Battenfeld Fischer Blasformtechnik GmbH (PO Box 1163, D-53821 Troisdorf) has recently signed a collaboration agreement with Japanese machine manufacturer Tahara Machinery Ltd of Tokyo, where Tahara will act as the Battenfeld Fischer representative in Japan, and Battenfeld Fischer will utilize the know how of Tahara's 3D suction blow process in Europe and on the American continent. The Tahara 3D-suction blow process is based on the patent of Sumitomo Tools and offers a number of advantages for certain articles compared to other systems. It will be offered and supported by Battenfeld Fischer in addition to the existing 3D process with parison manipulation. The suction blow process offers a very cost effective solution for specific products in automotive and appliances. Standard Battenfeld Fischer blowmoulding machines will be modified to accomplish this process.

Tahara Machinery Ltd now acts as the Battenfeld representative in Japan for machines of above 20 t clamping force. The Japanese firm mainly manufactures blowmoulding machines of up to 15 t clamping force especially for the bottle market as well as 3D machines utilizing the suction blow process. Battenfeld Fischer has sold mainly medium and bigger sized blowmoulding machines for technical mouldings and the large container market.

Says Dietmar Weiß, Managing Director of Battenfeld Fischer: "World markets are getting closer, machines are more and more exchangeable. Only global players will remain on the world market successfully after the year 2000. Battenfeld Fischer has gained marketshare over the last years by acquisitions in Europe, Brasil and the United States. As a strategic consequence efforts in Asia are now going on."