Siapi srl, the Italian maker of linear stretch blow molding machines, showed its improved technology at NPE2012.

Siapi showed the IndexMatic, its first flexible neck orientation system that comes in three different configurations, including a new one with preferential heating, for blow molding custom bottles with an oblong or oval body. These preforms must be consistently and repeatedly positioned in the mold with the same orientation, using orienting geometry on the preform support ring. The easily accessible system enables a fast changeover between various neck-finish formats.

Because of a preform synchronization and transport system, Siapi said the neck orientation device has no impact on cycle time or loss of output.

Siapi also makes a neck orientation system without preferential heating and a bottle-exit orientation system.

Siapi’s recent developments have been in large containers, including the patented HandleMatic system that automatically inserts a handle into the mold, then blows a container. The company from San Vendemiano, Italy, also has converted five-gallon water-cooler bottlers from polycarbonate to PET.

Siapi also has developed machines to mold large, stackable PET containers, converted from high density polyethylene.

Siapi also improved its machine changeover process by reducing the type and quantity of change parts and by using tool-less quick-release systems and mold changeover carts.

Siapi America Inc. is in Norcross, Ga.

Tel. 678-892-7200, fax 678-892-7201, email d.batten@siapiamerica.com.