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Reliable Heat Balance Achieved with Advanced Insulating Sheets

Reliable Heat Balance Achieved with Advanced Insulating Sheets

Optimum heat management for injection moulding tools

Keeping the temperature balance of an injection moulding tool constant is of elementary importance for efficient and resource-saving production. Many factors can influence the parameters in an injection moulding cycle: the ambient temperature in the production rooms, the humidity and the temperature of the injection moulding machine. It is not seldom that the uncontrolled heat loss out of heated injection moulding and compression moulding tools into the platens of the injection moulding machine are responsible for this. It is a case here of keeping the temperature where it is actually needed. This ensures stable production and makes sure that the desired results are obtained. With its extensive portfolio of thermal insulation sheets, HASCO offers the right solution here for every application.

For HASCO – the pioneer of mouldmaking for more than 100 years – heat management is seen as one of the key tasks for the implementation of demanding injection moulding requirements. Back at the design phase, mouldmakers can make an important contributioSn to the fine adjustment of the heat balance in the mould by taking into account special components for the insulation.

Wide range of HASCO thermal insulating sheets

Function of the insulating sheet

The task of the thermal insulating sheet is, as the name suggests, to insulate the mould. Heat losses through radiation, convection or contact transfer need to be avoided. For effective and reliable protection, a thermal balance is needed in the injection moulding cycle. Energy is introduced through cooling and possibly the hot runner technology in order to keep the cavity and the melt within the necessary temperature window. The faster and more reliably these temperatures are reached and adhered to, the sooner production can begin.

Stress through high pressure

A major factor during the injection moulding process is the pressure of several hundred tons that is repeatedly built up with every mould closure and affects the entire mould structure. The fact that a composite panel like the insulating sheet has to withstand the same loads as a steel panel explains the necessity for the corresponding quality.

HASCO thermal insulating sheets in detail

For this purpose, HASCO provides its customers with the right components. The thermal insulating sheets Z121/…, Z1212…/Z1213/…, Z12120/… and Z12010/…- Z12015… are ideal for thermally insulating the mould from the injection moulding machine. Heat transfer is minimised or excluded completely. In addition, the heat distribution in the actual mould is homogenised. Productivity increases are achieved on the one hand in the fields of part quality and process reliability, and on the other, through high effectivity, resulting from the uniform distribution of the heat in the mould.

Sustainability and energy savings

Indirectly, the thermal insulating sheets help to ensure that the heating elements in the moulding tool do not have to be supplied up to the limit with valuable energy. The reduced load leads to longer lifetimes of the elements. In addition, the defined mould temperature in the mould is reached faster, which accelerates the start of the production. With simple optimisation of design, up to 50 percent energy can, in comparison, be saved, and the process can be made more sustainable.

Thermal conductivities of different materials

Technical properties and material composition

The rectangular and square thermal insulating sheets, consisting of glass fibre and synthetic resin material combinations, have good dimensional stability, ensure outstanding thermal properties and have excellent chemical resistance. The application-specific adjustment to the thermal requirements is achieved by the material composition. With an increase in the resin content, the thermal conductivity is reduced, while a comparatively higher glass fibre content increases the compressive strength.

Criteria for selecting the right thermal insulating sheet

The parallelism of the thermal insulating sheet also plays an important role in the selection. It is important that the cavities of the two mould halves run absolutely parallel to each other. Flash formation or poorer ventilation of the mould are undesirable accompanying phenomena if this rule is not adhered to.

And finally, the dimension of each sheet has an influence on the functionality. HASCO thermal insulating sheets are available in thicknesses of 3 to 8.5 mm and are oriented with their dimensions to the common sizes of the platens. When developing the sheets, account was taken in each case of a minus tolerance so that they are not damaged through side stresses.

Customised solutions

In addition to the standard products in various dimensions and designs, HASCO also offers customised solutions for special applications. On the one hand, they refer to the measurements of the products, which are made individually for the customers according to their specifications. For work in a clean room, as in the fields of medical technology or the food industry, the sheets are provided with a PTFE protective coating, which prevents the dissolving of substances during production that would contaminate the article. Apart from that, the possibility of oils and lubricants penetrating the sheet is excluded.

Digital support through the HASCO App

To simplify selection and definition from the wide-ranging portfolio, HASCO provides digital support in the form of an App, which also offers further helpful functions. Here, the mouldmaker or designer can himself determine the surface temperature on the thermal insulating sheet through the input of sheet type and its thickness as well as the mould temperature.

Investment in quality pays off

Summarising, the following selection criteria are of key importance for choosing the right thermal insulating sheet:

  • Temperature resistance
  • Insulation value or thermal conductivity
  • Compressive strength / dimensional stability
  • Evenness
  • Abrasion resistance

These criteria should be taken into account when selecting the mould insulation. Investment in quality and long service life always pay for themselves through the longer lifecycle of the injection moulding tool.

www.hasco.com/de

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Innovative CFP Technology Redefines Fiber Compounding Efficiency

Innovative CFP Technology Redefines Fiber Compounding Efficiency

  • Noticeable cost advantages with consistent component quality ROI in less than a year
  • Patented screw geometry for fiber-friendly compounding and maximum efficiency
  • Greater formulation flexibility for component-specific applications
  • Live at K 2025: GX 650-4300 with new LRXplus 350 linear robot

With its new Chopped Fiber Processing (CFP) technology, KraussMaffei is setting a milestone in the processing of fiber-reinforced thermoplastics. This innovative process enables the direct, fiber-friendly compounding of polypropylene (PP) and chopped glass fibers in the injection molding process for the first time. Visitors to K can experience the CFP technology live at the exhibition stand: A GX 650-4300 with the new LRXplus 350 linear robot is producing a complex tailgate component for the automotive industry.

“With the unique CFP technology, we offer our customers a true game changer that significantly reduces their material costs in the production of fiber-reinforced components. We are particularly proud of the heart of the new CFP technology, the patented screw geometry, which was developed specifically for the technology by KraussMaffei,” says Jörg Stech, CEO of KraussMaffei Technologies GmbH.

Technological edge through flexible direct compounding

Compared to traditional processes using pre-compounded long glass fiber granulate, the CFP technology enables separate dosing of PP and glass fibers. Both components can be supplied directly via the machine’s conveyor system, homogenized in the cylinder, and processed particularly gently with the help of the new CFP screw. This offers the advantage that no fiber clusters are formed during processing, thus ensuring optimum component properties at significantly lower material costs.

Individually customizable formulations – with cost savings of 30%

The CFP technology enables plastic processors to individually dose and mix polymers and fibers. This allows them to develop their own formulations for components and build up material expertise, giving them a targeted competitive advantage. At the same time, savings in material usage lead to cost reductions of up to 30 percent and a noticeable reduction in the product carbon footprint (PCF) through inline compounding.

ROI in less than 12 months – easy to retrofit

Other highlights of the new CFP technology include compatibility with KraussMaffei machine series and easy retrofitting – even for existing, older systems using the KraussMaffei Retrofit Program. Thanks to the material savings and process advantages that can be achieved, the return on investment (ROI) is less than one year.

Live demonstration at K 2025

Live at K 2025, visitors can experience the CFP technology on a GX 650-4300 (clamping force 6500 kN) with an LRXplus 350 linear robot. The production of a complex, functionally integrated tailgate component with realistic 3D geometry and high functional integration will be demonstrated – without reworking and ready for assembly straight from the machine. This opens up new possibilities for the manufacture of structural and support components as well as reinforcement elements.

In line with the trade fair motto “Performance. Perfected. For You.” the GX 650-4300 is equipped with proven BluePower options such as servo drive and insulating sleeves. With BluePower energy and performance monitoring, plastics processors are able to call up precise energy consumption data. In addition, the BluePower ecoAssistant enables the machine to be switched to an energy-efficient mode at the touch of a button while maintaining the same performance.

The component is filled in cascade via three injection points. The proven APCplus machine function impresses with new features at K. For example, cascadeX ensures weld line-free filling behavior and improved mechanical properties in applications with cascades. The APCplus function materialX uses material-specific compression curves to control the injection molding process. This achieves a particularly high level of component precision.

Complete process documentation – accessible at any time

The weigh unit integrated into the gripper of the LRXplus 350 determines and records the weight of the components cycle by cycle. All production data and quality characteristics are documented online. Upon removal, all components are given an individual QR code imprint. This enables KraussMaffei to offer plastics processors the option of retrieving the quality characteristics of a component and its production data online at any time, e.g. for quality assurance purposes.

Wide range of applications: from automotive to aviation

Whether in the automotive and aerospace industries or in technical consumer goods, KraussMaffei’s new CFP technology offers a high degree of flexibility in the production of structural and load-bearing components as well as reinforcement elements – and that with significant cost advantages.

Partners in the trade fair exhibit are: Borealis Polyolefins GmbH (material), Siebenwurst GmbH & Co. KG (tooling), motan gmbh (material feeding), Audia Plastics s.r.o. (color batch), Helm AG (glass fiber).

https://www.kraussmaffei.com/

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Regional Economic Slowdown Leaves Its Mark on Half Year 2025 Business Results

Regional Economic Slowdown Leaves Its Mark on Half Year 2025 Business Results

  • MOL Group’s profit before tax reached USD 236 mn in the second quarter of 2025, down by 56% year-on-year due to lower operating profits but supported by finance gains.
  • Upstream’s performance was influenced by decreasing oil and gas prices, while production remained at high levels.
  • Downstream’s performance was lowered due to the regional slowdown in demand, but the effect of lower prices was largely offset by strong sales volumes.
  • Consumer Services’ performance was supported by contributions from both fuel and non-fuel sides.
  • Circular Economy Services reported a negative EBITDA of USD 10 mn due to seasonally higher operating expenses.
  • Gas midstream performance declined despite high transmission volumes.

Today, MOL Group announced its financial results for Q2 and H1 2025. In the second quarter of the year, MOL Group delivered USD 236 mn profit before tax, marking a 56% decrease year-on-year. Slowing regional macroeconomic environment impacted performance adversely in Q2; however, this was offset by high production levels in Upstream, strong volumes in Downstream and growing Consumer Services performance.

Chairman-CEO Zsolt Hernádi commented on the results: “Geopolitical tensions and regional macroeconomic challenges significantly impacted our performance; however, our integrated business model helped us mitigate the impacts. Based on our first-half results, we have reaffirmed our 2025 guidance, albeit the risks to reaching the guidance have increased as the volatility in external conditions has grown since we announced our expectations in February.

We respond to global challenges with conscious planning, dedicated work and a future-proof strategy. We also need to do our homework in terms of efficiency improvement; therefore, we have launched a comprehensive program in downstream, which aims to generate USD 500 mn improvement per year. This not only mitigates the effect of the worsening macro environment but also brings USD 200mn additional EBITDA for the downstream segment beyond 2027 via multiple new measures not yet included in the strategy. We are further deepening our strategic cooperation with our Azerbaijani and Kazakh partners, enabling us to take important steps in joint exploration and production and in the diversification of crude oil. We took a role in the renewal of the Budapest University of Technology and Economics as a strategic investor, enabling us to enhance our innovation capacities and to train and attract engineers with state-of-the-art knowledge—a crucial step for the future of MOL Group.”

Upstream results decreased quarter-on-quarter as both oil and gas prices marked a double-digit decrease in Q2. Production remained at high levels with an average of 93.5 mboepd in Q2 2025, in the upper half of the guidance band of 92-94 mboepd, marking a slight quarter-on-quarter decrease due to the underperformance of international assets. Meanwhile, key terms were signed with SOCAR to enter onshore exploration in the Shamakhi-Gobustan region of Azerbaijan as operator with a 65% stake.

The Downstream segment’s performance declined year-on-year as the slowing regional macroeconomic environment weighed on prices, but strong production and sales volumes, which were highest in a decade, could largely offset the effect of decreasing margins. Petrochemicals remained loss-making due to the continuing contraction in demand, which has not yet eased.

A new comprehensive program was launched to improve the operational and financial resiliency of Downstream in a more volatile external environment. The “Tomorrow Downstream” program aims to generate USD 500 mn in annual improvement beyond 2027, offsetting the worsening macro effects and delivering an additional USD 200 mn to the annual USD 1.2 bn downstream strategic EBITDA target.

Consumer Services delivered continued growth, supported by a strong season on both fuel and non-fuel sides, despite the macroeconomic environment remaining a challenge in the core countries. Fuel margins continued to strengthen on the Romanian and Croatian markets, while the dynamics of non-fuel expansion remained healthy. The rollout of the Fresh Corner concept continued at train stations and in railway dining cars, and the network expanded to 1,356 units by the end of Q2 2025, marking a 1% increase quarter-on-quarter and 7% year-on-year.

Circular Economy Services reported a negative EBITDA of USD 10 mn due to seasonally higher operating expenses. The main CAPEX priority remained ramping up the Deposit Return System (DRS), with redemption being available at nearly 5,000 locations. Beverage packaging returns grew by 34% quarter-on-quarter, reaching approximately 8.7 million units per day.

Gas Midstream EBITDA declined year-on-year despite the strong demand for transmission services, in line with the lower tariff environment.

https://molgroup.info/en

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Awarded Prestigious Top Employer 2025 Recognition in India for Outstanding People Management and HR Innovation

Awarded Prestigious Top Employer 2025 Recognition in India for Outstanding People Management and HR Innovation

UFlex Limited, India’s largest multinational flexible packaging and solutions company, has been recognised as a Top Employer in India by the Top Employers Institute, a leading global authority on HR excellence, certifying and guiding organizations to adopt world-class people practices.

This global certification is a benchmark of excellence for people practices and stands as a testament to UFlex’s commitment to being an employer of choice by creating a workplace where both people and purpose thrive. Achieving this recognition involved a thorough assessment of its HR practices across key areas, including people strategy, talent acquisition, learning, diversity & inclusion, and well-being. The recognition reflects the strength of UFlex’s progressive people-first culture and highlights the progress it has made in making UFlex a preferred workplace.

Over the years, UFlex has built a strong people-centric ecosystem backed by employee-first policies and an open, agile culture. The organisation has introduced various initiatives aimed at supporting holistic development and employee well-being. The company offers curated learning paths, leadership development modules, and access to on-demand training through its internal learning platform, supporting continuous professional growth.

Sharing his thoughts on the achievement, Mr. Anantshree Chaturvedi, Vice Chairman and CEO, Flex Films International, said, “This recognition is an important milestone in UFlex’s journey. At UFlex, our people are at the centre of everything we strive to be as an organization. Being named a Top Employer India 2025 goes beyond just this recognition. It reflects the inclusive, progressive, and future-ready work culture we have strived to build. It motivates us to continue investing in our people, nurturing talent, and driving positive change in the packaging industry. This has always been our path to success.”

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. Chandan Chattaraj, President – Human Resources (India and Global), said, “At UFlex, HR transformation has been a continuous and all-encompassing journey focused on strengthening our people practices in alignment with evolving business goals. We nurture talent through future-focused learning, fostering agility and collaboration across our global ‘centers of excellence’, and promoting diversity and inclusion by ensuring equal growth opportunities. Over the years, we have received recognition from esteemed institutions, which has served as an important validation of our progress. Being certified by the Top Employers Institute is a proud moment that highlights our efforts in delivering best-in-class employee experience, making UFlex a preferred workplace.”

“Consistency in a not-so-consistent world? Amidst constant change—through technological advances, economic shifts, and evolving social landscapes—it is inspiring to see people and organisations rise to the challenge. This year, the Top Employers Certification Programme highlights the dedication of our Top Employers as they continue to set the standard, consistently delivering world-class HR strategies and practices. These Top Employers strive to foster growth and well-being, all while enriching the world of work. We are proud to celebrate these people-first leaders and teams as the Top Employers for 2025!”, said, Mr. David Plink, Chief Executive Officer, Top Employers Institute.

The Top Employers Institute program certifies organisations that demonstrate excellence in delivering a superior employee experience. The programme has certified and recognised over 2,400 Top Employers in 125 countries/regions across five continents.

www.uflexltd.com

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An Exclusive Interview on the road to K 2025 with Mr. Dietmar Dieing, Vice President Sales Plast at Sesotec GmbH, AI delivers great benefits for plastics recycling

An Exclusive Interview on the road to K 2025 with Mr. Dietmar Dieing, Vice President Sales Plast at Sesotec GmbH, AI delivers great benefits for plastics recycling

Mr. Dieing, how can planning certainty be provided in terms of the circular economy?

Planning certainty is extremely important for the success of the circular economy. It can only be achieved if reliable material flows are produced, standardised recyclate quality is obtained, and stable legal framework conditions are in place; these are three prerequisites that currently do not exist; many things are lackinging. We do not yet have transparent data on products along the entire value chain; a kind of material passport so to speak. We also do not yet have the necessary partnerships between producers, recyclers and machine manufacturers, or political incentives and detailed standards. We will only be able to sort waste through our sorting machines in such a way that a waste product can later correspond to its original product once all of this is in place.

Which of the above requirements is the most difficult to implement?

The most difficult are probably the political standards and incentive systems for Europe. These must ensure that everyone works under the same conditions. So far, this has only been fragmentary. For example: there is a requirement from the EU Commission that at least 30 percent of recycled materials from post-consumer waste must be used in new products as of 2030. These quotas cannot be met at present, because it is not yet clear exactly in what quality grades the recycled material is available on the market, and in which quantities. It would therefore be important to introduce a regulation stipulating that all products must be manufactured in such a way that they can be recycled.

That means a Design for Recycling?

Exactly. Today, many applications still use composite materials that cannot be reasonably converted into recycled materials. Take multi-layer films in the packaging sector for instance: these consist of several different plastics and cannot be recycled in such a way to produce high- quality films. Mono-layer films on the other hand are very easy to recycle because they consist of a single polymer. The material flow that is then created begins to be recyclable. The goal must be to achieve the best possible material flow, whereby we can state that everything made from this material is truly 100% recyclable. Designing for recycling purposes must be mandatory. If no specific regulation is set, the whole thing will not work.

When do you expect these specifications to be in place?

I am very sure that we still have a long way to go. Nothing is likely to change in the short term. This is due to the economic situation we are facing today, and foreign competition, including in mechanical engineering. The technological possibilities are there, but they are expensive. Many customers are simply not prepared to pay the additional costs. In the end, price always wins.

What are the benefits of artificial intelligence in plastics recycling?

I see a huge benefit in this area: in plastics recycling, we have to process large amounts of data extremely quickly in order to optimise processes. AI is exactly the right tool to do this. In the future, there will be more and more specialised applications for AI. Today, we can use cameras and sensors on our conveyor belts in a post-consumer waste stream to identify the manufacturer of a piece of packaging and the material it is made of. With AI, in the future, we will be able to more or less sort in whatever way we wish. For example, we can retrieve data from the internet about a laptop running on the conveyor belt: what processor it has, what components, or how many rare earths have been used. This will offer considerable advantages in the future, because we will be able to sort for value directly from the first material stream. AI also makes material flows safer. Today, we see many recycling plants catching fire because lithium-ion batteries are passing through the shredder. This will no longer happen with the use of AI.

What is already possible at Sesotec today?

We already use AI on our machines to teach them to recognise images, i.e. products. These products are then automatically recognised by every one of our sorters around the world. We also use AI in our sensor technology, which means we can determine with almost 100% certainty whether a product is polyethylene, polypropylene or polystyrene.

How will plastics engineering fare in the future?

Mechanical engineering companies will hold their own. Innovation in Europe remains very strong. Just think how well the new machines are already able to process recycled materials. If we consistently consider recyclability, we will be able to stay ahead of the competition in the future, especially of our competitors in China. However, the Chinese have now learned to build good machines too. We must therefore prepare ourselves for new competitive behaviour from Asia. Basically, though, I am very optimistic about our future.

https://vdma.eu/

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Promoting Industry Excellence Through Continued Education in Plastics

Promoting Industry Excellence Through Continued Education in Plastics

  • Well-received: Second generation of Diploma Course
  • Training: Engineers from different companies facing current and future challenges
  • Innovative: Students will design solutions with a tangible impact on the plastics industry

The opening ceremony of the second generation of the “Diploma in Plastic Injection Technologies”, a program promoted by Arburg in collaboration with the Tecnológico de Monterrey, took place in May 2025. The ceremony was held at the facilities of the Tec de Monterrey, where authorities from both institutions gathered together with the students of this new group.

During the ceremony, Dr Beatriz Murrieta Cortés, regional director of Tecnológico de Monterrey’s School of Industrial Engineering, welcomed the new students and highlighted the importance of educational opportunities: “It is an honour to receive you to Tecnológico de Monterrey. I invite you to make the most of your classes and to integrate into our community. Your enthusiasm and willingness are fundamental to your success.”

Training to be a catalyst for change

Andrea Sanchez Zamora, Sales Team Leader of Arburg Mexico and graduate of the first generation of the program, also shared an inspiring welcome message: “Each of you has the responsibility to be a catalyst for change in your organisations. The true essence of learning lies in the transmission of that knowledge. Interaction and the exchange of ideas are essential to enrich our perspectives and foster a collaborative environment.”

More than a machine

The program reflects Arburg’s commitment to be more than a machine supplier; it seeks to be a strategic partner in the training of talent. These diploma courses represent a joint effort by both institutions to specialize professionals in the plastics industry in Mexico, ensuring that the content and methodology are at the forefront of the industry. In a context where innovation and quality are crucial, the program seeks to equip young engineers from different companies with the necessary skills to face current and future challenges. In addition, the program offers the opportunity to generate synergy with colleagues in the sector.

Practice-oriented program

Participants will learn not only through theory, but also through the practical application, including analysis of best practices of leading companies. A distinctive feature of the program is the development of applied projects. Students will work on real problems, designing innovative solutions that have a tangible impact on the plastics industry. This practical experience will not only consolidate their learning but also allow them to demonstrate their ability to contribute to the competitiveness of the sector.

Committed to growth

The inauguration of the second generation of the diploma represents a significant advance in one of Arburg’s fundamental pillars: the training of professionals of excellence. These individuals are expected to be innovative and develop a strategic vision that will drive their growth. Upon completion of the program, professionals will be equipped to lead in their organisations and share their knowledge with colleagues. Their ability to implement change will be essential to strengthen the competitiveness of the plastics industry in Mexico, ensuring its relevance in an ever-evolving global marketplace.

https://www.arburg.com/

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An Exclusive Interview on the road to K 2025 with Mr. Timo Horn, Head of Operational Services in Extrusion Technology at Hans Weber Maschinenfabrik GmbH, The use of AI is meant to improve user-friendliness

An Exclusive Interview on the road to K 2025 with Mr. Timo Horn, Head of Operational Services in Extrusion Technology at Hans Weber Maschinenfabrik GmbH, the use of AI is meant to improve user-friendliness

Mr. Horn, to what extent is Hans Weber already relying on artificial intelligence?

Some time ago, we launched a digital customer portal that allows our customers to view operating instructions and create enquiries, among other things. Our next step is to integrate artificial intelligence into this portal, which will make it available to our customers in the near future. This will enable users to address their questions directly to the AI instead of having to search for answers themselves; for example, they can request information on machine maintenance. The aim of this project is to significantly improve user-friendliness. Our customers will be able to access the knowledge provided there and find solutions of their own accord.

Where is AI being implemented?

We opted for a browser-based cloud system that can be accessed from any workstation, as not all customers are willing to integrate machines into their internal network. In addition, operators are often not allowed to access other systems via the HMI while the machine is in operation. Our AI- supported customer portal therefore operates on a browser-based system that can be accessed from any workstation. Maintenance managers, operators and shift supervisors can access the web portal from any location and retrieve information about the machines. The AI we have implemented has been specially trained and optimised for the requirements and characteristics of our machines.

Are you already thinking about incorporating AI within your machines?

No extruder currently exists that has the ability to control itself and make adjustments independently in the event of deviations. Nevertheless, I am convinced that we will be able toeffectively integrate technologies in the field of machine learning in the near future. However, this requires us to gain access to a wide range of comprehensive information and diverse data sources. I am confident that there will soon be a time when machines will be able to take appropriate measures and respond accordingly when an error occurs.

The development of AI has gained significant momentum in recent years. What does the future hold?

It is difficult to make a clear prediction – however, significant progress within a very short period of time is certainly conceivable, especially given the latest developments. At the beginning, we were only able to ask our artificial intelligence basic questions. Now, just six months later, it is able to search through extensive documents and analyse transcribed texts effectively. It is reasonable to assume that completely different capabilities will be achievable in another six months.

To what extent can AI alleviate the shortage of skilled workers?

The current shortage of skilled labour is a significant challenge for many of our customers. Small-scale companies that have implemented fewer automated processes are often affected to a greater extent compared to larger companies. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) can be of great benefit: it enables specific questions to be asked, for example regarding maintenance requirements, the optimal time for filter changes, and many other aspects. Of course, this information is also contained in the operating instructions. However, it is more time-saving to consult AI to obtain the desired information. In view of the demographic change, we are all confronted with the fundamental problem of the loss of expertise, which can only be mitigated to a limited extent at corporate level. I am convinced that many companies will strive to further digitise, automate and optimise their processes in order to proactively counteract the shortage of skilled workers. Skilled workers will continue to be needed, but with the help of AI, it will also be possible to entrust people with the operation of complex machines, without extensive machine knowledge.

What is Hans Weber doing in terms of sustainability?

One outstanding feature of our company is our very high vertical range of manufacture. This enables us to supply our machines with high-quality spare parts for decades. In addition, we develop our control systems in-house, enabling us to update them comprehensively. If a customer owns a 20-year-old machine and wants to collect data as part of digitalisation measures, we can offer them a tailor-made retrofit package for our modern WEBER OS5 control system. This package can be installed by the customer themselves or by our qualified technicians, allowing us to offer our customers the opportunity to reach a new level of technology. In addition to modernising control systems, we also support the retrofitting of innovative and efficient drive systems in three-phase technology. This provides our customers with the opportunity to even enhance older machines to be state of the art, thereby increasing their competitive edge in the long run.

Where does mechanical engineering currently stand in terms of digitalisation?

Digitalisation plays a central role in mechanical engineering. In future, it will be essential to have a digital presence. The implementation of digital solutions will increase efficiency in production and throughout the entire process, enabling production processes to be precisely controlled. The data collected can be used to track how long machines are in operation, and whether they are running smoothly. This data can be used to make well-founded decisions. For example, if a shift supervisor is responsible for several machines and notices that processes are not running optimally, they have to rely on information from the operators. However, if they have additional data, they can immediately see whether there are pressure fluctuations, profile breaks, or other irregularities. This enables them to make more reliable decisions to optimise processes. In addition, this digital transformation phase opens up new perspectives for us as a machine manufacturer for the development of innovative business models. Based on the data obtained, we are able to offer new services to our customers.

https://vdma.eu/

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Pioneering RPET Bottle Production Efficiency with Blowscan and Thermoscan at Drinktec

Pioneering RPET Bottle Production Efficiency with Blowscan and Thermoscan at Drinktec

BMT, a strategic technology partner for packaging, will exhibit state-of-the-art innovations BLOWSCAN and THERMOSCAN, proven to help manufacturers improve PET bottle performance, reduce waste and accelerate development cycles.

At drinktec 2025, BMT (Blow Moulding Technologies), will showcase its cutting-edge hardware innovations, alongside its materials characterisation and simulation services for the global packaging industry.

“At BMT we engineer the virtual world for real-world environmental impact. By making sustainability achievable, we’re helping brands and manufacturers optimise material use, reduce waste, and improve bottle performance,” comments Yannis Salomeia, BMT CEO & Co-founder.

“Join us at drinktec, (C6-531) where we’ll be showcasing our advanced lab tools, BLOWSCAN and THERMOSCAN, designed to unlock data-driven improvements in stretch blow moulding.

“Visitors can also explore our signature, the BMT Way, a collaborative workflow that combines data, hardware and technical expertise to streamline PET bottle production.

“Let’s shape a more sustainable future, one bottle at a time.”

BLOWSCAN – a lab-based, single cavity stretch blow moulding platform

As the packaging industry accelerates use of recycled content, understanding material behaviour during stretch blow moulding (SBM) is essential. rPET and other sustainable materials behave unpredictably, making it harder to ensure consistent bottle performance – driving demand for tools that help R&D teams de-risk production.

At drinktec, BMT directly addresses this challenge directly, showcasing its cutting-edge innovation, BLOWSCAN. This lab-based, single-cavity SBM platform delivers deep, data-driven insight into material performance, preform quality, and bottle development, without disrupting production.

Its modular design allows easy switching between free-blow and mould-blow modes. In free-blow mode, materials such as recycled PET (rPET) or bio-polymers are stretched without mould constraints, making it ideal for benchmarking material behaviour. Mould-blow mode supports rapid prototyping and validation of new geometries, enabling fast iteration during early-stage design and, in some cases, improving material validation rates by up to 20%.

BLOWSCAN uses a batch-fed preform system, no conveyors or hoppers and uses infrared to replicate industrial conditions. It captures key data, including preform temperature, inflation pressure, and blow geometry, enabling robust comparison across materials and machine setups.

“As brands push for lighter, more complex bottles, even small changes can create processing issues. BLOWSCAN helps de-risk early-stage development with quantifiable insights, while supporting site-specific process optimisation,” comments Josh Turner, Head of Materials Characterisation at BMT.

From resin producers and preform manufacturers to brand owners, BLOWSCAN accelerates innovation, improves decision-making, and builds confidence in scaling sustainable packaging.

THERMOSCAN – precision temperature insights for sustainable bottle production

Sustainability targets are accelerating the shift to rPET, but recycled materials behave less predictably than virgin PET (vPET), leading to thermal variability and inconsistent bottle performance. Traditional responses, like adjusting oven power, often rely on guesswork, resulting in inefficiencies and quality issues.

At drinktec, BMT will exhibit THERMOSCAN, a lab-based thermal imaging system that provides high-fidelity temperature data for preforms and bottles. By capturing the temperature profile of a successful vPET run, teams can set informed starting points for rPET and use THERMOSCAN to compare and fine-tune heated preforms. This ensures more consistent processing and performance.

THERMOSCAN offers a data-driven way to manage material changeovers, narrowing process windows and reducing reliance on guesswork. It accelerates setup time, improves quality, and supports more controlled, efficient operations.

Rooted in R&D excellence, trusted across the development-to-production spectrum, it helps benchmark thermal behaviour across materials and machines, cutting profiling time by up to 30%. Its value lies in its ability to provide a full temperature profile of the preform, enabling faster, site-specific decisions for sustainable bottle production.

The BMT Way: Measure, Digitise, Execute

Visitors to BMT’s stand at drinktec can also discover the BMT Way – a structured, collaborative workflow that combines hardware, data, and deep technical expertise to streamline bottle development from concept to production, helping teams accelerate innovation, reduce risk, and consistently deliver high-performing bottles.

“It begins by capturing how materials behave in the real world, using tools like THERMOSCAN and BLOWSCAN to gather high-resolution thermal and process data across every stage, from preform to bottle,” explains BMT’s Project Lead, Jude Cameron. “This data replaces assumptions with measurable, repeatable insights. The information is then translated into virtual models to simulate forming and performance, enabling faster, more informed design iteration. “

By digitising this data, teams can explore design, material, and process interactions virtually, validate ideas with confidence, and reduce reliance on trial-and-error. Finally, insights are fed back into production through site-specific process adjustments and quality frameworks, driving consistency, reducing risk, and accelerating time-to-market. Unlike fragmented tools or isolated lab work, the BMT Way closes the loop between design, validation, and execution, helping teams deliver high-performing bottles, faster.

“We’re looking forward to connecting with industry partners and sharing insights into the latest innovations in PET packaging, helping clients de-risk development, improve efficiency, and achieve their sustainability goals,” concludes David McKelvey, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Innovation.

www.bmt-ni.com

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FTCCI 2025 Award Honours Outstanding Innovation in Product Development

FTCCI 2025 Award Honours Outstanding Innovation in Product Development

Blend Colours Pvt. Ltd., a leading name in the masterbatch and additive manufacturing industry, has been conferred with the FTCCI Award 2025 for Excellence in Product Innovation – Large Companies category.

The FTCCI Excellence Awards are one of the most prestigious industrial accolades in Telangana, established to recognise businesses and institutions for their remarkable achievements and contributions across diverse fields.

Blend Colours Pvt. Ltd., a leading name in the masterbatch and additive manufacturing industry, has been conferred with the FTCCI Award 2025 for Excellence in Product Innovation – Large Companies category. The award, presented by The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), recognises outstanding contributions to innovation and industrial excellence.

The honour was bestowed at a prestigious ceremony held on 8th July 2025, at Taj Deccan, Hyderabad, in the presence of industry leaders, dignitaries and government officials. The award was presented by Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Hon’ble Governor of Telangana and selected by a distinguished jury comprising eminent retired IAS and IPS officers. Mr. Sharad Rathi, Director and Mr. Shailesh Lahoti, Director received the award on behalf of Blend Colours Pvt. Ltd.

Blend Colours was recognised for its innovative additive developed for the recycling industry – a breakthrough solution addressing one of the most pressing challenges in sustainable plastics. This product reflects the company’s commitment to R&D-led innovation and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Speaking about the company’s commitment to research and innovation, this award is more than for just a product – it is the acknowledgement of the thought leadership of Blend Colours; to quote, “Research is at the core of what we do. It’s not just about standing apart, it’s about solving real-world challenges and taking responsibility for a better tomorrow. We believe in identifying high-impact sectors and developing meaningful, application-driven solutions. Our R&D centre reflects our commitment to curiosity and innovation in plastics, and to delivering value-centric solutions that support and elevate our customers’ businesses.”

In its pursuit of future readiness, Blend Colours is also set to unveil a new brand identity at the upcoming K 2025 show, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards innovation and sustainability.

www.blendcolours.com

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Pioneering Plastics Recycling Technology Integration Presented at K 2025 to Drive Efficiency and Eco Friendly Production

Pioneering Plastics Recycling Technology Integration Presented at K 2025 to Drive Efficiency and Eco Friendly Production

Coperion, together with Herbold Meckesheim, will present their expertise in various plastics recycling applications at this year’s K show in Dusseldorf, Germany (8-15 October 2025). At Booth 9B34 in Hall 9, the focus will be on Herbold Meckesheim’s technologies for mechanical processing of plastics waste. On display will be the new T 150-300 Mechanical Dryer and the SMS 80-200 Granulator. In the Open Area, Pavilion FG/CE07, visitors can witness the seamless interplay of all Coperion recycling technologies. On view will be a Herbold Meckesheim Hydrocyclone Stage, the ZSK FilCo filtration compounder, the ZS-B MEGAfeed side feeder, a Coperion K-Tron K3-V200 vibratory feeder, an S60 single screw feeder and the MechaTron flat bottom feeder. Also on display will be a mobile deodorization unit for reliably removing unpleasant odors from recyclates. In addition to plastics recycling, Coperion specializes in plastic compounding technologies. These core competencies will be on display at Booth 14B19 in Hall 14.

Coperion K-Tron K3 vibratory feeders are equipped with a unique drive system and are suitable for high-accuracy feeding of recycling materials.

High performance using ZSK FilCo with ZS-B MEGAfeed

In the Open Area, Pavilion FG/CE07, Coperion will exhibit its new ZSK FilCo filtration compounder which enables recyclate filtering and subsequent compounding in one step. In comparison to two-step production lines, the ZSK FilCo handles the product very gently and provides higher quality at significantly reduced energy consumption when recycling post-consumer waste and other highly contaminated polymers. Waste plastics in the form of regrind, fiber pellets, film flakes or agglomerate with no pre-treatment are introduced into a ZSK twin screw extruder where they are melted, homogenized and devolatilized. The melt is then fed through a filter, removing any contaminants. In the subsequent compounding process additives are introduced into the melt prior to pelletizing the compound.

To fully exploit the ZSK FilCo’s high performance, raw materials must be supplied at a constant rate with no intake limits. While this can be accomplished either by pelletizing the waste plastic or regrind, or by using a compacting process, these are very energy-intensive processes and increase both capital and operating costs. In contrast, the ZS-B MEGAfeed side feeder, on display in Pavilion FG/CE07, reliably feeds recycled materials with a bulk density as low as 20 kg/m3 into the ZSK FilCo and other ZSK extruders. This allows for recycling and compounding of lightweight, high-volume fibers and flakes at high throughputs.

Seamless connection of bulk material handling and feeding technology Coperion is an expert in numerous feeding technologies that stand out with their high-accuracy and easy handling. Representative of this expertise, in Pavilion FG/CE07 Coperion will display a Coperion K-Tron K3-V200 vibratory feeder that excels in providing high-accuracy gravimetric feeding particularly for challenging materials, for example where smaller recyclates or flakes are being fed into the extrusion process. For light and fluffy, hard-to-feed materials such as polypropylene or PET plastic film, Coperion will showcase the MechaTron FB (flat bottom) feeder, a gravimetric feeder ideal for high-capacity recycling operations. Also on display is the Coperion K-Tron S60 single screw feeder, another feeder the provides very high reliability.

Coperion developed its ZRD rotary valve especially for plastics recycling processes. Together with the new drive technology, the new design of the gap between the rotor and housing ensures reliable discharge of flakes.

With the EcoFresh silo devolatilization solution recently installed in the Recycling Innovation Center, Coperion offers the ability to test devolatilization performance on actual customer products under near-production conditions before investing.

Entire lines from a single supplier

At K 2025, Coperion will demonstrate how its various technologies work together through an all- encompassing 3D simulation. Visitors will gain insights into the operation of a complete system as well as the function of each individual component. All of Coperion’s components and technologies are characterized by high throughput, excellent end-product quality, and exceptional efficiency. For example, Coperion recently successfully commissioned chemical plastics recycling lines at two customer facilities, both capable of processing up to 6,000 kg/h.

Even when recycling PET, processors profit from Coperion’s expertise in engineering complete systems, achieving very good end product quality, and providing high throughputs. Pre-drying the PET flakes is not necessary thanks to the effective degassing in the Coperion process. A few weeks ago, Coperion and Herbold Meckesheim installed the first stage of a bottle-to-bottle recycling plant at Magpet Polymer Pvt Ltd in India. The successful startup of the granulators and washing line marks an important step toward launching the full plant, which is designed to process up to 5,500 kg/h.

Likewise, the benefit of such end-to-end line expertise is evident in the effective removal of unwanted odors. All along the entire recycling process, Coperion offers various solutions for reliably deodorizing post-consumer plastics. Odor removal in mechanical processing, devolatilization in the twin screw extruder, and Coperion’s EcoFresh Silo devolatilization solutions are available to observe. The interplay of these technologies reliably ensures the desired product quality. Coperion recently installed the EcoFresh silo devolatilization at its Recycling Innovation Center. There, customers can thoroughly test various odor removal technologies using actual products under near-production conditions before making an investment. This allows them to ensure that the final process meets all quality requirements.

https://www.coperion.com/

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