Beyond sealing:
This is where the future of tank manufacturing starts.
Fuel Tanks
Plastic Fuel Tanks – Engineered for Precision, Safety, and Sustainable Mobility
Back in 1973, Kautex pioneered the world’s first serial production of blow-molded plastic fuel tanks — and we’ve been setting industry standards ever since. Today, our machines form the backbone of leading production lines for fuel tank systems worldwide – across compact cars, commercial vehicles, and hybrid SUVs.
Our extrusion blow molding systems meet the most demanding requirements for emission control, complex part geometries, lightweight design, and long-term durability. Especially in light of strict regulations such as Euro 6 and China 6, the plastic fuel tank remains a mission-critical component in modern automotive engineering.
Kautex enables future-ready production with advanced technologies like 7-layer coextrusion, the patented C3LS® process for ultra-low emissions, and suction blow molding for intricate 3D shapes. Key features like filler necks, baffles, or sensor holders can be integrated directly into the part – optimizing both function and production.
Whether you’re a Tier-1 supplier or an OEM, Kautex offers a holistic system approach: combining machine technology, simulation, materials expertise, automation, and service from one source. Together, we deliver reliable and scalable tank solutions – engineered for maximum efficiency, on the road and on the production floor.
Your Benefits with Kautex
Discover how Kautex combines innovation, flexibility, and global support to give you a competitive edge in tomorrow’s manufacturing landscape.
Our machines are ready for tomorrow’s emission targets – featuring the only OEM-independent solution for Euro 6, China 6, and beyond.
Integrate baffles, sensors, and complex geometries directly into the blow molding process – reducing steps and boosting efficiency.
With precision control (e.g. PWDS), real-time monitoring, and robust automation, our machines deliver repeatable quality with minimal waste.
Kautex systems like KBS adapt to your needs – whether you're changing formats, materials, or compliance requirements.
From simulation and prototyping to service and support – we deliver everything from one source. Backed by a worldwide network that keeps your line running.
Our Machines for Your Fuel Tank Production.
C3LS
Kautex’s C3LS® (Closed-Loop Component Clean Line System) is the only OEM-independent blow molding technology on the market that fully complies with Euro 6 / China 6 emission regulations — and it’s already proven in mass production across the U.S. and Asia.
Unlike proprietary systems, C3LS® gives full process ownership to OEMs and Tier-1s. It’s compatible with existing single- or double-station Kautex machines and offers ultrafast changeovers — format switches in just 4 hours thanks to industrial robot-based integration.
Key Benefits at a Glance:
- Compliance with Euro 6 / China 6 VOC and HC limits
- Reduced permeation by placing sensitive components (e.g., rollover valves) inside the tank
- In-mold deflashing for consistent seam quality, minimal rework
- Robot-based automation ensures repeatability and speed
- Real-time quality control via setpoint/actual value comparison
- Hybrid-ready — suitable for higher pressure tanks (e.g., PHEV or MHEV)
And it’s flexible by design: C3LS® machines can be switched back to standard tank production at any time – future-proofing your investment.
Why C3LS® is still a game-changer:
With global regulations tightening, emission control is no longer optional. C3LS® helps you meet today’s standards – and tomorrow’s – while lowering production costs and material use. It’s the smart, scalable solution for fuel tank manufacturing in an evolving automotive landscape.
Fuel Tank Know-How
With over 40 years of tank-building experience, we combine material expertise, rheology simulation, and advanced control systems — ensuring process stability, short cycles, and high repeatability.
Our Key Technologies
- C3LS® process: For Euro 6 / China 6-compliant, low-permeation fuel tank production – retrofit-capable
- 7-layer coextrusion: For enhanced barrier protection and chemical resistance
- Suction blow molding (SeCo, RWDS): For seamless, complex tank geometries
- In-mold deflashing & part integration: Minimizes rework and maximizes process stability
- Simulation & rheology: Ensures ideal wall thickness and material efficiency
Our Machines
for your Production
The KBS series is built to deliver unmatched power and versatility in blow molding. From plastic fuel tanks to kayaks or hydrogen liners the KBS range offers powerful, efficient, and reliable solutions for complex and large and smaller-volume plastic parts.
C3LS Retrofit
Fast. Economical. Reliable.
Your are already producing fuel tanks on a Kautex machine? Great!
Upgrade to C3LS process and adopt to cope with the latest standards. Or optimize your processes with improved automation.
Your direct contact
Ready to redefine fuel tank manufacturing?
Our specialists are happy to help you explore the best solution for your application. Download our brochure for technical specifications, configuration options, and success factors behind efficient fuel tank production.
