Preform characterisation

Comprehensive analysis of the full-field deformation behaviour during the SBM process - subject to preform design, material selection and process set-up.

Complete automation

Robotic arm combined with universal preform holder allows for fully-automated testing of the characterisation process.

Controlled heating

Easily programmable and fully automated, heating by means of an oil bath permits effortless investigation into varying temperature profiles.

Custom loading

A wide range of applied loading during free-blow allows for systematic investigation into the influence of process parameters on the final bottle shape.

Optical strain measurement

Using digital image correlation, transient full-field strain maps capture the deformation behaviour along the preform length.

Data output

Principal stress-strain data is mapped along the entire preform edge, facilitating in-depth analysis into local hoop and axial stresses as a function of process set-up.

Specification

Weight: ~ 500 kg

Variable flow control and preform timing