Via dei Pioppi 3
CH-6855 Stabio
Switzerland
CH-6855 Stabio
Switzerland
ST BlowMoulding at K 2025: Shaping the Future ofTechnical Blow Molding
ST BlowMoulding, Via dei Pioppi 3, 6855 Stabio,Switzerland - July 23th, 2025
Since the last edition of the K Show in 2022, theplastics industry has continued to evolve to meet new challenges in climate,energy, and global supply dynamics.
In this context, ST BlowMoulding reaffirms itscommitment to innovation by prioritizing sustainability, carbon footprint reduction, and high environmental standards. The company reinvests the majorityof its profits in R&D to continuously improve the performance, energy efficiency, and reliability of its blow molding equipment.
Europe remains a cornerstone market for STBlowMoulding. Over its 45 years of operation, the company has established a dominant presence across the continent, where the majority of its machines are installed. Today, ST holds the leading market share in its segments throughout Europe, reflecting a long-standing reputation for quality and technological leadership.
Fig.1: ST BlowMoulding locations in the world
Strategic Expansion and Global Presence
Celebrating its 45th anniversary since its founding in1980, ST BlowMoulding continues its expansion worldwide:
· A new production plant in Lentate sul Seveso (Italy) is under construction and will be operational by the end of 2025, expanding production capacity and flexibility.
· A dedicated facility in China, under the brand ST Machinery Technology Foshan (STONE), now serves the Chinese market with high-quality localized production and support.
· A new headquarter of ST BlowMoulding Usa in Illinois.
These strategic expansions mark a key milestone in the globalization of ST BlowMoulding, enabling more localized production,faster delivery times, and enhanced service responsiveness.
Fig. 2: ST BlowMoulding new plant in Italy.
ST BlowMoulding is proud to present severalgroundbreaking innovations at K 2025, including a world premiere that represents a significant technological leap in the field of industrial packaging.
World Premiere: Full Electric Machine for Ultra-CleanL-Ring Drums
ST BlowMoulding is proud to unveil at K 2025 a fully electric blow molding machine dedicated to the production of 220 LL-Ring drums. Tailored for ultra-clean applications such as those in the semiconductor industry for wet electronic chemicals, this machine represents a market-first solution.
This solution is unique in the market,representing the lowest energy consumption ever achieved in this category combined with the highest compatibility with clean room facilities, lowest contamination by oil, dust and metal ions and highest final product quality. It incorporates:
· A multi-toggle full-electric clamping unit, developed on 2020, now a global market success.
· The exclusive adiabatic"H" extruders for gentle plasticizing and high throughput.
· ABB SynRM motors, enabling exceptional energy efficiency.
· A fully electric3-layer extrusion head, in collaboration with W. Müller.
· The PWDS® system by Feuerherm, fully electric, delivering high-precision wall thickness distribution.
· Special coatings,filtration, and detection systems to meet ultra-clean requirements.
This innovation sets a new standard for energy savings, low contamination, and superior product quality.
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Fig. 3: the new all electric machine CXT 810 HT CoEx3 for the L-Ring Drums production
Technology and Sustainability at the Core
The K 2025 show is an opportunity to explore STBlowMoulding’s ongoing advancements:
· All-electric clamping units for machines up to 200tons
· Industry-leading adiabatic extruders and foaming technologies
· High-throughput machines for industrial packaging (L-Ring Drums, IBCs)
· Multilayer extrusion using PCR and PIR materials, in both continuous and discontinuous processes
· Hydrogen liner technologies for composite pressure vessels
· High-end suction blow molding solutions for EV coolant lines
· Dual Head machines with enhanced automation and OEE
· Energy-efficient retrofits for legacy machines(ST and competitors)
· Patented hands-free AHC systems for fast head-tooling changeovers
· A comprehensive portfolio of clamping units, tailored to all application types
· Automated and user-friendly HMI with IO-Link and OPC UA integration
Fig. 4: The new AX model with full electric clamping unit and extruder platform roll-out
The all-electric clamping unit, introduced by ST BlowMoulding in 2020 for machines up to 200 tons, has marked a significant milestone in the company's technological evolution. Paired with ST’s exclusive adiabatic extruders and a suite of energy-saving innovations, this solution has positioned ST as a benchmark for energy efficiency in the blow molding industry. The combination of mechanical precision and thermal optimization exemplifies ST's commitment to delivering high-performance equipment with minimal environmental impact.
Fig. 5: All ST BlowMoulding machines are ranked in Class 10 of the Euromap 46.1
ST BlowMoulding has been a pioneer in energy-efficient extrusion technology. As early as 2012, it became the first—and remains the only—blow molding machinery manufacturer to implement adiabatic extruders on a large scale. Thanks to a specially engineered screw and barrel design, these extruders enable gentle plasticizing without melt overheating, eliminating the need for cooling fans. Moreover, the double-layer insulation around the barrel reduces heat dissipation by up to ten times compared to conventional extruders, setting a new standard in thermal efficiency for the industry.
Fig. 6: The ST exclusive adiabatic “H” extruders inthe 3-layers configuration.
Today, ST BlowMoulding machines consistently exceed the highest energy efficiency standards defined by Euromap 46.1, achieving Class10 performance (< 0.29 kWh/kg)—even in large-scale extrusion blowmolding systems designed for demanding industrial applications.
Industrial Packaging has become a strategic growth area for ST BlowMoulding. The company has successfully introduced innovative concepts in continuous extrusion technology,supported by highly productive machines tailored for the manufacture of large containers, most notably L-Ring Drums and Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs).These solutions combine high output with exceptional efficiency, reinforcing ST’s leadership in this demanding market segment.
Fig. 7: The ECT model for L-Ring Drums 220 L production with 3-layer continuous extrusion head and PWDS®.
Multilayer technology represents a key area of innovation for ST BlowMoulding, aligned with the growing demand for sustainable packaging and the integration of post-consumer recycled (PCR) and post-industrialrecycled (PIR) materials. ST’s multilayer solutions are now available for both continuous extrusion and accumulator head processes.
In continuous extrusion, ST maintains a strong and long-standing collaboration with W. Müller, ensuring cutting-edge multilayer configurations. For discontinuous extrusion, the latest generation of accumulator heads features two or three dedicated extruders, each feeding an independent melt channel. A newly optimized flow channel design delivers excellent layer balance and consistency, making this solution highly effective for a wide range of two- and three-layer applications.
Fig. 8: The successful ISIT model for the IBC production with ST proprietary Outer Coating Technology and PWDS®
For even more advanced needs, ST also offers its Outer Coating Technology, which includes a separate accumulator chamber to add an additional protective layer—ideal for applications requiring enhanced material performance or barrier properties
In addition to energy savings and the use of recycled materials, reducing raw material consumption is a critical advantage—both environmentally and economically. ST BlowMoulding addresses this with its advanced foaming technology, which introduces a microcellular structure within the blown part by injecting a neutral gas (N₂ or CO₂)in combination with a nucleating agent.
This controlled foaming process results insignificantly lower part density, leading to lighter components, reduced material usage, and improved thermal and acoustic insulation properties. ST’s adiabatic extruders can be pre-configured to integrate gas injection, ensuring seamless adoption of foaming technology into productionlines
Fig. 9: One of the ST bestsellers: the ISIT 1320 equipped with foaming technology
ST BlowMoulding is also exploring new frontiers in the development of advanced technologies for Composite Pressure Vessels (CPVs),including applications for LPG, CNG, and Hydrogen. As the world increasingly looks to Hydrogen as a clean energy carrier to support climate protection goals, ST is committed to playing a leading role in this transition.
The company is actively developing blow molding technologies for hydrogen liners,aligning its deep expertise with the demanding requirements of this emerging market. These solutions are already being deployed through collaborations with key partners across Europe, China, and North America, positioning ST as a strategic player in the global hydrogenvalue chain.
Fig. 10: New market and applications: PA liners for hydrogen composite pressure vessels at 700 bar
ST BlowMoulding also continues to hold a strong position of market and technological leadership in Suction Blow Molding,delivering advanced and innovative solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the automotive industry—particularly in the production of coolant lines for electric vehicles (EVs). These applications demand high precision, complex geometries, and robust performance, all of which are met by ST’s state-of-the-art suction blow molding systems.
Fig. 11: The ASPI model: the flagship ST suction blowmolding machine
ST BlowMoulding has introduced a new generation of Dual Head machines, incorporating a range of advanced solutions aimed at maximizing performance and profitability. These machines feature a highly automated and intelligent control panel, optimized material consumption, and thelowest energy usage in their class, all contributing to industry-leading Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE). This combination of smart automation and process optimization enables ST’s customers to achieve higher productivity,reduced operating costs, and greater return on investment
Fig. 13: ST BlowMoulding new Dual Head machine
The ST BlowMoulding team also places strong emphasison machine retrofitting, an area in which the company has achievedsignificant success. Through comprehensive electronic and software upgrades, ST has revitalized both its own legacy machines and those of other manufacturers—across single-head and dual-head configurations. These retrofits extend equipment lifespan, enhance performance, and bring existing assets in line with modern standards for automation, efficiency, and connectivity
As a final remark, ST BlowMoulding has always placed strong emphasis on machine ergonomics and operator-friendly design.These principles are closely linked to one of the company’s key priorities: minimizing machine downtime. To support this goal, ST has developed a range of rapid head-tooling and mold changeover systems, including its patentedhands-free Automatic Head-tooling Changeover (AHC). This innovative solution, along with other quick-change technologies tailored for both small and large accumulator heads, ensures faster setup, greater safety, andimproved overall productivity.
Fig. 14: The ST proprietary AHC (Automatic Headtooling Changeover) is the new patented totally hands-free device
All of these solutions have been specifically developed and tailored to accommodate the wide range of clamping technologies offered by ST BlowMoulding. The company has continuously invested in diversifying and evolving its clamping systems to meet the technical requirements of various applications and production scenarios. The available configurations include:
· Multi-toggle full-electric clamping units with central screw, two tie bars, and three platens – (Models AX and CXT)
· Tie-bar-less clamping units featuring three force pistons and two platens – (Model TA)
· Open-air clamping units with a central piston and two platens – (Model ASPI)
· Power lock systems with all-electric movements, four tie bars, and two platens – (Model AH)
· Three platens system with two tie-bars and a central piston – (Models ISIT and ECT)
This comprehensive portfolio allows ST to deliver highly customized solutions that align with the evolving demands of the blowmolding industry.
ST BlowMoulding continues to invest heavily in automation and control technologies to enhance connectivity, data integration, and production intelligence. All ST machines are now equipped with IO-Link sensors and actuators, enabling seamless communication and real-time monitoring. These systems are fully Industry 4.0 compliant, supporting remote access, diagnostics, and performance optimization.
Fig. 15: Tie bar less clamping architectures are ST core competence since 45 years on TA and ASPI machine models.
In addition, ST has adopted advanced OPC UA communication protocols, allowing for the efficient transfer of Statistical Process Control (SPC) data, which is essential for process validation,quality assurance, and predictive maintenance
Fig. 16: ST core competence is still in very largemachine up to 3600 kN of clamping force and 90 L accumulator heads
ST BlowMoulding’s HMI and control software are among the most advanced and intuitive solutions available on the market today. Designed with a strong focus on usability and operator experience, the control interface is continuously enhanced with the latest programming innovations to meet the evolving needs of customers.
Complementing the machine interface, ST offers MyST, a dedicated mobile app that allows users to monitor machine status and production data in real-time. This digital tool ensures greater visibility, flexibility, and responsiveness—whether you're on the shop floor or working remotely.
Fig. 17: A screenshot of the newest ST control panel.A simulator is available for preview to all ST partners.
Final Invitation
ST BlowMoulding looks forward to welcoming you at K 2025 in Düsseldorf to explore our newfully electric machine for 220 L drums and to discuss the latest developments in sustainable and advanced blow molding technology. Join us to shape the future of global plastics processing.
