From water to oil: the conversion of a KRONES blow molding machine

The Conversion of a Krones Blower for Oil Bottling

How used and overhauled machines can be adapted to new production needs, contributing to sustainability and cost optimization. An excellent example of innovation in the agri-food sector
We will explore the story of the KRONES Contiform 316 blower, recently converted for oil bottling at Les Huileries du Souss Belhassan (HSB) in Morocco. We will analyze the machine conversion process, the benefits it brought to the company, and the technical details that ensure its reliability and efficiency.

The Story of Les Huileries du Souss Belhassan

Les Huileries du Souss Belhassan (HSB) is a leading Moroccan company in the agri-food sector, founded in 1948. Its main headquarters is located in Agadir, a coastal city known for its agricultural and industrial production. HSB specializes in the production of vegetable oils, margarines, and various food products, using both modern technologies and traditional methods.

The KRONES Contiform 316 Blower

In 2019, BBM acquired a 2010 KRONES Contiform 316 blower from the Austrian company Waldquelle, specialized in water bottling. This operation followed a production upgrade at Waldquelle, which led to the decommissioning of a PET bottling line. After a thorough evaluation, the blower was purchased by BBM Service as part of its reconditioning activities, aimed at renewing and reusing used machinery.
Looking for a blow molder for a new oil production line at their Agadir plant, HSB contacted BBM Packaging. After carefully analyzing the available options, BBM selected the KRONES Contiform 316 blower for HSB, which only required a few modifications to meet the company’s specific needs.

The Blower Conversion: Modifications and Customizations

During a visit to our Lenna showroom, the customer immediately confirmed their decision to proceed with the purchase. We then began preparing the machine, including the requested options. Originally designed for water bottling, the machine was converted to handle oil bottling in two formats: 1000 ml and 500 ml.
Thanks to the support of our technical office and the expertise of our team, we customized the bottle neck according to the customer’s specifications, converting it from an Alaska thread to a PCO 29/21. In addition, the machine was completely overhauled using BBM compatible spare parts, thus ensuring optimal performance and high reliability.

BBM conducted an audit at HSB to prepare the layout required for the machine installation. Six months after the order, we successfully completed the installation and started up the machine, reaching an operating speed of 24,000 bottles per hour.

We also handled the packaging of the machine for sea and truck transport. The installation was successfully completed by two technicians over a 15-day period.

The Benefits of the BBM Solution

Purchasing the overhauled KRONES Contiform 316 blower offered numerous benefits to HSB:

1. Quick format changes. The machine allows quick and easy format changes—a crucial element for HSB, which manages a multi-format line and needs to switch formats rapidly.
2. Environmental sustainability. Purchasing used machinery helps reduce resource consumption and the environmental impact associated with the production of new equipment. This approach is increasingly appreciated by companies like HSB seeking sustainable solutions.
3. Cost savings. Buying used machinery allows customers to obtain high-quality equipment at a lower cost compared to new models. This enables them to invest in other strategic areas without compromising production quality.
4. High quality standards. Used and overhauled blowers from BBM Service undergo rigorous quality checks to ensure they meet industry standards. The blower sold to HSB benefited from BBM Service’s metrology room quality check.
5. Fast delivery. After the thread conversion, completed in just a few weeks, the blower was ready for use, requiring less time for installation than new models and thus reducing production downtime.
6. After-sales support. BBM offers comprehensive after-sales service for its used machines, including technical assistance and periodic maintenance. This ensures that customers can keep their equipment in optimal condition over the long term.

Thanks to our expertise, HSB implemented an innovative bottling solution that perfectly meets their production needs. The KRONES Contiform 316 blower improved their line efficiency and contributed to achieving their goals in terms of quality, innovation, and sustainability. This story is a concrete example of the need to adapt to customers’ specific requirements by offering customized solutions and continuous technical support in the blow molding machinery sector.

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