Key features in focus: SpeedGuard™ & ProSpacing™
At K 2025, Kiefel presented the SPEEDFORMER KTR 6.2 Speed live – a next-generation thermoforming machine that, among other things, produces high-quality cups from recycled PET. Two patent-pending features exemplify Kiefel’s approach to performance – right down to the smallest detail:
SpeedGuard™ film guide automates the transfer of the remaining film after punching, safely, efficiently and without manual intervention. The feature adapts flexibly to various film widths and enhances both operating convenience and process safety.
ProSpacing™ system optimizes the handover of formed products to downstream automation, regardless of product geometry. As machine speeds increase, stacking and transfer become critical. This system steps in early: products such as cups are spaced with precision during ejection, fully prepared for the next processing step. The result: maximum line speed with consistent process stability.
“Every detail is driven by one clear goal: Driving your Performance“: Dr. Bernd Stein, Vice President – Engineering.
This also includes the smart use of machine data: At the running SPEEDFORMER KTR 6.2, Kiefel demonstrates how production and performance data can be structured and visualized using the OPC UA interface. Customers can choose from preconfigured data packages – such as for production monitoring – to get exactly the information they need for their processes.
Born again. In better shape, material performance in practice
Kiefel and partner Coexpan showed just how capable recycled materials can be. Three different PET films were tested ahead of the show – with consistent processing, nearly uniform cup quality, and excellent line performance across all material variants. The results can be viewed at the booth, a clear example of how recycled materials are brought back to life in better shape with Kiefel technology.
Company Perstorp adds another value to market-ready packaging: the Akestra™ rPET Hotfill Cup combines recycled PET with the innovative copolyester Akestra™ to achieve heat resistance up to 95 °C. Tests on Kiefel equipment confirm: With the right process, recycled content can be shaped into high-quality, extra thin-walled packaging – perfectly aligned with Born Again. In Better Shape.
Rethinking Together, Digital Partnerships in Action
Innovation at Kiefel extends well beyond the machine itself. At the Siemens AG booth visitors had the possibility to explore the digital twin of the SPEEDFORMER KTR 6.2 Speed.
A PET tray with a digital product passport – created with R-Cycle – showcases smart traceability. An interactive showcase at the booth will also demonstrate how additional processing steps such as adhesive coating and pad insertion can be integrated directly into Kiefel machines using solutions from Fin Diemme – functionally, reliably, and in a manner compatible with recycling.
Smart service in action
Kiefel is offering an exclusive preview of the next-generation Kiefel Portal at K 2025. With interactive 3D spare parts catalogs and a more intuitive user interface, future service and parts processes will be easier than ever.
