At the beginning of the new year, Hennecke - the renowned manufacturer of polyurethane processing technology - started producing its new HIGHLINE MK2. The entirely re-developed, high-pressure metering machine is the second model in the Next-Generation line from the global market leader based in Sankt Augustin, Germany. A wide range of options allows the compact machine to be adapted to a variety of applications. Versatile and multi-talented, the HIGHLINE MK2 offers an impressively high standard of quality, along with a host of benefits and innovations for both manual and automated production.
Hennecke's 'Next-Generation' is the successful outcome of a long development process, resulting in a completely new generation of high-pressure metering machines, manufactured under the new 'Hennecke Production System' and offering plenty of customer benefits: attractive entry prices, significantly shorter lead times and a minimal machine footprint. "Thanks to our new production method, we are able to reduce the processing time in cyclic assembly to five days," says Jens Winiarz, Senior Sales Director at Hennecke, explaining the new advantage in time. The machine’s well-engineered one-frame design also provides optimum access to all component parts. Capable of processing virtually all common raw material systems, the HIGHLINE MK2 offers almost limitless application possibilities thanks to the generous options available for individual selection.
Mixing and metering without any quality compromise with machine technology for every conceivable and inconceivable application: for more than 50 years, metering machines from Hennecke have been synonymous with top quality polyurethane processing and have been the centrepiece of countless processing plants. The Hennecke lineup comprises modular configurable systems for small to large outputs with first-class metering pumps, a great choice of state-of-the-art mixheads and intelligent automation.
More than half a century ago, the HK type series heralded a new era – high-pressure polyurethane processing. Today, high-pressure metering machines form the basis when it comes to processing a whole variety of PU applications. Depending on the plant configuration and the mixhead used, modern metering machines allow all kinds of rigid and flexible foams as well as integral skin foams to be produced. The consistently modular construction offers processors more flexibility, also in the long term, if, for example, they later wish to expand production or combine with production plants.
Globally, several thousand HK machines are successfully in use in almost all fields of application. The machine concept of the TOPLINE series comprises a sophisticated arrangement of the individual units, top-quality, first-class components, an ultramodern and user-friendly control system and state-of-the-art mixhead technology. The current TOPLINE generation is equipped with an intelligently revised machine concept and optimised standard features.
The TOPLINE HK-TI is fully tailored to the needs of the industry in the field of rigid foam applications, in particular insulating foam. The modern machine system has an excellent price/performance ratio as standard and is available in three sizes: as HK 270/270, HK 650/650 and HK 1250/1250. Of course, the TOPLINE HK TI is also a suitable option for processing the blowing agent pentane. For the TOPLINE HK-TI, all machine components are installed on a common machine frame. This enables simple integration within production with short assembly and commissioning times. The TOPLINE HK-TI is available with two mixheads if desired. The machine control system is based on the established HIGHTRONIC control system. All functional components, like the type MT mixhead and the type HQ pumps are proven quality components that are also used for the TOPLINE HK.
Moulded foam lines rely on a further development of the TOPLINE type series. The "HK-MF" version has been optimised to meet the specific requirements of moulded foam production and is suitable for reliably processing up to six reactive components in a plant network. Users benefit from an extremely compact machine frame that incorporates all elements of a reactive component and, compared with the classical TOPLINE, scores points because the pipework has been significantly reduced. Combined with a temperature control system in the component feed line, this ensures very precise temperature control. When using two mixheads or two injection robots, the "HK-MF" is employed as a twin module. Especially when it comes to multi-component applications with up to twelve metering lines, this means once again that a considerable amount of precious production space is saved. Apart from the efficient raw material temperature control system, HQ axial piston pumps are included in the standard scope of delivery of the WKH unit. If desired, users can opt for state-of-the-art magnetic coupling technology and other features.
The wear-resistant, reactionless HT metering system with tandem plunger pumps is suitable for extreme demands in various output ranges. HT piston metering machines are capable of processing filled and unfilled components in absolute conformity with the formulation both in a discontinuous and continuous operation. This means that the robust metering machines are for example qualified for processing polyols with different fillers, abrasive colour pigments or high-viscosity raw material systems. TOPLINE HT machines also offer major advantages in the processing of synthetic resin using the RTM method (Resin Transfer Moulding). Two machine types (HT80 and HT180) are available, covering an output range of 8 - 360 cm³/s. In addition to processing polyols with solid flame retardants – for example, ammonium polyphosphate, melamine resin and expanded graphite – the systems are also particularly suitable for processing polyols made of renewable raw materials, recycled polyols, polyols with fillers such as PUR regrind or abrasive fillers such as glass fibers, calcium carbonate, barite, abrasive colour pigments and highly viscous raw material systems.
Common metering machines for liquid components which are equipped with high-speed piston pumps cannot withstand the high abrasiveness of solid fillers long-term. Especially for processing main components containing fillers, Hennecke has therefore developed the TOPLINE HT500evo metering machine with a low-wear plunger pump which produces even under highly abrasive conditions with high precision, repeat accuracy and endurance. The TOPLINE HT500evo has an attractive price-performance ratio and is suitable for parts weighing up to three kilogrammes, with an output of 100 - 500 cm³/s. One of the main applications of this device is the production of comfort flexible foam that is, for example, used in seats and cushions for vehicles, especially in public transportation. Another area of application of the TOPLINE HT500evo are rigid foam applications, as for insulation within the framework of fire protection class B2 in the construction industry. Hennecke offers the TOPLINE HT500evo as an independent 2-component metering machine or as a module device for retrofitting an existing TOPLINE metering machine. In addition to processing polyols with solid flame retardants – for example, ammonium polyphosphate, melamine resin and expanded graphite – the efficient metering system is also particularly suitable for processing polyols made of renewable raw materials, recycled polyols, polyols with fillers such as PUR regrind or abrasive fillers such as glass fibers, calcium carbonate, barite, abrasive colour pigments and highly viscous raw material systems.
STREAMLINE metering machines come equipped with comprehensive standard parts, a self-cleaning high-pressure mixhead and an intuitive touchscreen control system. Thanks to an efficient and reliable heating system for tanks and pumps using tried and tested hot air technology, the STREAMLINE ensures effective heating of components as well as excellent mixing results, even when outputs are low. The second generation STREAMLINE offers Hennecke customers a tailor-made processing system for two forward-looking technologies. Hennecke has fully overhauled and refined the STREAMLINE high-pressure metering machines using the experience of our application and process specialists and in consultation with our customers. The improvements have focused particularly on ease of service and operation. The STREAMLINE MK2 provides users with a high-pressure metering system which sets standards by enabling consistent optimization through serial applications. Reliable operation, innovative detailed solutions and space-saving machine design ensure that your production has the decisive advantage.
The new TOPLINE MK2 is the crowning highlight of Hennecke's Next Generation series. The premium high-pressure metering machine covers all conceivable PU applications. This is the case too when it comes to highly demanding raw material systems typically requiring the most exact temperature control possible. It is also the first choice for highly automated applications such as refrigerated furniture production, seat foams or exterior and interior components for vehicle production. The TOPLINE MK2 is used as a stand-alone solution or in all conceivable system configurations where the highest quality, the greatest possible production and process stability as well as automation and scalability are required. Alongside powerful basic equipment, it offers maximum flexibility and adapts to even the most complex process requirements thanks to numerous optional modules.
A tried-and-tested field of application for polyurethane and polyurea system is the surface finishing of decorative elements in the automotive sector, in the furniture industry or for many other decorative applications by coating them with transparent PU systems using the RIM process. While the STREAMLINE machine system can only fully bring its strengths to bear with one transparent or coloured polyurethane system, COLOURLINE with MULTI-CONNECT technology enables fast and easy colour changes. Flexible production with multiple coloured polyurethane systems becomes possible through the system-related distribution of the isocyanate component and the polyol colour component in different units.
When it comes to processing raw material systems used in the low-pressure range Hennecke offers you – just as in high-pressure metering – state-of-the-art systems technology as the basis for perfect, high-quality end products. Hennecke also has decades of experience in low-pressure metering systems. For example, in the processing of casting systems or raw materials with high viscosity for making elastomer components or thermoformable foam products. Users also benefit here of course from the advantages offered by modular configurable systems which are flexible and can be adapted to any application.
Common metering machines for liquid components which are equipped with high-speed piston pumps cannot withstand the high abrasiveness of solid fillers long-term. Especially for processing main components containing fillers, Hennecke has therefore developed the TOPLINE HT500evo metering machine with a low-wear plunger pump which produces even under highly abrasive conditions with high precision, repeat accuracy and endurance. The TOPLINE HT500evo has an attractive price-performance ratio and is suitable for parts weighing up to three kilogrammes, with an output of 100 - 500 cm³/s. One of the main applications of this device is the production of comfort flexible foam that is, for example, used in seats and cushions for vehicles, especially in public transportation. Another area of application of the TOPLINE HT500evo are rigid foam applications, as for insulation within the framework of fire protection class B2 in the construction industry. Hennecke offers the TOPLINE HT500evo as an independent 2-component metering machine or as a module device for retrofitting an existing TOPLINE metering machine. In addition to processing polyols with solid flame retardants – for example, ammonium polyphosphate, melamine resin and expanded graphite – the efficient metering system is also particularly suitable for processing polyols made of renewable raw materials, recycled polyols, polyols with fillers such as PUR regrind or abrasive fillers such as glass fibers, calcium carbonate, barite, abrasive colour pigments and highly viscous raw material systems.
Wet compression moulding processes are gaining increasing importance in the manufacture of continuous fiber-reinforced structural components with simple geometries and at the same time extremely short cycle times. With its low-pressure JETLINE metering machine, HENNECKE offers its customers a tailor-made system to meet the continually growing demand in this emerging area of application. The compact metering machine is deliberately not intended for the widest possible range of applications and concentrates exclusively on a highly efficient production process for any WCM application process. The new JETLINE offers top process stability, highly reliable components and a robust machine layout. Hennecke's longstanding process expertise in the manufacture of (continuous) fiber composites and decades of experience in low-pressure processing of reactive plastic systems are included as standard. The JETLINE system offers customers significant advantages for simple continuous fiber-reinforced plastics - its level of automation and specific cycle time provide the highest efficiency and product quality.
The HK-R 5000 is a metering machine whose components are perfectly suited to the requirements posed by the discontinuous production of open-cell polyurethane foam blocks. High-quality, thermoformable foam products are often used to manufacture roof linings in the automotive sector. A special stirrer mixhead and extremely powerful axial piston pumps enable outputs of up to 7500 cm³/s – even if there is a great difference in viscosity. This allows large foam blocks of up to 6m³ to be made. The HK-R measures out liquid materials from amply-dimensioned work tanks. A plate heat exchanger replaces the shell and tube heat exchanger in the return line so as to control the temperature. It is installed in a separate, constant temperature control circuit with a dedicated pump that takes up much less space.
One key factor that ensures high-quality and efficient processing of polyurethane is mixhead technology. The development and manufacture of high-pressure mixheads requires a great deal of know-how and many years of experience. Hennecke has outstanding expertise in this area and makes its mixheads (apart from a few standard parts) in its own manufacturing halls. This is a novelty in the European competitive market. It is also the reason why many leading PU processors prefer mixheads from Hennecke. They know from experience that the high-quality design pays off in the production process.
Whether rigid or flexible, integral skin, filling or energy-absorbing foam is concerned, Hennecke has the appropriate high-pressure polyurethane mixhead for almost every application that requires mixing based on the impingement injection principle, from standard to specific applications. Variable sizes and injector shapes as well as a comprehensive range of accessories ensure that the mixheads can be adapted to suit a great variety of conceivable requirements - including yours!
The MT-A mixhead series is the most recent product in Hennecke's mixhead portfolio and since 2020 has been available in more and more different varieties. These mixheads share the same basic design as the successful MT deflection mixheads but are made of optimized materials and high-quality surface coatings which provide for high durability, even under difficult production conditions and when using demanding chemical systems.
The MT-E mixhead has been specially developed for the ECOPLUS metering machines and offers the perfect balance of simple and functional operability with the high-performance design features of the MT-A series. The two-component MT-E mixhead impresses with its high-quality materials and surface treatments as well as its high durability, even under difficult production conditions. An enlarged opening on the spacer tube and the even surface make manual cleaning easier and reduce the servicing required. Users can control the foaming process directly on the mixhead using the intuitive and robust control panel. The suspension of the mixhead is weight balanced at all times, both with horizontal and vertical mounting. Efficient output is ensured by the reliable FIXJET injectors. Upon request, the MT-E mixheads can be equipped with the FLEXJET constant pressure injectors to optimize the metering accuracy and mixing quality even further.
Due to their high precision and durability, the high-pressure MT mixheads have been proven in all application areas for over ten years and are very well-established in the PU industry for all production scenarios. To the user, this translates above all into optimum processing results across the entire range of common PU systems. Our MT mixheads can inject up to four reaction components into the mixing chamber via high-efficiency injectors. The reaction mix then flows into the 90° offset outlet pipe. This deflection supports the mixing process, calms the mixture and ensures a laminar, splash-free discharge into the open mold. Due to their robust design, MT mixheads are also particularly maintenance-friendly and noted for their attractive life-cycle cost. Moreover, they are available upon request with Hennecke's FLEXJET constant pressure injectors which maintain an almost constant mixing pressure over a wide operating range. Output changes can thus be made without injector adjustment. This also effectively expands the application range of the mixhead.
Our MN linear mixheads operate on the groove-control principle. Due to their special parameters, they are particularly suitable for polyurethane spray-molding processes (PUR-CSM technology) and applications involving filled components. Hennecke's lineup of 2- to 4-component MN mixheads covers a vast spectrum of outputs, ranging from 6 cm³/s to 10,000 cm³/s. For CSM spray applications, users can optionally add 'smart' MN accessories such as a spraying lance for complex mold geometries or a high-performance cutter for a metered addition of glass fibers. Moreover, MN mixheads are ideal for attachment and thus suited for all RIM and RRIM processes. MN mixheads are optionally available with Hennecke constant pressure injectors which maintain a virtually constant mixing pressure over a wide operating range. Output changes can thus be effected without injector adjustment. At the same time, the application range of the mixhead is effectively expanded.
Air-cleaned "L-type" ML and MXL deflection mixheads operate on the proved impingement injection principle, whereby the entire recirculation of the components is groove-controlled. The patented air cleaning function which is based on the cyclone principle completely eliminates the need for solvents. When operated manually, the low weight of the ML and MXL mixheads makes them more ergonomic to handle and easier to work with, even if the molds are difficult to access. With outputs of up to 9,000 cm³/s, these air-cleaned mixheads are also suitable for demanding tasks such as foam-insulating district heating pipes. Our ML and MXL mixheads are also optionally available with Hennecke constant pressure injectors which maintain an almost constant mixing pressure over a wide operating range. Output changes can thus be made without injector adjustment. This also effectively expands the application range of the mixhead.
Slabstock foams are used when cushioning and insulating qualities combined with low weight are important. Processors who want to be competitive and conform to market requirements must be able to offer their customers high-quality products with a wide range of specific properties. Here, continuously as well as discontinuously operated slabstock systems technology from Hennecke offers the decisive advantage. The application of various technologies allows processors to achieve an extremely high degree of material yield. It is not without reason that Hennecke is the global market leader in this segment, offering a wide range of plant configurations for standard and special foams. In addition, we can also offer our customers slabstock systems technology that has been specially developed for test series and laboratory purposes
Hennecke is considered the market leader in the field of slabstock machines and systems. This know-how is reflected in MULTIFLEX lines. When it comes to manufacturing slabstock in a continuous process, the use of high-pressure technology, the liquid laydown process and the flat-top system allows processors to achieve a highly efficient raw material yield and excellent foam qualities. As the MULTIFLEX is equipped with high-quality standard components, it can make the most of its advantages at an excellent price-performance ratio while reducing maintenance and spare parts costs. Its modular design is also consistently based on economic principles: Assembly and start-up times are reduced efficiently and for a long time after delivery, the plant can be retrofitted with additional modules, special accessories and equipment to meet new market conditions. This means that the production process will remain competitive in the long term.
The results of over 60 years of research and development are reflected in Hennecke’s QUADROFOAMAT (QFM) slabstock lines. Thanks to the fact that all components across all viscosity ranges are precisely metered, output settings are exactly reproducible, the adjustment range is large and because the plant has been combined with the extremely successful UBT technology including fall-plates, QFM lines open up many horizons for the efficient production of pinhole-free ether and esther foams that are up to 2,500 mm wide and, depending on the foam type and density, up to 1,500 mm high. A computer-controlled flow metering system provides additional production reliability, in particular when formulations or colours need to be changed on the fly without stopping the plant. Depending on foam type, formulation and plant configuration, cell sizes of 8-100 ppi are possible.
For over 50 years, Hennecke-OMS has been offering its customers integrated production solutions for processing polyurethane. Today the company is amongst the leading global manufacturers of machines for polyurethane processing and has a multitude of innovative products in its history that have set market standards.
The Hennecke-OMS product portfolio includes the worldwide largest range of plants for producing sandwich panels. Hennecke-OMS enjoys decades of experience in the manufacture of sandwich panel plants and provides its customers with a huge range of diverse technologies and production systems. This is the case for all sandwich panels, regardless of whether they have flexible or rigid facings.When you choose plant technology from the global leader, you will benefit from our comprehensive product portfolio for all conceivable applications: ranging from extensive standardized plants for cost-efficient production to highly flexible solutions for state-of-the-art manufacture using multi-functional plant technology. This includes both continuous and discontinuous panel lines, for large-scale production as well as for individual end products with a specific range of properties.
Rigid polyurethane foam has the lowest thermal conductivity of all insulating materials and is therefore used in the form of metal composite elements in industrial and cold store construction, as well as in cooling chambers for supermarkets and in thermal assemblies for trucks. With its highly developed, continuously or discontinuously operating sandwich panel lines, Hennecke-OMS has played a decisive role in this success story right from the start. The PANELMASTER STEEL plant is designed for the continuous production of top-quality sandwich panels with different facings, panel thicknesses and profiles and the option of a core structure made of polyurethane or mineral wool. Thanks to the company HPT GmbH, the Hennecke GROUP also has a highly-specialized provider of high-performance trapezoidal sheet roll forming systems, which can be seamlessly incorporated into the existing plant concept for the PANELMASTER STEEL continuous sandwich panel lines. In the continuous production of sandwich elements with metal facing, Hennecke-OMS is one of only a few suppliers that can offer its customers convincing all-round solutions from a single source.
Continuous sandwich panel lines for producing polyurethane insulating boards with flexible facings are primarily used for heat insulation of house and industrial roofs as well as wall, floor and ceiling insulation. Trust in the production system of a global leader! Continuous panel plant technology from Hennecke-OMS allows for large-scale, high-speed production of top-quality insulation boards with a variety of flexible facings, thicknesses and edge profiles. Our comprehensive system solutions produce packaged and stacked end products at high speed due to the use of process and handling systems.
Given their excellent range of properties, sandwich panels with a polyurethane core provide an alternative to traditional construction methods - not only in economic, but above all in ecological terms. PANELMASTER production lines are used worldwide for the continuous manufacture of insulating panels. But in many applications, the discontinuous production process offers decisive advantages and important unique features. For instance, when using facing material with specific properties or incorporating special mechanical fixings within the panel. Discontinuous panel manufacture also makes sense for lower production volumes or when extraordinary dimensions are required. Cold storages and cooling trailers are an important field of application, as is the construction sector, both private and commercial. Users all over the world rely on flexible PANELFOAMER systems concepts by Hennecke-OMS.
The ECOFILLER PLUS belongs to a range of Hennecke GROUP projects aiming to offer market players more sustainable technologies and services along the polyurethane processing chain. Developed in several stages, the ECOFILLER PLUS utilizes new technology for re-introducing PUR cuttings and material waste from the customer's own rigid foam production back into the production process. This makes production more resource-efficient, whilst protecting the environment at the same time. Besides recycling, the main use of the ECOFILLER is to obtain a final product with improved fire behavior thanks to the specific use of powders as flame retardant.
The ECOFILLER PLUS features an innovative loading, preparation and mixing stage for the liquid media, and solid fillers, as well as offering a number of other benefits:
Hennecke GmbH Roll Forming Technology has been developing, designing and building high-class roll forming systems for over 40 years. Alongside roll forming plants for insulated roof and wall sandwich panels, the portfolio includes roll forming machines and presses for manufacturing sectional door panels, as well as cut-to-length systems and high-performance trapezoidal sheet roll forming plants.
With its CONTIMAT and PANELMASTER systems, the Hennecke GROUP has made a name for itself worldwide in the continuous production of high-quality sandwich panels. For panels with metal facings, Hennecke GmbH Roll Forming Technology, based in the Siegerland region of Germany, offers suitable machine technology for surface and edge profiling. The highly specialized company has over 40 years of experience in manufacturing roll forming machinery. The Hennecke GROUP is therefore one of only a few companies worldwide with overall system competence and can offer its customers complete solutions for everything ranging from sheet metal decoiling to packaging the finished stack. When it comes to modernizing and expanding plants that have been manufactured by other companies, Hennecke GmbH Roll Forming Technology is also a highly competent partner.
Hennecke GmbH Roll Forming Technology can create almost any profile shape. The high level of flexibility in the individual departments means we are able to provide our customers with almost any plant tailored to their individual requirements and specifications. We also have the perfect solution for your product idea. Get in touch with us!
PUR Composite Spray Molding Technology (PUR-CSM) enables the manufacture of fibre-reinforced components or compound parts from filled or unfilled PU systems in a spraying process. As a basis and development platform for all known CSM products, the patented technology offers extremely competitive advantages over other traditional processes and products. For example, users do not need any solvents for cleaning the standard spray units within the individual process steps. Moreover, the same mixhead can be used for processing different raw material systems simultaneously even if outputs are different. Apart from the typical raw materials systems, fillers and chopped fibreglass can be processed and sprayed, which significantly improves the product properties. Thanks to these benefits, many new standard products that are now part of Hennecke’s machinery and equipment portfolio have been developed. The best examples are our systems for the large-scale production of lightweight interior parts, sanitary products or spray skin applications in both the automotive and non-automotive sector.
By combining high-pressure technology and the conventional RTM process Hennecke has broken new ground in polyurethane processing technology. Its High-Pressure RTM process (HP-RTM) offers users a new concept as well as an appropriate processing system for manufacturing extremely lightweight high-performance parts. By comparison to the “conventional” RTM process that is characterised by long process times because of the many manual procedures involved, HP-RTM technology scores regarding the degree of automation and specific cycle times. It offers significant advantages when it comes to the realization of larger quantities.
PENTANE has been and is still largely responsible for the fact that rigid and integral skin foams can be manufactured without an impact on the environment. Pentane Process Technology (PPT) was launched by Hennecke already in 1993 and has been playing a leading role since. The processing of pentane as a substitute for CFCs was mainly driven by the refrigerator and freezer industry. Apart from this application, Pentane-blown PU systems are also used in the production of sandwich panels, district heating pipes and steering wheels made of semi-rigid integral skin foam. Because PENTANE can create an explosive atmosphere at certain gas concentrations, PPT technology comprises a catalogue of primary and secondary measures that prevent the emergence of explosive mixes right from the start. One additional safety plus is realised by technical precautions which have been developed in close cooperation with TÜV Süddeutschland (Southern German Technical Inspectorate).
A tried-and-tested field of application of polyurethane is the surface finishing of parts e.g. by coating them with transparent PU systems using the RIM process (Reaction Injection Moulding). Hennecke's CLEARRIM technology provides an innovative concept combined with the suitable machine technology for producing parts with high-quality and functional surfaces in a surprisingly efficient way. It focuses on the use of a thin polyurethane layer by which thermoplastic support elements or support elements with natural surfaces are effectively finished. This allows users to achieve scratchproof, resistant high-quality surface structures for decorative parts in the automotive and furniture industries or for countless other decor elements. CLEARRIM is also ideally suited for a combination with other processing techniques.
Since being introduced in 1995, the patented NOVAFLEX® technology has established itself as an industry standard in the continuous production of slabstock. Today, over 100 NOVAFLEX® systems are in use across the world. The technology replaces standard blowing agents such as CFCs or methylene chloride with CO2. It thus not only makes sense from an ecological point of view but also in terms of cost since CO2 is considerably less expensive than other blowing agents and in additon has a higher blowing effect. And there are no disadvantages when it comes to quality: NOVAFLEX® foams distinguish themselves through their particularly fine-celled and uniform pore structure. The result is excellent even with flexible foams that have a low density of 14-15 kg/m3.