Faster, more efficient and more reliable PET preform moulding

The new XForm GEN4 XP system by Sipa incorporates the latest generation of preform injection moulding technology to deliver the lowest conversion cost alongside unmatched speed, flexibility, and ease of use.

New technology incorporated into 250, 350 and 500-tonne system, capable of running with moulds holding up to 96, 128 and 180 cavities respectively, has been designed to handle the most demanding applications. It delivers leading short cycle times in the industry; it offers industry-leading energy efficiency, and it has the lowest maintenance cost in the sector. As with all other XForms, the XForm GEN4 XP accepts virtually all legacy tooling produced by any major mould maker.

The XForm GEN4 XP provides a totally new operator experience, delivered through an HMI with a large 21.5-inch touch screen with high-definition graphics, swipe functions just like a smartphone, a multi-function control knob for one-handed operation, and fast response times unaffected by processor load. The HMI incorporates an advanced automatic process set-up and an in-depth part quality troubleshooting tutorial, which together will help users improve machine up-time, lower scrap rates, and depend less on highly skilled machine operators.

Powered by the latest servo-driven hydraulic pumps, the XForm GEN4 XP has a record-low lock-to-lock time, paired with an increased injection rate. Total energy efficiency has been increased by a similar amount: in a typical set-up with the machine set-up to full screw utilization and PET with an IV of 0.80, the XForm GEN4 XP consumes just 0.195 kW of energy for every kg of material processed. One of the reasons for the improvements in dry cycle time and energy efficiency is the introduction of a kinetic energy recovery system acting on the toggle drive.

Sipa’s XForm platform has already gained a reputation for its ease of maintenance, but on the GEN4 XP, it is easier than ever, Sipa says. That’s because, for example, the company has modified the accumulator area layout so that the accumulators are now mounted on a pull-out rack inside the machine frame. In addition, the oil tank has been redesigned so that it does not need to be emptied in case of maintenance (it can also be used at altitudes of up to 3,000 m without any modifications).