16 Sept 2002
Live Mould Making Cell
The Live Mould Making Cell, Stand 4525 at Interplas 2002, sponsored by Mould Technology magazine, has been created to demonstrate just some of the automation solutions available to the mouldmaking industry. It is not any secret that over the last decade the level of global competition for the mouldmaking fraternity has significantly increased year on year, this level is now affecting many of these classic SME companies.
As there are 168 hours a week for any toolmaker, anywhere in the world, the investment into automation to utilise those ‘night’ hours can and will allow UK mouldmakers to start competing on a level playing field. Because the low labour costs, enjoyed by the global competition, no longer becomes a major factor. Combine this with the reduction of lead times then automation swiftly becomes an obvious answer.
Demonstrated within the Cell will be a Roboform 35P Diesink electrical discharge machine, provided by Charmilles UK. This has been integrated with a quick-change robot (QCRi), which allows up to 6,000 hours of uninterrupted machining per year. By integrating the QCRi with the 35P and tooling systems, the otherwise unproductive night time hours and weekends can be fully utilised to make EDM more productive and competitive. The system is further enhanced by an Auto-restart feature, which allows the QCRi to resume machining in the event of power failure during tool changeover.
As high speed machining is increasingly viewed as a complementary technology for EDM, to represent that sector will be a Mikron HSM 400. Developed for full automation, the integral pallet magazine and pallet changer can perform continuous 24/7 operation. The machine was designed for optimal ergonomic functionality, resulting in a modern unit, with a total footprint, including the pallet changer and a working envelope of 400 x 450 x 350mm, of only six cubic metres.
The single door allows access from three sides, for straightforward manual or crane loading unrestricted by the automatic workpiece handling system. A large window provides an unobstructed view and there is a single control unit for both machining and automation.
There are many levels of automation from the simple to the complex. So for those looking at automation for the first time, or for those that are ready to move onto the next stage, then technical staff will be available throughout the week of the show to discuss the options that are available.
Finally, all visitors to the stand will be able to pick up and take away a complimentary copy of Mould Technology magazine. Dedicated to the plastics injection market, Mould Technology is read by mouldmakers, injection moulders and the OEMs because it provides a wealth of information to help in the manufacture of polymer moulded products - from mould tool design through to ejecting and handling the ‘final’ plastic part.
Further information: Mr Scott Unwin, Mould Technology Magazine, PO Box 246, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 9FL, United Kingdom. Tel: 44 1737 243433 Fax: 44 1737 242122 email: media@mouldtechnology.co.uk
Reader enquiries
Reed Exhibitions
Oriel House, 26 The Quadrant
Richmond, Surrey TW9 1DL
United Kingdom
Notes for editors
Interplas 2002 is one of the world’s largest plastics and rubber exhibitions this year and takes place from 30th September - 4th October at the NEC, Birmingham, UK. It is organised by Reed Exhibitions, which has its headquarters in the UK and is a leading international trade show organiser with a worldwide network of sales offices and agents. It has a broad portfolio of 43 events, serving 49 industries, across 29 countries.
For editorial information contact:
Paulien Boumans
The European Marketing Group
Tel: +31 164 317 015
Fax. +31 164 317 039
E-mail: pboumans@emg.nl
Paulien Boumans