The reasons for the shift in demand are of different nature. In many cases, 3-layer films are already produced on 5-layer lines, because the savings that can be achieved are by no means insignificant. The outer or functional layers produced with expensive raw materials are split then: a metallocene layer comes out much thinner than normally, for example, if it is split out into 2 layers with the new layer of less expensive LLDPE. The two additional extruders are available so that these new layers can be applied.
But 5-layer lines are also of great interest for new entrants in barrier film production. Should the recently acquired machine initially not be fully utilized for producing barrier films , the plastics processor can also use it for classic 3-layer applications (such as for production of laminated films). This way, such a multi-use line enables the highest flexibility and greatest possible capability of adaptation to new market requirements.

Reifenhäuser Kiefel Extrusion has barrier lines with smooth bore extruders and the entire range of KIRION® modules in its program that allow for the different configurations and equipment variations. With die head diameters of 150 to 600 millimeters, the diversity in materials and film structures that can be processed are therefore almost unlimited. Producers of vacuum block-shaped packaging for cheese, nuts or tea leaves count, for example, among those customers who already use 5-layer lines today. The blown films produced by them with small diameter die heads possess widths of approx. 500 millimeters. But the lines from Worms also offer all required prerequisites for FFS applications with barrier properties. Plastics processors active in international markets increasingly appreciate these numerous application possibilities. The latest and most current example is a customer in Indonesia who has only recently started up operation of such a line.