Carlsberg Bulgaria invests in KHS canning line
Image: KHS/Carlsberg
Carlsberg Bulgaria has taken a significant step forward by introducing its first in-house canning line, installed at the Blagoevgrad facility by KHS Group. Previously reliant on imported filled cans, the brewery now fills its beer locally, marking a milestone in modernising its production processes.
The new system is capable of filling up to 40,000 cans per hour for 500- and 550ml sizes, or 60,000 cans per hour for 330ml cans. Its compact design occupies less space than traditional PET and glass filling lines, while simpler operation and maintenance have contributed to a smooth production flow, with an overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) of 76%.
In a departure from conventional methods, the installation utilises the KHS Innopro KZE flash pasteuriser instead of a tunnel pasteuriser. This approach not only helps to preserve the beer’s taste through faster heat transfer but also reduces energy consumption and saves valuable floor space. The system’s efficiency is particularly beneficial in meeting the growing demand for canned beverages, which offer consumers the convenience of easy recycling.
To ensure long-term functionality, Carlsberg Bulgaria has secured a three-year service contract that includes predictive maintenance and remote fault resolution via the ReDiS system. Despite post-pandemic supply chain challenges, the installation was completed on schedule. This upgrade reinforces the company’s reputation as a leading domestic beer producer and underscores its commitment to innovation and sustainability in an increasingly competitive market.
