipment clean and safe. Motors are placed in a totally dry spot of the machine's upper section, fully insulated from the working environment, in order to protect them from any damage caused by liquids or powders and to prevent the fall of lubricants on the underlying filling and capping modules.
The capping module: high precision and easy access The capping module of Smiform BFS systems is equipped with servo-motorised control of the capping heads, so as to grant high precision in the application of screw caps. The cap feeding hopper is positioned outside the machine, at an easy-access height for the operator. Caps are fed to the capping module through an air-thrust horizontal channel, so as to ensure a quick reset of the capping module operation in case of cap jam and to provide an effective cap accumulation buffer capable of balancing machine breakdowns.
For further information on the new range of Smiform BFS integrated systems, please contact our Sales Department. Marketing DepartmentSMI S.p.A.E-mail: info@smigroup.itwww.smigroup.it
SMI laboratories' relentless engagement in Research & Development activities led to the launch on the market of innovative integrated systems of stretch-blow moulding, filling and capping of PET containers; in fact, the new BFS series crowns the whole range of Smiform products dedicated to the "Liquid Food & Beverages" sector.
BFS 4-14-4 HC and BFS 6-18-4 HC integrated systems can be conveniently employed in the bottling lines of still water and edible oil. Their compact modular frame and the use of state-of-the-art technology ensure a perfect synchronization between the "dry" environment of the stretch-blow moulding module and the "wet" environment of the filling module. Moreover, outstanding price/quality ratio and dramatic cutback of operating costs make of BFS series the ideal solution for manufacturing, filling and capping PET containers with capacity from 4 to 10 liters up to 6,600 bph (depending on the machine model and on the container characteristics).
When choosing an integrated solution
Combining stretch-blow moulding, filling and capping operations in one single machine offers major benefits if you are looking for a cost-cutting, space-saving solution and for easier maintenance operations. The direct connection between the blowing module and the filling module reduces the number of machines installed, as there is no need for a rinser, accumulation conveyours and conveyours between the blower and the filler
Why choosing BFS integrated systems
Quick and easy changeover Each container's manufacturing parameters are stored in the operator control panel, from which the machine operator can conveniently select the required format by a simple "touch" on the screen. While in the filling module the changeover doesn't require any mechanical part replacement, in a few minutes the machine operator can complete the stretch-blow moulding module's mechanical adjustments, the mould and the equipment replacement (if necessary) using the tool kit included in the machine supply.Easy access and maintenance operations Thanks to the "Baseless" technology employed, the BFS integrated system features a compact and operator-friendly design, as the area underneath the bottles is completely clear, facilitating the operator's access to the machine for maintenance and cleaning operations.
High reliability of the stretch-blow moulding process The stretch-blow moulding process is based on a highly reliable cam-controlled technology; furthermore, the direct control of each single blowing station from the POSYC operator panel provides, in case of failure, the possibility to stop the troubled blowing stations only, without interrupting the bottle manufacturing process.All BFS integrated systems are equipped with an air recovery system, an eco-compatible and cost-saving solution providing up to 40% cutbacks on compressed air consumption, as a part of the high pressure air circulating in the blowing circuit is recovered and recycled.
Electronic filling: high precision and low operating costs Smiform BFS integrated systems rely on an electronic filling process, which can be: - volumetric, based on magnetic flow meters, for conductive liquids such as flat water; - massic, with mass meters based on the Coriolis' principle, for non conductive liquids such as edible oil.
The filling process is carried out without any contact between the bottle and the filling valve, thus reducing the moving mechanical parts (there is no need of jacks lifting the bottle) and preserving the integrity and quality of the liquid being bottled.
Compact, clean and safe equipment The filling module of Smiform BFS systems has been designed as a "filling room", where the absence of moving parts underneath the bottles allows to keep the whole equipment clean and safe. Motors are placed in a totally dry spot of the machine's upper section, fully insulated from the working environment, in order to protect them from any damage caused by liquids or powders and to prevent the fall of lubricants on the underlying filling and capping modules.
The capping module: high precision and easy access The capping module of Smiform BFS systems is equipped with servo-motorised control of the capping heads, so as to grant high precision in the application of screw caps. The cap feeding hopper is positioned outside the machine, at an easy-access height for the operator. Caps are fed to the capping module through an air-thrust horizontal channel, so as to ensure a quick reset of the capping module operation in case of cap jam and to provide an effective cap accumulation buffer capable of balancing machine breakdowns.
For further information on the new range of Smiform BFS integrated systems, please contact our Sales Department. Marketing DepartmentSMI S.p.A.E-mail: info@smigroup.itwww.smigroup.it
