KSB 3R Compact and 4R Compact stretch blow-moulding machines from Kosme

Less is more – the motto for the low output range

The portfolio of Krones’ subsidiary Kosme has up till now already included four rotary stretch blow-moulding machines covering different output categories. Our colleagues are now expanding it to include two new compact-size systems. Wilhelm Hofstätter, one of Kosme Austria’s experts, will tell you more about that – here on the blog but also, of course, in person on Krones’ stand at the BrauBeviale.

For whom are the new models KSB 3R Compact and 4R Compact an interesting option?

Both rotary machines are primarily an attractive proposition for beverage producers operating in the low output range. This is because their footprint has been minimised, and they still offer a high degree of flexibility. They produce a variety of container sizes ranging from 0.15 to 3.0 litres, with neck finish diameters of up to 38 millimetres. Another appealing plus in terms of flexibility is the fact that all Kosme rotary machines can be integrated into the production line either as a stand-alone machine, or as part of a block comprising a filler and/or labeller.

Kosme’s portfolio already included a 4R model – so what’s new here?

You’re right! A rotary machine with four cavities, that’s nothing new. But these revamped models are more economical in every respect: their footprint is smaller, media and energy consumption is comparable, or even a bit lower. What’s particularly impressive, though, is the space savings achieved: whereas the new KSB 4R Compact can be accommodated on a mere 35 square metres, the previous KSB 4R would require around 59 square metres. It’s by virtue of all these advantages that the 4R Compact will in the medium term be replacing the KSB 4R from the standard series.

The three-cavity system, by contrast, is an entirely new addition to our portfolio – and scores highly with the same advantages as those offered by the four-cavity model.

Both machines owe their lower energy consumption not least to the Air Wizard Plus compressed-air recovery system – thus saving up to 35 per cent air. What’s more, an infrared linear oven assures a lower consumption of heating energy. So you see, we’re harnessing the savings potentials offered by state-of-the-art technologies at various points in the machine.

Quite specifically, taking the new KSB 3R Compact as an example: what exactly is the advantage that a rotary machine has over a linear model?

In short: the performance. In more detail: the higher output per station – which can be up to 400 BhC.  To give you a specific example for the figures involved: at a beverage company producing 1.0-litre containers, the KSB 3R Compact processes 6,600 of these per hour, i.e. 2,200 per station. By way of comparison: if a corresponding linear machine were to be used, a four-cavity system would have to be chosen in order to achieve the same output. So for the client opting for a rotary model, this means the system features one blow-moulding station less, which is of course reflected in even further reduced energy and air consumption.

In addition, it should be noted that the reduced volume of dead space means that less compressed air is required – and that a rotary machine can be directly block-synchronised with a filler.

What can anyone visiting the Brau Beviale expect to see?

We shall be showcasing the first machine of this kind at the BrauBeviale in Hall 7A: the 3R Compact version. I myself will be on the stand there and am looking forward to welcoming any interested visitors.