With its InnoPET FreshSafe QuadBlock, KHS GmbH is setting new standards. The unique system combines stretch blow molding, labeling and filling modules with InnoPET Plasmax barrier technology for the very first time in a groundbreaking innovation for PET bottle manufacture.
Stretch blow molding, filling and labeling: these core PET bottle manufacturing processes on the tried-and-tested InnoPET TriBlock from KHS all function with maximum efficiency. With the InnoPET FreshSafe QuadBlock, KHS GmbH has now logically further developed the TriBlock and in doing so introduced a new product to the world market. The block permits complete manufacture of PET bottles with an integrated barrier coating, thus ensuring a high degree of protection and considerably longer shelf lives for the filled product.
“For us, the InnoPET FreshSafe QuadBlock is the next logical step in machine blocking,” says Dr. Joachim Konrad, head of the Large Machine Product Division at KHS. “By further developing our existing blocks for PET bottle manufacture and filling, we’re not only boosting our customers’ line efficiency but also helping them in their effort to be more sustainable.”
Stable, lightweight PET bottles with an integrated barrier coating
The InnoPET FreshSafe QuadBlock efficiently manufactures and fills PET bottles in various shapes and sizes. They all have one thing in common: an extremely low weight coupled with optimum stability. This allows customers to save on packaging materials and at the same time benefit from maximum product safety.
This is facilitated by KHS’ InnoPET Plasmax barrier technology. This process applies a wafer-thin layer of glass to the inner wall of the PET bottle, effectively protecting sensitive products from carbon dioxide loss and oxygen pickup. “The InnoPET FreshSafe QuadBlock unfolds its full potential with carbonated beverages in particular: product shelf lives can be extended so that they’re two to six times longer,” explains Philipp Langhammer, product manager for barrier technology at KHS. The barrier technology has another key advantage when the coated bottles are returned to the recycling loop: like pure PET, they are fully recyclable.
