KRAUSS-MAFFEI
Polyurethanes: A new way to make thin-walled parts / Productivity boost in PU processing
Krauss-Maffei Kunststofftechnik GmbH (D-80997 Munich; www.krauss-maffei.de) has developed a successful new system for the production of large-area, thin-walled parts in an enhanced RRIM process (reaction injection moulding of materials reinforced with glass-fibre or mineral filler). The innovative force of the new system derives from the combination of expertise in reaction processes with know-how accumulated through engineering injection moulding machinery. The system combines a Krauss-Maffei “Comet” piston-metering reaction machine with clamp technology from the company´s range of injection moulding machinery.
The relatively large area of the part and the pressure exerted by the reaction mix necessitate a clamp force of 5000 kN (500 t). Krauss-Maffei supplies this with a massive 2-platen clamp unit, a modified version of a standard injection clamp unit. The horizontal movement of the mould halves facilitates a high degree of automation. The parts are removed by a robot, transferred to a punch and then to a conveyor system for transport to the assembly line. A second robot cleans the mould and sprays it with release agent between shots.
The first systems of this type were engineered to run moulds producing vehicle door sills. The first customer to take delivery of these new RRIM systems was Dynamit Nobel (D-36391 Sterbfritz; www.dynamit-nobel.com), where the systems went into full production a few weeks ago.
Krauss-Maffei´s new “Star Trac” overhead conveyor system can optimize the productivity of reaction lines running moulds with different cycle times. “Star Trac” is a highly flexible system. It allows moulds with slower cycle times to be temporarily sidelined and minimizes whole-line stoppages for mould changing. A “Star Trac” installation can be planned to transport any number of mould carriers, it can be laid out to fit the available space and expanded as required. As an overhead system, “Star Trac” leaves the floor area free of machinery, simplifying cleaning. Processors also have the option of using the standalone mould carriers in stationary production systems. No hydraulic connections are required, because all functions are electrically or pneumatically driven.
The relatively large area of the part and the pressure exerted by the reaction mix necessitate a clamp force of 5000 kN (500 t). Krauss-Maffei supplies this with a massive 2-platen clamp unit, a modified version of a standard injection clamp unit. The horizontal movement of the mould halves facilitates a high degree of automation. The parts are removed by a robot, transferred to a punch and then to a conveyor system for transport to the assembly line. A second robot cleans the mould and sprays it with release agent between shots.
The first systems of this type were engineered to run moulds producing vehicle door sills. The first customer to take delivery of these new RRIM systems was Dynamit Nobel (D-36391 Sterbfritz; www.dynamit-nobel.com), where the systems went into full production a few weeks ago.
Krauss-Maffei´s new “Star Trac” overhead conveyor system can optimize the productivity of reaction lines running moulds with different cycle times. “Star Trac” is a highly flexible system. It allows moulds with slower cycle times to be temporarily sidelined and minimizes whole-line stoppages for mould changing. A “Star Trac” installation can be planned to transport any number of mould carriers, it can be laid out to fit the available space and expanded as required. As an overhead system, “Star Trac” leaves the floor area free of machinery, simplifying cleaning. Processors also have the option of using the standalone mould carriers in stationary production systems. No hydraulic connections are required, because all functions are electrically or pneumatically driven.
06.12.2001 Plasteurope.com [16320]
Published on 06.12.2001