This container, along with the line type, was chosen for a variety of reasons. primarily because demand for on-the-go products has recently increased; Adelholzener’s non-returnable PET container sales climbed by 12% in 2023.
On the other hand, the realisation of the one-way PET system meant that the existing capacities at the plant could be ideally utilised. “We already took the limited capacities at the plant into account when we installed the first one-way system in 2006,” says Erwin Hächl, Head of Central Project Management at Adelholzener Alpenquellen. “Thanks to our foresighted planning, we can now optimally utilise the available space in the plant and install another line from Krones.”
Aseptics and performance in harmony
The new Krones line with an output of 36,000 bottles per hour is intended to increase the bottling capacities for spritzers and water. Adelholzener has deliberately opted for a Contipure Bloc P, an ultra-hygienic block specially designed for sensitive products. This first sterilises the preforms before they are blown into bottles and then aseptically filled and finally sealed. The performance version, which is represented by the “P”, uses hot caustic solution for machine surface disinfection and safely sterilises the product paths with steam. This process guarantees microbiologically safe filling with the fastest cleaning and sterilisation times.
A Contiroll applies wrap-around labels to the sealed containers, which are then packed into shrink packs or trays by two Variopac Pro machines. Palletising is performed by a Modulpal Pro.
In addition to the line, Krones is also supplying the appropriate process technology equipment with a Unipure product filtration system and a VarioAsept J flash pasteuriser. The first products are scheduled to roll off the line in summer 2025, with acceptance planned for autumn.
