Krones will be showcasing the new LinaFlex eSync pasteuriser at Drinktec 2025 in Munich. This new offering from Krones has some key innovations which helps to provide additional value to the user.
Concepts such as a dynamic line buffer, use of single-lane container transport and dynamic speed control deliver added benefits in terms of efficiency and energy reduction all with a significantly reduced footprint.
A classic can line is generally individual machines (filler, pasteuriser, packer, and more) interconnected by wide bulk conveyors. These bulk conveyors form the basis of the entire line with containers being spaced out as they travel along the belt with buffering sections built in throughout the line where needed. While this solution works well in principle, it requires large amounts of space to accommodate the wide conveyors along with additional complexities.
The new line layout with the LinaFlex eSync pasteuriser provides a different picture. Gone are the massive conveyors as cans now run quickly along a narrow single lane conveyor on a comparatively short bend from the filler to the pasteuriser and from there to the packer. This pasteuriser allows for belts to be filled without the need of buffers throughout the wet part of the line.
This is achieved by incorporating the entire wet end buffering inside the tunnel pasteuriser through a clever redesign. On each deck, a newly developed infeed system distributes the high-speed cans in single file into the wide slow running pasteuriser belt. Once pasteurisation is complete, the cans are then discharged again on to fast moving conveyors.
To help manage any buffering required, a variable speed conveyor is directly connected to the pasteurisers belt. This conveyor is run faster then the pasteuriser which creates the additional free space if needed. By incorporating this dynamic line buffer, the pasteuriser can be matched to the output of other machines on the line. This integrated speed control helps provide energy efficient adjustment of the lines speed delivering value to the user.
Taking an entirely fresh approach to energy-efficiency: thermal and electrical optimisation
Sustainability was overriding goal when developing the new LinaFlex eSync. Therefore, numerous energy-saving functions that have proved beneficial were made available as optional extras. One key element is heat recovery. By selectively circulating water between heat-up and cooling zones, a large amount of energy can be recovered. Another available option that can help provide energy saving benefits is a separate cooling module. This module incorporates an integrated heat pump which takes heat released in this process and directs it to either the pasteurising zones or into a plant wide heating grid.
Along with these optional extras, the new LinaFlex eSync has some standard features designed to reduce energy consumption. Pasteurising sections come installed with insulation which helps reduce heat loss which saved energy. Low-pressure-optimised spraying nozzles and small water tanks help to reduce total energy demand. All this coupled with the dynamic speed control which enables the machine to be run energy-efficiently even at partial loadhelps to deliver genuine energy savings to the user.
As energy usage and space become more of a concern for beverage produces, many are looking for innovative new technologies to address these concerns. The new LinaFlex eSync from Krones is a unique solution that can deliver many benefits for a user. Through delivering a reduced line footprint and the ability to significantly reduce energy consumption, this new pasteuriser provides benefits well beyond the standard scope of a conventional machine.
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