The Italian company, S.T. Soffiaggio Tecnica Srl's machines are designed to create six-layer fuel tanks, ranging in size from 5-25 liters, on a single line. The equipment features five separate extruders – a 75 mm extruder for the outside and inside high density polyethylene layers, a 90 mm extruder for an inner regrind or recycled layer, a 30 mm extruder for an inner EVOH barrier layer and two 25 mm extruders for the adhesive layers.

Coextrusion is an inexpensive way to manufacture containers that meet increasingly-stringent environmental regulations, said Ernie Hollo, president of Hollo Plastics Equipment, S.T.'s sales representative. The multilayer barrier containers help manufacturers meet regulations aimed at eliminating the permeation of hydrocarbons and other VOCs through the walls of portable fuel containers. Multi-layer systems have allowed Scepter to stay in business and continue making fuel containers. Many companies shut-down or stopped making Jerry cans because they could not afford to meet the new environmental standards, said Deo Bansavatar, maintenance manager at Scepter, in a recent phone interview with the publication Plastics News.

About S.T. Soffiaggio Tecnica Srl

S.T.’s machines are fully-adjustable and use continuous extrusion technology. Systems are equipped with a touch-screen computer control system, made by B&R Industrial Automation, which monitors and adjusts 500 identifiable and useable points of control, and regulates air pressure, air volume and clamp positioning. The machine is designed with an open clamping area without tie bars to allow for large or sophisticated fuel tanks. The clamp can move each side of the press independently and is available in various tonnages.

ST will exhibit at NPE2012 at booth 7445.