KraussMaffei with automated GX production cell at Feiplastic 2013

At the trade show, a GX 550-3000 manufactured a housing for the air conditioning, a classic automotive component. The entire production cell demonstrated high productivity and innovative detailed solutions for flexibility and production intelligence. “The precise injection and plasticising unit makes the GX series predestined for the process-stable production of sophisticated parts”, explained Frank Peters, Vice President of Sales at KraussMaffei. The high shot weight constancy of less than +/-0.1 % ensures reliable production, even with the highest possible demands. Productivity is therefore maintained. As the fastest dual platen machine on the market, the GX offers the shortest travel times and maximum productivity, says the company. Generous mould installation dimensions increase flexibility with regard to the moulds that can be used. The smooth-running mechanics are said to reduce traction resistance by up to 80 % and ensure, together with the hydraulic concept designed for minimum flow losses, maximum energy efficiency.

Automatic production takes place in a fully integrated production cell with an LRX 250 linear robot that is fitted with the handheld pendant of the new MC6 control system. “The robot is not only integrated in the control system but also fully integrated mechanically. The detailed tuning of the GX and robot results in a production cell cut from the same cloth,” said Peters. The “SplitScreen” function of the MC6 allows the operator to see control system pages that are currently required at a glance. Setting values and process data can be compared directly without jumping back and forward between screen pages. This simplifies operation, shortens the start-up and service procedures and leads to higher operating safety with fewer interruptions in production.

The GX is also equipped with numerous BluePower modules to guarantee maximum energy efficiency at higher productivity. According to the company, the electric screw drive makes efficient parallel plasticising possible, the servo pump drive further reduces power consumption and insulating sleeves at the barrel additionally reduce heat losses of the plasticising unit. The result: Low power consumption with short cycle times for high productivity.

According to KraussMaffei, all its products comply with the safety standard RN 12, which has been newly introduced in Brazil. “Our machines and plants are already delivered in compliance with the new RN 12,” said Klaus Jell, manager of the Brazilian subsidiary of the KraussMaffei Group. The company says it was thus one of the first importers whose products complied with the new standard.