Kiefel SharpFormer revolutionizes refrigerator industry

The latest standard thermoforming system SharpFormer from Kiefel, plus the supporting software KID-CAT are revolutionising refrigerator production. Thanks to the modular construction, the  system's delivery times are almost halved compared to conventional systems.

The latest innovation from Kiefel is already causing a sensation among specialist groups. "We have made a quantum leap with the SharpFormer", reports the division leader responsible, Andreas Frisch. The global standard, developed at the company's own technology center in Freilassing, combines the latest requirements of the market with the outstanding expertise of Kiefel.

The ultramodern production processes and sound technology deliver the optimum mix of advantages for refrigerator manufacturers: System delivery times of just four months instead of seven, highly efficient production processes, uncomplicated tool changes and low energy consumption.  

The machine has been designed to be more flexible. The modular design enables huge savings while responding rapidly to requirements. The modular system makes it possible to freely select the production direction from left to right and  visa versa without influencing the delivery time. With its compact dimensions, the system also fits into smaller halls. "Due to the faster cycle time of just 24 seconds - in other words 150 refrigerator inner liners produced per hour - the customer also generates greater revenues in the same time," according to Murat Derin, project manager at Kiefel.

A range of tools are used for production of the thermoformed refrigerator inner liners, while  various process temperatures are required depending on the material used.  Leading-edge black ceramic radiators are used for this; these are impact resistant, durable and separately controllable. In the tool interface area, Kiefel has developed a new flexible system, which facilitates interface adaptation of 90 percent of the tools found on the market within an extremely fast set-up time.

In order to optimally support production, the new KID-CAT software is available on the operating panel. The software  guides the operator on a step-by-step basis through the creation of a new recipe and delivers time savings of up to 85 percent. This unique software is supported by video clips, which visualize the thermoforming process for the operator.