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A new system for fast, noncontact, nondestructive measuring of the thickness of individual layers in barrier bottles and preforms is just now being introduced commercially by TeTechS, Waterloo, Ont. Its PlasThick Multi-Layer Thickness Measurement System reportedly can measure up to 10 layers ranging in thickness from 0.01 to 5 mm in a matter of seconds. It can measure both opaque and translucent containers at speeds of up to five measurement points per second. Thickness-measurement accuracy is said to be to 0.01 mm. The system uses infrared light in the terahertz (10 12 Hz) frequency range (1 to 100 micron wavelength), which is located on the electromag- netic spectrum between infrared and millimeter microwave radiation. One of the special properties of this energy band is that it can "see through" opaque and colored materials. The instrument emits a pulse of radiation and measures the "time of flight" for reflections from the interfaces between polymer layers, as well as the inner and outer surfaces of the container. The user interface is a touch- screen panel with Windows PC software. 519-584-9998 • tetechs.com BLOW MOLDING THERMOFORMING Multi-Layer Thickness Gauge For Barrier Bottles MORE THAN JUST STORAGE! Manage your inventory Become better organized Protect your investment Create a safer working environment Our mold management systems are designed to save you space, time & money. GO FROM THIS TO THIS! Visit our website or give us a call to learn more about how we can help you with your die or mold management needs. 716.822.2804 www.Rapistak.com Next-Generation Packaging Formers Italy's Amut-Comi has developed a new generation of ther- moforming machines for packaging. The VPK C84 series can be specified in offline or inline configuration with three or four stations. It reportedly can form a wide range of mate- rials, including PET, PP, PS, PLA, and PVC for trays, lids, berry boxes, clamshells, nursery trays, and plates. The machine runs at production speeds up to 35 cycles/min; dry cycles are 55/min. The mold has an area of 840 × 650 mm. The four-column forming station has a clamping force of 26.4 tons (a top mold servo plug assist is included), which can be extended to 66 tons if in-mold trimming is needed. The punching station clamping force reaches 26.4 tons in the four-station model and 66 tons for the four-column cutting station. The VPK C84 series is completely servo-driven and equipped with new software including full diagnostics. It is equipped with a servo-driven up-stacker (robot stacking optional) and individual heating-element control for top and bottom ovens with open zone configuration. The oven can be 1.95 m long (three steps) or 3.25 m (five steps for PP). +39 0381 20016 • amut.it @plastechmag 55 Plastics Technology N E W P R O D U C T S F O R P L A S T I C S P R O C E S S I N G