How used and refurbished 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 blower conversion process, the advantages it brought to the company, and the technical details that guarantee its reliability and efficiency.
Converting a KRONES blower from water to oil processing
Les Huileries du Souss Belhassan (HSB) is a major 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.
Agadir Plant
The Agadir plant, located in the Anza area, plays a crucial role in HSB’s production. Key processes carried out here include:
- Crushing and refining: the plant is equipped with modern crushing and refining equipment, ensuring high-quality products.
- Packing: HSB has implemented innovative packaging technologies, including the introduction of PET plastic, making it a pioneer in the sector16.
- Commitment to sustainability: the company is committed to following sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact and ensure healthy nutrition for future generations.
HSB not only operates nationally but exports its products to over 20 countries worldwide, consolidating its position as a leader in the oil market in Morocco.
The KRONES Contiform 316 Blower
In 2019, BBM acquired a 2010 KRONES Contiform 316 blower from the Austrian company Waldquelle, specializing in water bottling. This transaction followed a production overhaul at Waldquelle, leading to the decommissioning of a PET bottling line. After a thorough evaluation, BBM Service purchased the blower as part of its reconditioning activities, aimed at renewing and reusing used machinery.
Looking for a blower for a new oil production line in their Agadir plant, HSB contacted BBM Packaging. After carefully analyzing the available options, BBM selected the KRONES Contiform 316 blower for HSB, which required only a few modifications to meet the company’s specific needs.
The conversion of the Krones blower: modifications and customizations
During a visit to our Lenna showroom, the client 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 team’s expertise, we customized the bottle necks according to the client’s specifications, carrying out a thread conversion from Alaska to PCO 29/21. Additionally, the machine was completely overhauled using BBM spare parts, ensuring optimal performance and high reliability.
BBM conducted an audit at HSB to prepare the necessary layout for the machine’s installation. Six months after the order, we successfully completed the installation and started up the machine, achieving an operating speed of 24,000 bottles per hour.
We also handled the machine’s packaging for sea and truck transport. The installation was successfully completed by two technicians over a period of 15 days.
The benefits of the BBM solution
The purchase of the refurbished KRONES Contiform 316 blower provided HSB with numerous advantages:
- Quick format changes. The machine allows for quick and simple format changes, a crucial element for HSB, which operates a multi-format line and needs to switch from one format to another quickly.
- Environmental sustainability. Purchasing used machinery helps reduce resource consumption and the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new equipment. This approach is increasingly appreciated by companies like HSB, which seek sustainable solutions.
- Economic savings. Buying used machinery allows customers to acquire high-quality equipment at a lower cost compared to new models. This enables them to invest in other strategic areas without compromising production quality.
- High quality standards. Used and refurbished blowers by BBM Service undergo strict quality controls to ensure they meet industry standards. The blower sold to HSB benefited from the quality check in BBM Service’s metrology room.
- Fast delivery. After the thread conversion, completed in a few weeks, the blower was ready for use, requiring less time for installation compared to new models and thus reducing production downtime.
- 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 the efficiency of their line and contributed to achieving their business goals in terms of quality, innovation, and sustainability. This story represents a concrete example of the need to adapt to specific customer requirements, offering customized solutions and continuous technical support in the blow molding machine sector.
