Close×

PET solutions provider Sidel has developed new technology for heat-resistant bottle production.

Traditionally, PET bottles for hot filling are produced via the heat-resistant stretch blow moulding process at 120°/140°C – a temperature usually attained by circuits of hot oil.

By using electricity instead to heat the mould for the PET bottle body, the Sidel Matrix eHR blower prevents hazards caused by oil leakages, such as operators' slipping and product contamination.

Probes are directly located in each mould shell to regulate the temperature as closely as possible to the PET bottle as it is formed.

tr

The process is responsive, heating at a rate three times quicker than by oil, accurately providing the correct temperatures from the first bottles produced.

This results in a blowing process which is uniform between blowing stations, ensuring high bottle quality and consistent performance in the hands of the consumer, even at outputs of up to 2000 bottles per hour, per mould.

The blower also offers energy savings of up to 45 per cent.

Sidel offers a range of PET packaging solutions for safely handling sensitive and natural beverages such as juices, teas, and sports drinks.

Food & Drink Business

Poultry and food producer, TasFoods, and its subsidiaries – including Nichols Poultry – have been acquired by RAMP Tasmania Poultry. The sale ensures the continued local operation of TasFoods and the employment of all Tasmanian staff.

The winners of the 2026 World Drinks Awards have been announced, with several Australian distillers recognised across a range of categories – including Prohibition Liquor Co, Fnq Rum Co, New Norfolk Distillery, Reef Distillers and Never Never.

The Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania (RAST) has launched its inaugural 2026 Royal Tasmanian Whisky & Spirits Awards, supported by Lark Distillery founder and industry veteran, Bill Lark, as Patron of the Awards.