Extrusion International 5-2016

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Extrusion International 5/2016 46
KraussMaffei Berstorff: QuickSwitch dimension
change technology now in sizes up to 500 mm
The QuickSwitch calibration basket, the core component of the
KraussMaffei Berstorff system for automatic dimension change
K raussMaffei Berstorff is presenting the maximum version of
its technologically advanced QuickSwitch technology for ef-
ficiently changing dimensions for the 280 - 500 mm diameter
range. The system, which has proven its value in everyday pro-
duction for many years, is the company's flagship product for
applications requiring high overall equipment efficiency (OEE),
particularly with regard to the availability of a production sys-
tem. In this respect, with OEE Plus KraussMaffei Berstorff sup-
plies its customers with premium quality solutions.
Cost-effective production, particularly for large pipe diameters
"Our automatic quick change system is of particular interest for
large pipe diameters, as in this application, the quantity of waste
is limited to a tapered piece of approximately three to six me-
ters," explains Peter Roos, President of the Extrusion Technol-
ogy Segment and of the KraussMaffei Berstorff brand. Because
in pipe production, the material costs account for up 70 per-
cent, processors' desire to produce as little scrap as possible is
first and foremost. "Our QuickSwitch system, which has been
successful for over ten years and is unmatched in its technology,
has been expanded by adding the model for the 280 – 500 mm
diameter range. This expansion is our response to the require-
ments of the market," says Roos. A critical role in conserving
the raw material is also played by the pipe wall thickness. Quick-
Switch technology plays a critical role in this regard. "Every
processor wants to produce as little excess pipe weight as pos-
sible, because this weight has negative effects on its balance
sheet," Roos explains. In addition, all process parameters can be
configured with precision and stored using the intelligent all-in-
one system control. Any number of data records can be stored
and activated using the C6 control system.
Greater flexibility and maximum availability
of the production system
"In today's highly competitive market environment, flexibility is
the key to success," Roos says. "One of the absolutely out-
standing features of our QuickSwitch system is being able to fill
small order lots with fast turnaround times. The pipe dimension
changes within a few minutes at the touch of a button. Quick-
Switch enables the producer to respond at any time and accept
orders with small quantities or special tubes with individualized
dimensions.
Just-in-time production reduces inventory costs to a minimum.
The fast changeover time has an extremely positive effect on
availability. Processors have to figure in multiple hours for the
changeover of a standard system, depending on the dimension.
By contrast, this process takes only about tenmminutes with
QuickSwitch. The system is also very low-maintenance, increas-
ing service life while simultaneously reducing personnel costs.
Satisfied customers – in markets defined by high-tech
"Companies who decide in favor of our QuickSwitch solution
keep coming back to us," Roos confirms. "This is proven by our
regular customers' full order books." Since its market launch,
the system has done particularly well in high-tech markets such
as Germany, Austria, the Benelux countries and Italy. However,
a large number of systems are also up and running in Eastern Eu-
rope and the Near and Middle East. The technology enables all
commonly used polyolefins such as PE-HD and PE-MD to be
processed for these diameter ranges: 25-63 mm; (optional: 63-
140 mm); 75-160 mm; 160-250 mm; 250-450 mm; 280-500
mm; (in the wall thickness range of 11-33 SDR class).
Hall 15,
Booth B27/C24/C27/D24