The injection molding machines incorporate Industry 4.0 features to improve productivity, added LS Mtron. By integrating smart molding functionality acceleration performance is improved, plasticity is increased through adaptable screws with increased RPM, and clamp force monitoring is enabled through a tie-bar sensor. Automated clamping force calibration and an automatic zero adjustment mode function for spring molds are also supported. In addition, the One-E line utilizes a dual center press die structure to minimize mold deformation while boosting. As a result, mold face pressure distribution is improved by 33% on the fixed plate and the life of the mold is extended, according to LS Mtron.

Hungary’s MOL Group has developed a new grade of random copolymer polypropylene (PP) specifically tailored for extrusion blow molding (EBM) that reportedly offers excellent optical properties in terms of transparency and gloss.

Stephen has been with PlasticsToday and its preceding publications Modern Plastics and Injection Molding since 1992, throughout this time based in the Asia Pacific region, including stints in Japan, Australia, and his current location Singapore. His current beat focuses on automotive. Stephen is an avid folding bicycle rider, often taking his bike on overseas business trips, and is a proud dachshund owner.

What LS Mtron calls the first-ever application of AI technology to the injection molding process synthesizes AI into the process optimization of the injection molding machine, reducing production downtime. CSI4.0 is composed of AI Weight Control, which detects changes in the weight of the molded product through a weight meter linked to the injection machine, and the AI Molding Assistant, which reduces the time it takes to stabilize the initial process by adjusting process conditions through learning and emulating skilled molding experts, said the company.

Additionally, MOL notes there is no need to use a mirror polished mold finish to achieve excellent gloss and clarity. This makes it easier to process and can help avoid challenges with air entrapment. The improved rheology of the grade, combined with the presence of the Millad NX 8000E clarifier, serves to overcome the inherent shear stress created during extrusion. The result is excellent optics, while maintaining the standard mechanical properties.

Tipplen R 665 XClear works on all types of EBM machines, including single-station shuttle, double-station shuttle and long-stroke EBM machines. And it is suitable for use in all types of bottles –– from detergents to cosmetics to food applications.

MOL’s Tipplen R 665 XClear enables PP to replace more expensive, less functional, or difficult to process materials such as PET, PVC and polycarbonate in various blow molding applications. This can include replacing glass or PETG in such applications such as easy-squeeze bottles.

The easy-to-recycle resin performed well in drop tests at 4°C for refrigerated applications and, MOL notes, its optical properties will not change even when used with 30% regrind material that is being reused from virgin Tipplen R 665 XClear scrap.

Millad NX 8000E has been designed specifically to provide a step change in optical properties with standard Ziegler-Natta PP EBM resins. It eliminates the “milky” appearance normally associated with PP in blow molding, and enables PP to replace more expensive, less functional, or difficult to process materials.

Hungary’s MOL Group has developed a new grade of random copolymer polypropylene (PP) specifically tailored for extrusion blow molding (EBM) that reportedly offers excellent optical properties in terms of transparency and gloss. This development means PP can finally compete with PVC or PET when it comes to transparency in EBM applications according to MOL.

Milliken says it worked for several years with machine manufacturers, resin producers, converters and brand owners to optimize this EBM-specific additive, to ensure it delivered the desired properties without compromising transparency or machine production speeds.

The CSI4.0 — Connected and Smart Injection — function is a singular feature of One-E injection molding machines. It provides customers with flexibility and ease of implementation of digitally enhanced operations, including data collection, data analysis, and big data processing technology, said the company. An artificial intelligence (AI) stage applies the data from this process to help customers achieve precisely molded parts with excellent surface finishes.

Modified with Milliken Chemical’s Millad NX 8000E clarifier, MOL’s resulting random copolymer — Tipplen R 665 XClear PP resin — also offers a fresher look, very low haze, a low yellowness index, and tunable aesthetics.

LS Mtron Injection Molding Machines USA has expanded its One-E line of electric injection molding machines with 55-, 90-, 145-, and 440-ton machines. The high-speed line complements the complete range of standard all-electric machines, which range from 35 to 950 tons, said company President Peter Gardner.