Extrusion International 6-2017

28 Extrusion International 6/2017 Available now! SML recently unveiled an innovative demonstration line for the production of PET sheet in a thickness range of up to 2mm The importance of PET as a raw material for countless thermoforming applications is clearly on the rise. Moreover, the market is not only demanding more environmentally acceptablerawmaterials,whichshould offer a high degree of recyclability (as PET does), but also thicker PET sheets. These are to be characterised by high transparency and stiffness, and thereby serve the trend towards even larger clear cups and trays for (take- away) food packaging. Producing thick PET sheet with excellent optical proper- ties is a very demanding process. Special attention needs to be paid to the quality of the rawmaterial itself, rawma- terial drying and melt treatment. Accordingly, the design of the entire line and the selected process parameters can improve the properties of thick PET sheet significantly. Main technical data: Two extruders for 3-layer A/B/A structures Thickness range: 0,2 – 2mm Max. output: up to 1,300 kg/h Max. sheet width: up to 1,100 – 1,200mm The slanted, up stack roll stack mounted on the demon- stration line is perfectly suited to thick PET sheet produc- tion requirements. Furthermore, on the basis of its vast experience, SML is able to offer advice on optimum pro- cess parameters for individual production needs. Reductions in packaging material weight represent an- other market trend. Therefore, the PET sheet demonstra- tion line is also equipped with a CO 2 gas injection system to produce physically foamed PET sheet as an alternative and thereby widen the product portfolio of companies in the thermoforming business. Furthermore, the demonstration line features an IR-lami- nation system for the production of PET/PE laminates. A choice of possible processes: All in all, the utmost process flexibility for different appli- cations is guaranteed and production switches between thick, foamed, or laminated PET/PE sheet can be complet- ed within minimum change-over times. Ready for trials The new state-of-the-art sheet line has been installed at SML’s headquarters in Lenzing, Austria and is now avail- able to customers for inspection and trials. SML Maschinengesellschaft mbH www.sml.at PRODUCTION OF PET SHEET A choice of possible processes: Your advantages: Rigid PET sheet Large-sized, clear cups and trays Resource efficiency through reduced weight and raw material consumption Recyclable PET sheet in thicknesses of up to 2mm With or without a foamed centre layer Laminated with PE film Rigid PP, PS sheet With or without a foamed centre layer