“Sidel has been leading the way in blow molding technology for over 45 years. At drinktec, we are now unveiling the world’s first industrialized laser solution, a true game-changer. Our pioneering commercial PET blow molder revolutionized packaging in 1980. Today, the EvoBLOW Laser will once again revolutionize the industry, redefining line throughput and creating new possibilities for weight reduction.” Pietro Cassani, President & CEO of Sidel.
From halogen to laser: a sectoral shift
After decades of halogen technology without a viable alternative, the industry recognizes the limitations of this heating and overcomes them with the new laser solution, in a context of increased pressure on costs, sustainable development and operational agility.
Lighten the load without sacrificing strength
The precision of the laser allows for containers that are both lighter and stronger. While halogen solutions heat large areas, the EvoBLOW Laser uses up to 36 heating lines (compared to eight zones on a comparable solution), ensuring unparalleled thickness control across the entire container.
This expertise allows for weight reduction, even in premium bottles, thanks to the creation of "powerful rings" invisible to the consumer, replacing traditional "geometric fluting," thus offering greater design freedom. It also extends weight reduction to previously inaccessible areas, such as under the neck.
Furthermore, the machine facilitates the blowing of a wider range of formats and shapes from the same preform, which simplifies logistics.
First-time quality, regardless of conditions
Halogen solutions are sensitive to the environment and require frequent and complex adjustments. In contrast, laser technology is unaffected by its environment: consistent, high quality is achieved with unprecedented ease, thanks to a single process adjustment per heating line (intensity). Every preform, from the first to the last, receives the precise thermal profile required, regardless of ambient temperature variations.
Line efficiency and operational availability
The EvoBLOW Laser offers a cold start and exceptional robustness: the laser furnace is always ready, with no warm-up/cool-down time and no "standby " to keep it warm, eliminating downtime with each shutdown/restart. Additionally, live speed modulation allows the blower to automatically and temporarily adjust its speed in real time according to line conditions.
Ease of use, safety and maintenance
Knowing that the machine restarts instantly while maintaining consistent quality reduces the stress associated with unplanned downtime. The cold oven technology allows for quick access without waiting and without the risk of burns. Adjustments are made via an intuitive touchscreen interface, and maintenance is simplified by the absence of fans and filters, as well as the long lifespan of the laser diodes.
rPET and environmental benefits
The solution promotes the increased integration of rPET, a material less sensitive to variations in material composition ; when adjustments are needed, they are made immediately. Faster heating and a higher preform temperature allow for optimal elongation. Compared to conventional solutions, the technology reduces preform waste and benefits from a smaller oven.
Field validation at Refresco
Backed by a strong partnership, the technology has undergone field testing at Refresco , with remarkable results . As Coert Michielsen , Supply Chain Director at Refresco, points out : “After 45 years of halogen technology, we are now entering a new era. I am convinced that laser furnace technology will become the new standard.”
