This little one is attracting a lot of attention
The new CX made quite a splash in its first appearance. At the Fakuma trade show in Friedrichshafen, Germany, KraussMaffei showed the wide range of applications for its new CX machine series with clamping forces up to 1,600 kn. a CX 35, a CX 80 hybrid and a CXV 160 delivered impressive displays of cost-effective manufacturing solutions that can be implemented in minimal space thanks to the twin-platen design.
For plastics processors, these compact dimensions are a major selling point, as they enable space savings of 10 to 20 percent compared to the competition. In addition, beneath the CX's cantilevered clamping unit, there is plenty of space for mold temperature controllers or demolding equipment. The space-saving concept extends into a mobile automation cell with 6-axis robot, which – supported on rollers – can be installed and removed on the side of the machine for maximum flexibility.
This way the robot can be used anywhere and, if necessary, can be transported to the next manufacturing cell and started there. A newly developed servomotor-controlled sprue picker with telescoping stroke is also ideal for buildings with low ceilings.
The new CX from KraussMaffei features high productivity and innovative detailed solutions with respect to energy efficiency, automation, space-saving design and zero-defect production |
New CX series features many optimizations
The CX not only saves space, it also saves operating costs. The intelligent storage management with disconnectable rechargeable battery saves ten percent on energy. The optional BluePower Vario drive offers even more; a variable-speed asynchronous motor reduces idling capacity and improves efficiency. This conserves up to 30 percent of energy compared to traditional hydraulic variants, particularly for applications with longer cycle times.
Speed in production also results in higher part output. The CX clamps about 15 percent faster than the predecessor model. This is achieved using new valve technology that works optimally with hydraulic switching concepts. Mold changes are fast, too. A bar-pulling function, either manual or automatic, makes access to the machine easier where necessary and a bayonet lock enables mold changes without screwing or adjusting. Just click, connect the mold to the machine via the extensive interfaces and start up the machine.
That's all it takes – you're ready for the first shot into the good parts box! The new Adaptive Process Control (APC) machine function makes this possible. Previously, injection molding companies sought to complete the start-up process in full with its fluctuations in melt viscosity, mold temperature and many other aspects before producing parts for the customer. APC eliminates the need for this safety buffer. The machine function measures the melt viscosity continuously and adjusts the injection parameters from shot to shot. This is important when the percentage of recycled material changes or when there are frequent interruptions in the manufacturing sequence, for example by inserting films for IML parts, but also for changes in the room's climate.
APC works like cruise control for injection molding processes, maintaining the set speed reliably whether driving uphill or downhill. The result is consistent component quality with extremely tight weight tolerances and little scrap. APC can be retrofitted for all existing Krauss-Maffei machines with MC5 and MC6 control system – it is not limited to the new CX.
- autor:
- DR. SABINE KOB, spoluautor: ANNA-MARIA MEYER