Extrusion International USA 2-2019

20 Extrusion International 2/2019 INDUSTRY NEWS Efficient Automation Kiefel GmbH, based in Freilassing/Germany, focuses on ef- ficient automation of steel rule cutting for thermoforming machines. Kiefel now offers the SpeedPacker - an optimized product packing module for the KMD Speedformer Series. It significantly increases productivity. The thermoforming specialists have launched the SpeedPack- er. This powerful module is not only suitable for the Kiefel KMD Speedformer, but is also compatible with other manu- facturers’ steel rule cutting machines. The SpeedPacker is a buffering and unloading station that is fully integrated into the steel rule cutting machine. Buffering is key to reducing personnel requirements and achieving tremendous cost sav- ings. The ergonomically optimized SpeedPacker ensures safe operation. The level of the unloading belt can easily be adjust- ed to the suit the height of the operator. Retrofitting is also possible for machines already in use. Kiefel machines are modular and can be expanded as re- quired. Various stacking solutions, quality control, and pack- ing units are available. Automation is a considerable success factor for efficient manufacturing and enhanced productiv- ity. KIEFEL GmbH www.kiefel.com “We are always thinking about enabling our customers to optimally achieve efficient production,” says Erwin Wabnig, Head of the Kiefel Packaging Division. “The forming and cut- ting stations of our high-speed pressure forming systems are already very efficient. Time savings are also possible in the next steps”, he explains. “Reliable stackingwith buffering and rapid unloading permit fast packing or filling of formed parts, further increasing productivity.”. SpeedPacker - Buffer and Unloading Station for KMD Speedformer Series Davis-Standard, LLC www.davis-standard.com Seven-Layer Line In only two years since installing a seven-layer Davis-Standard blown film line, Rani Plast of Finland is experiencing profitable outcomes for its agricultural filmoperation. Since the line’s start- up in August of 2016, Rani Plast has expanded its family-run business by optimizing production, developing its distributor network and introducing new products. At the time of installa- tion, this was the largest seven-layer blown film line Davis-Stan- dard had ever built for a customer. “Before this line, we lacked capacity and were limited to film widths of 18meters. Being able to run expandedwidths has giv- en us access to new distributors and end customers”, explained Mikael Ahlback, Group CEO of Rani Plast. “It has also given us greater flexibility to react on immediate demands from custom- ers, shortening lead times. We’re able to offer new products such as EVOH-based barrier films that will be available the next agricultural season. This product will be sold as an underlay film as well as a conventional silage filmto help customersmake bet- ter silage than before.” Ahlback explained the demand for silage films, one of Rani Plast’s largest markets, has risen due to the increased size of farming operations. Silage film provides an economical way to preserve and protect feed for animals. The seven-layer structure has helped Rani Plast optimize mechanical film properties for this film in a manner not previously possible. In addition to si- lage, Rani Plast uses the seven-layer line for making wider films used in covering peat and turf. The line’s design is a reflection of careful planning and custom- ized engineering. A 2.3-meter, seven-layer Centrex IBC die has been an integral part of performance. This die supports en- hanced filmqualitywhile providing Rani Plast with versatility for their diverse portfolio. This includes the capacity to process high- quality films with optimized coextrusion ratios for thicker skin layers and low-percentage core layers for barrier-based struc- tures, as well as non-barrier structures using a variety of polymer blends. The die and tower are capable of producing a bubble up to 23 meters unfolded at high-output rates with a dual-lip, au- tomatic profile control air ring. The line’s seven Davis-Standard MAC extruders are fitted with DSB ® feedscrews for homog- enous mixing and low-temperature melt streams, essential to filmquality and the production of large width films. Rani Plast installation