COMPACT, LIGHTWEIGHT ACTUATORS FOR THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY

For generations, machine builders chose hydraulic cylinders for injection molding applications. However, today, when it comes to creating precise, clean actuation, electromechanical actuators are becoming much more popular. Exlar’s GSX, GTX, and TTX actuators offer a compact, robust, precise electromechanical actuator ideal for core pulling, mold locks, or gate valve applications within plastic injection machines. 

Producing higher quality parts as fast as possible is what drives profitability.  In a typical molding machine, after the molded product is complete, the mold still has to be cycled, the core removed, the product ejected; each step requiring motion in the machine.  The slow response of hydraulic systems extends the molding process time, reducing production throughput.  Switching to an electric solution allows these processes to run faster and be programmed to run in parallel, further reducing cycle time. 

Introducing electric actuators can increase processing speed over hydraulic cylinders, but also can improve process repeatability and control.  Increased control of the actuation system reduces variation in the molding process, therefore improving part quality while reducing additional quality checks and unnecessary scrap. 

Other benefits of using Exlar actuators in plastics industry applications include:

• Longer Tool Life – Electric actuators can be programmed to decelerate just before the molds close together, preventing high-energy impacts seen with hydraulics that can damage tooling
• Increased Flexibility – Make different parts on the same machine with a simple tool change and basic modification to the programmable motion profile
• Increased Efficiency – Exlar customers in the molding industry have reported energy savings greater than 50% when switching from hydraulic systems
• Improved Safety – Elimination of hydraulic oil prevents slippery spills on the factory floor
• Less Environmental Impact –Electromechanical actuators reduce potential health and safety risks caused by hydraulic fluid leaks as well as reducing noise levels in the workplace
• Reduced Setup and Changeover Times – Shorter machine commissioning times are achieved with improved set-up precision and changeovers only require a simple program change

Related Applications

Injection Moulding - Injecting molten material into molds quickly and cleanly has evolved over years. Today’s manufacturing processes require speed and repeatability with as little downtime as possible. Exlar electromechanical actuators have the power density and precision to produce consistent and high volume plastic parts. 

Core Pull - Core pull allows a void to be put in the product parallel to the clamp. While the camps are held tight with Exlar actuators, pins create the hollow. Once the molten plastic is poured the core or pins are pulled and the mold opens. 

Locking Molds into Place - A movable holder plate carries out the mold closing/opening operation on the toggle station pictured here. An Exlar electric actuator provides the smooth and efficient force needed.

Opening and Closing of Gate Valves - Better control over the opening and closing of the gate valve helps to eliminate imperfections in your part. An electromechanical actuator from Exlar allows you to adjust the speed and stroke to effectively control the flow of molten plastics. 

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