MACHINERY | DOWNSTREAM EQUIPMENT


Right: Sun Chemical presented its latest masterbatch innovations at Kuteno recently


carriers are also available, including compostable carriers. Chroma Color, for example, launched three colour masterbatches, an orange, red, and white using a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) bio-based polyester carrier resin, that complies with ASTM D-6400/DIN EN13432 standards for compostability. Sun Chemical recently presented its latest masterbatch innovations at Kuteno in Germany. This included its Sicolen colour masterbatches for PE and PP, which it claims offer a wide colour spectrum, tailor-made formulations and suitability for diverse applications. In addition, its Sicoversal masterbatches for engineering plastics were developed for high-performance applications that require precise colour and formulation control. Finally, its Sicoplast dry blends are customised for specific processing requirements with flexible, application-oriented formulations. “Customers need reliable partners who can deliver consistent quality, technical collaboration and speed,” said Kai Sörensen, masterbatch managing director at Sun Chemical. “We support this through our strong formulation expertise, responsive technical service and access to one of the world’s broadest pigment portfolios.”


Below: Coperion’s C-Beyond digital platform is used by German masterbatch manufacturer CPC for


multiple tasks


Digital technology New technologies – including artificial intelligence (AI) tools, inline measurement, and advanced process control – enable faster, more efficient, and higher quality production and can help master- batch suppliers meet performance expectations. While AI-based tools are at various stages of development and use, the trend to automation and digital systems is well underway. “Digital systems can take over repetitive and


routine tasks, enabling our teams to focus more on creative, analytical, and complex responsibilities that truly add value,” said Gabriel-Chemie. “We


IMAGE: SUN CHEMICAL


also see great potential in the integration of AI into this digital transformation. While we are still in the development phase, we are exploring how AI can help recognise process patterns, support predic- tive adjustments, and optimise production work- flows. We see particular potential in AI-assisted forecasting, predictive maintenance, and digital quality management to improve reliability and responsiveness. Looking further ahead, applica- tions such as AI-based formulation support, inline quality measurement, or the use of large language models for knowledge management could open new ways of combining human expertise with intelligent systems.” Extruder manufacturer Coperion’s C-Beyond digital platform provides real-time tracking of production that allows companies to evaluate overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and maxim- ise operational efficiency. German masterbatch manufacturer CPC is using C-Beyond to track production, support order planning, and schedule maintenance to minimise downtime, Coperion reported. In addition, energy consumption data is monitored to support optimisation. “For us, CPC’s digitisation initiative confirms the added value that C-Beyond can offer. We are convinced that will be a groundbreaking tool in the long term, helping customers achieve increases in productivity and sustainability,” said Markus Schmudde, head of research & development, compounding & extrusion at Coperion. “Customers now expect faster colour matching,


digital prototyping, and data-driven quality control,” added LYB. “The broader use of inline spectroscopy and digital shade control is enhancing colour accuracy, reducing scrap, and supporting more consistent, recyclable packaging production.” “AI is transforming masterbatch manufacturing by enabling virtual colour and property prediction, formulation optimisation and real-time anomaly


32 FILM & SHEET EXTRUSION | September 2026 www.filmandsheet.com


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