The decision to introduce magnetic clamping technology from Roemheld, enabled Koziol, a German-based manufacturer of high-quality plastic design products, to extend the running time of eleven injection moulding machines by many hours.
Roemheld offers two different magnetic clamping systems, each designed to meet specific needs. M-TECS 210 magnetic clamping elements are designed for high temperatures of up to 240°C, for use in rubber and TS plastic processing, die casting, production of O-rings and moulded rubber parts. M-TECS 130, the version chosen by Koziol, is a magnetic clamping system for use in TS processing in large component manufacturing, on sample machines and for small series, designed for temperatures of up to 130°C. This version is optionally available with integral heating and is supplied in sizes adapted to customers' needs.
Andreas Creutz, Koziol Works Manager, said: "In the past, we clamped moulds using eight clamping claws, but this was uncomfortable, expensive and slow". Koziol decided in favour of Roemheld magnetic clamping technology as, unlike the magnetic clamping plates offered by competitors, they are equipped with long pole magnets instead of square pole magnets, thus enabling the safe clamping of very small moulds without additional aids.
"The ergonomy is excellent and the systems are very safe,” said Mr Creutz, explaining how magnetic clamping systems make work easier for the operators, who are delighted to work with the new clamping technology. For him, as Works Manager, high precision, universal usability, low mould wear and economic efficiency are all critical features.
“Shorter set-up times lead to an extension of the machine running times and thus to faster return on investment" explains Bill Neal, Managing Director of Roemheld (UK). “For example: with up to five mould changes in each of the 3 shifts and 250 working days a year a maximum of 3,750 set-up operations are required which can be reduced, compared to the use of clamping claws, from ten to two minutes. This results in potential savings of 30,000 minutes per year, which means 500 hours during which the machines are producing instead of standing idle. “
To find out more about Roemheld’s range of workholding solutions, visit www.roemheld.co.uk or telephone 0121 453 1414.
