Automatic Optimization of Mold Temperature Control | Plastics Technology

Wittmann’s Expert MouldTemp assistance system applies continuous flow monitoring of all cooling channels to recognize and compensate for disturbances and flow rate fluctuations.

Wittmann has introduced the Expert MouldTemp assistance system to optimize temperature control, adding the technology to its package of injection molding machines plus temperature control systems. Wittmann says the new assistance concept adjusts temperatures precisely to the individual application, improving part quality and saving energy.

The automatic optimization is made possible by the intelligent Flowcon plus flow controller. Applying wear-free flow measurement, it provides continuous flow monitoring of all cooling channels, recognizing disturbances such as blocked cooling channels and flow rate fluctuations, and compensating automatically and accurately via step motors and proportional valves.

In this display at Wittmann’s technical center, the Expert MouldTemp assistance system has only been activated on the right-hand mold half, with the thermographic image showing homogeneous heat distribution and considerably faster heating. Source: Wittmann

In terms of benefits, Wittmann says machine startup time is reduced, and energy consumption can be lowered during the heat-up phase by more than 70%. The company notes that with manual controls, production quality is more impacted because fluctuations in process conditions seldom show visible effects immediately. In the interim, a large number of rejects can be produced before machine operators pinpoint the problem and readjust the process parameters.

Expert MouldTemp will be offered in packages together with MacroPower injection molding machines. Specifically, the technology will initially be available for three clamping force sizes: 500, 850 and 1,l100 tons. Expert MouldTemp is also available as a stand-alone unit that can be combined with different types of existing injection molding machines.

To fully exploit the optimization potential, Wittmann’s own Tempro plus D series temperature controllers are integrated into the production cell. Applying measurement readings calculated by Flowcon plus, the pump output of the temperature controllers can be adjusted precisely to the requirements of the application via frequency control. As a result, the energy consumption is significantly reduced and the pump’s service life is lengthened as well.

The MacroPower’s Unilog B8 system provides central operation of temperature control. Wittmann says the intuitive user interface ensures consistently high quality can be achieved even without specialized staff. Wittmann 4.0 integration enables the temperature control data to be saved and evaluated along with the machine parameters for traceability and further process optimization. The Expert MouldTemp is available for demonstrations and testing by customers at Wittmann’s locations in Germany (Nuremberg and Meinerzhagen).

Engel’s new eco-flomo temperature control system continuously monitors injection mold cooling and temperature control circuits, displaying pressure, temperature and flow rate values.

For the most part, subsidiary company names will remain, with slight modifications meant to enhance the Group’s identity.

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