New product developments from Agr International Inc. can streamline laboratory measurement operations, manage the quality of bottles with high percentages of recycled PET, and produce ultra-light bottles.
Founded in 1936, the Butler, Pa.-based company offers a complete line of products for measuring and testing plastic containers.
The focal point of Agr's booth at K 2019 was an all-new system that the company says provides operators with the ability to perform multiple measurements on a wide range of plastic containers and preforms with unmatched accuracy, repeatability and operational throughput.
The all-in-one system combines optical gauging and thickness measurement technology with automation. Agr says the system simplifies container measurement operations while maximizing testing throughput.
Additional features include advanced job setup tools and a large screen image display that can expand images for close analysis, data capture and Industry 4.0 communications.
Agr also showed its latest Pilot Vision+ system for blow molders to manage the quality of bottles, particularly bottles with a high percentage of recycled PET. The system simultaneously manages up to six cameras to detect defects in multiple locations within high-speed reheat stretch blow molding machines.
Other features of the system include color preform cameras for managing color variations, simple configuration and operation, and a large-screen user interface.
When combined with Agr's Process Pilot products, Pilot Vision+ can also detect random-occurring defects and manage the process to maintain precise material distribution, even with the difficult-to-process bottle designs.
The Process Pilot also was upgraded for thin-wall measurement for producing ultra-light bottles. It offers added precision and machine controls to ensure consistent quality on the production line. The system continuously measures every bottle and manages the blow molder to maintain optimal material distribution.
The system also can be used to handle processing variables related to preforms and materials, including increased levels of recycled PET. The variables compromise the productivity of manufacturing and filling lines.