MACHINERY | CONTROL AND INSTRUMENTATION


AI assistant Macchi has upgraded its Easy Control line supervi- sion system – which has now been enhanced with an IoT system for production data management and the new AI Assistant, to resolve line operational issues while minimising downtime. The system was seen at K2025, running on a seven-layer co-extru- sion line making barrier film. During the show, Macchi also focused on


Above: Macchi has added new support systems


including an AI assistant to its lines


specific requirements. The third product stream, Next Data, enables


producers to fully exploit their production data. Data is automatically aggregated via system integration (like OPC UA or GraphQL) and dis- played in clear dashboards using the ExtrusionOS application suite. ExtrusionOS is designed for the needs of the plastics extrusion and packaging industry. For instance, customers can use it to create real-time analyses and automated OEE calculations to make data-driven decisions. “With our Next product streams, we provide our customers with a customised industrial AI journey,” said Karnath. In addition, the company’s cast lines can be


automated with its PAM (precise, autonomous, mechatronic) system, which controls the coextru- sion adapter and die via mechatronic actuators and carries out product changeovers automatically. A new version, launched at K, further increases the level of automation with new features.


Smart work Amut says its smart virtual assistant can enhance cast line operations. It does this by providing: troubleshooting and setup; live production data and trend analysis; access to Amut know-how, manuals, schematics and technical documents; operator guidance and training tools; and, direct interaction with the machine for immediate adjustments. By combining automation, intelligence, and accessibility, it helps reduce downtime, raise efficiency, and put expert knowledge at the operator’s fingertips, says Amut. It also introduced two other digital innovations:


a predictive maintenance system that delivers real-time monitoring and anomaly detection; and Advanced Interface for Data Analysis (Aida), which collects and analyses data across the production line.


26 FILM & SHEET EXTRUSION | March 2026


automation, including its new Easy Control Plus system. Developed on Siemens Simatic WinCC Uni- fied, it enables the creation of customisable interfaces, integrates external utilities and allows process data to be saved. Its integration with the Macchi IoT system enables real-time machine monitoring and the identification of factors that limit efficiency and productivity. In addition, the Macchi AI system, which uses


generative artificial intelligence, supports operators in daily plant operations – offering direct support for fault diagnosis and alarm resolution to reduce machine downtime.


Output boost


Windmoeller & Hoelscher (W&H) says its Easy2 Run system, launched at K2025, can boost the output of blown film lines. The system “removes the guesswork and anxiety”


from everyday operations, making it easy for customers to run at higher average outputs, it says. Easy2 Run is fully automated, and at the push of


a button can raise line performance and output by continuously monitoring the process in the background so operators do not need to rely on experience alone. Key features include: automated maximum


output at the push of a button; real-time visualisa- tion of machine parameters and reserves; live image of frost line and bubble shape; and, auto- mated frost line control under changing ambient conditions. The system manages over 1,000 production-


relevant parameters, taking the manual fine-tuning for the operator out the equation. “Easy2 Run is available with new lines and as a


retrofit,” said Leon Rupe, director of extrusion sales at W&H. “When running the numbers, customers have often been surprised at how quickly the system pays for itself – sometimes in just months.”


Better execution BMSvision says its latest Manufacturing Execution System (MES) technology monitors and synchro- nises manufacturing and logistic activities, from order input and inventory management to the


www.filmandsheet.com


IMAGE: MACCHI


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