Euromap designs machine energy efficiency label

A European trade group has designed a new standardized label that shows the energy efficiency class of plastics processing machinery. Frankfurt, Germany-based Euromap, the technical body for European plastics and rubber machinery makers, said the labels will make it easier for customers to compare energy efficiency between the products of different machine manufacturers. Manufacturers will start to use the labels on Oct. 1.

"The development of a common and neutral label will enable manufacturers to present the efficiency classes of their machines transparent and comparable for customers," Euromap said.

The label can be used on machine types for which Euromap has published a recommendation regarding the energy efficiency class; these are currently injection molding machines (Euromap 60.1) and extrusion blow molding machines (Euromap 46.1). Euromap is conducting work on other types of machinery.

The organization said that use of the label is voluntary, and so differs from government-required energy efficiency labels on appliances such as refrigerators.

The label shows a triangle with the energy efficiency class number; the machine manufacturer and designation at the top; and, at the bottom, the Euromap standard and used test cycle if the recommendation allows more than one.

The standard size of the label is 148 mm-by-210 mm, but may be changed if the proportions are kept.