MACHINERY | THERMOFORMING
It says the range promises lower energy use, with new concepts in optimised machine geom- etries, intelligent power management and AI-driv- en automatic parameter setting.
“Sustainability is a top priority in our industry,
and energy efficiency remains a cornerstone of our innovation,” said Giuseppe Dall’Ora, thermoform- ing sales manager at Cannon. The e-Forming series is ideal for manufacturers
Above: Kiefel is mapping details of its KTR series in a digital twin based on Siemens technology
The TIA ecosystem and integrated automation solution also makes accessing data from the machine and the process easier. “This includes diagnostic data, but also data on performance and process quality,” he said. “We now have much more information that we can use for process optimisation, enabling us to continu- ously improve our solutions.” Kiefel will eventually roll out the Simatic solution to all its machine series – resulting in a ‘machine construction kit’ for project planning.
Right: Cannon says its e-Forming series is the industry’s most compact machine
Efficiency drive Geiss says the T11 is its most advanced thermo- forming machine, combining high efficiency with intuitive operation. Its touchscreen interface and visualisation of machine components makes for easy operation, it says. Users tap on the desired component to make settings quickly and efficiently. Entering tool dimensions is all that is needed and the T11 adjusts automatically – from the end positions to the travel paths. It also has display customisation options and allows clear visualisation of process data. The T11 also has advanced heating control, enabling the creation of individual heating zones. This is critical for precise thermoforming, as it ensures optimum heat distribution depending on the product requirements. This is particularly useful in complex production tasks such as multi-cavity production. In addition, the T11 Automation offers an
integrated robot controller. This eliminates the need for separate control systems and simplifies operation – which increases thermoforming efficiency and flexibility, says Geiss.
Compact concept Cannon launched its e-Forming thermoforming series at K2025 – saying it is the industry’s most compact machine.
14 FILM & SHEET EXTRUSION | March 2026
of large thermoformed parts such as components for trucks, industrial and agricultural equipment, public transport and aircraft interiors – as well as thermoplastic pallets and trays. At the heart of the system is ‘Easy Power Mapping’, a patented, AI-powered system that configures initial settings to raise process stability, optimise material distribution, lower sheet thick- ness and drastically cut energy use. In addition, Cannon’s ‘Easy Tool Change’ system enables fast, safe, and complete tool changes, which is essential for high-mix, low-volume manu- facturing. The redesigned mechanical layout also simplifies maintenance by improving access to its components.
Autonomous vehicle Sekisui Kydex has supplied a flame-retardant thermoforming material for a new design of autonomous vehicle. German start-up Holon has developed a
‘next-generation shuttle’ that required a material solution to meet FMVSS 302 flammability stand- ards, support recyclability and maintain a premium aesthetic across all interior components. Sekisui supplied it with Allen 5050 WLG, a low-gloss, high-impact material that delivers “visual consistency and tactile comfort”. Holon’s design team chose the material for its ability to reduce glare and enhance passenger experience – while
IMAGE: CANNON
www.filmandsheet.com
IMAGE: KIEFEL
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