Arburg highly satisfied with outcome of IRC 2009 trade fair

In the context of the International Rubber Conference (IRC) trade fair, Arburg demonstrated its comprehensive competence in the field of multi-component injection moulding. An elastomer/thermoplastics application was presented for this purpose. The exhibit comprised an automation solution built around an energy-efficient electric Allrounder 470 A with two horizontal injection units in an L-configuration and a vertically-operating Multilift V robotic system.

The Arburg team welcomed a broad range of visitors to its exhibition stand: These visitors came from a variety of industries, from companies of different sizes, as well as from abroad. They were extremely interested in machine technology for elastomer processing and in automation solutions, so that a large number of specific discussions were held.

The automatic production of a two-component part on an electric Allrounder 470 A was demonstrated. "By showing this innovative application at the IRC 2009, we not only had the opportunity to impress as a manufacturer of high-end injection moulding machines, but also to demonstrate our expertise in the areas of multi-component technology, elastomer processing and automation, as well as our ability to provide comprehensive advice on applications technology," said Eberhard Lutz, Arburg Sales Director Germany, describing the company's trade fair stand.

Automated elastomer/thermoplastics application

The electric Allrounder 470 A with a clamping force of 1,000 kN offered an impressive demonstration of how two-component moulded parts made from thermoplastic and elastomer can be produced in a precise, energy-efficient manner. High reproducibility and part quality are ensured by the excellent positioning accuracy of the electric movement axes of the Allrounder A.

Thanks to the precision of the axis movements, synchronous entry into the mould can be performed quickly and precisely, optimising cycle times. A further advantage of the electric Alldrive machines is their low energy consumption. Accordingly, they all bear the Arburg "e²" energy-efficiency label.

In addition to the two size 400 and 170 injection units in an L-configuration, the exhibit was also equipped for elastomer processing and included a robotic system. The Multilift V enters the mould vertically, sets down the pre-moulded parts in the 1-plus-1-cavity mould, removes the finished parts and sets them down on a conveyor belt. The complete integration of the robotic system in the Selogica machine control system means that the entire process is particularly easy and convenient to program.

Increasing demand for automation solutions

The response to the Arburg trade fair stand and to the exhibit were very positive, according to Eberhard Lutz's summary of the four-day exhibition: "Automation solutions with integrated production steps for the cost-efficient production of complex parts have become a permanent feature in the field of injection moulding. In Nuremberg, we proved the reliability of our control of the entire process chain in the area of highly-automated elastomer/thermoplastic processing. Our specialist knowledge and many years of experience in machine, control and robotic system technology, as well as our range of application technology consultation services, make us a competent partner for our customers."