RDK and RDM-K, two of Illig’s best rod-fed thermoforming lines, will be showcased under production conditions. RDK is an automatic pressure forming machine for combined forming-punching operation and is currently in use for the production of goods from hinged packs and menu trays through to closing lids. RDM-K is mainly employed for thermoforming of cups in any shape and size using multi-cavity equipment.

The largest version of RDK series, the RDK 90, will also be demonstrated under production. Its ability of processing up to 900 mm of material width  and 700 mm index length combined with its capacity to process APET on a 18-up tool at a speed 55 cycles per minute, represents one of the highest achievement of Illig.

Alternatively, yogurt cup are produced by RDM 70K, an automatic forming machine using a 27- up tool and also APET material. In the last stage of the production a specific equipment ensures reliable handling a large numbers of product, up to 50 000 trays and almost 70 000 yogurt cup. In addition RDM-K’s stacking device is equipped with a brand new turning head system which can be rotated by 180 degrees.

One of the most effective ways of achieving high cycle speed in thermoformers is to employ a significant use of servo motor drives for all motion sequencing. Servo motor drives work maximising energy saving, faster and more precisely, and because of their high positioning and repetition accuracy allow saving process time.

Tools are the crucial aspect of the RDM-K thermoforming line. They operate with up to 75% less forming air volume per cavity allowing an increase in cycle speed of nearly 30% and sometimes even higher. Based on this, weigh reduction and therefore material saving up to 10% can be reached, without loss of quality product, dimensional accuracy or cup stability.
 

The roll-fed thermoformers RDM 70K, originally developed for large-size RDK 90, could be also equipped with “ILLIG Thermoline Control” concept. All additional devices and lines required for the completion of a production line, from material roll stand through to additional cooling devices, could now be managed and operate via the termoformer’s control.

Another important aspect that Illig will stress at K fair trade, regards the accomplishments achieved in terms of energy efficiency in the use of servo motor drives. They not only help increasing productivity but are aimed specifically for reducing energy consumption.

The available energy generated is used for other drives or other loads such as, among the others, the infrared heater.