Bolton, Ontario — Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd. developed preform molding technology for mid-volume PET processors planning to introduce multiple new applications into the market.
Called NexPET, Husky says the system was designed for both established and emerging producers to be more competitive about responding to evolving consumer preferences.
The company says NexPET can run up to a 48-cavity mold and produce 5,000 to 20,000 parts an hour with Six-Sigma part quality.
For established producers, the system provides an agile, reliable solution for niche brands or smaller run SKUs. For emerging producers, it is a fast, cost-effective and low-risk path into markets, according to Robert Domodossola, Husky's president of rigid packaging.
"Consumers are increasingly demanding more personalized products catered to their unique lifestyles and tastes. The global climate created by COVID-19 has amplified this trend, forcing many producers to rapidly adapt operations to scale up new applications like hand sanitizer, disinfectant and other health, personal care or cleaning related products," Domodossola said in a news release.
Features that enable producers to be more productive and adaptable include choice of screw diameters to maximize output flexibility; a Reflex brand PET clamp to distribute the right amount of force and maximize mold life; and a rotating end-of-arm tool with up to three cooling positions to ensure preforms are ejected at ideal temperatures.
The system also automatically adjusts oil pressure to suit specific applications while conserving energy.
In addition, NexPET can run recycled PET pellets and varying quantity of flakes, supporting sustainability initiatives.
Husky officials considered feedback from customers about the current market landscape and saw the need for a more flexible, adaptable PET preform molding solution, Domodossola also said.
Those conversations will continue, he added, "to gain an even better understanding of what solutions they need to remain successful and competitive, even during these unprecedented times."