The combination of rotary table machine and automated parts handling produces a high-end application that is extremely attractive for many industries. At Chinaplas 2024, in Shanghai, China, scheduled for April 23 through April 26, a turnkey system based around an Allrounder 1600 T will attract the attention of interested parties from the mobility sector in particular. An upstream stamping unit with conveyor system is integrated in the production cell. Parts handling is performed by a six-axis robotic system.

The Allrounder T vertical injection molding machines from Arburg are ideal for the production ofSource: Arburg challenging molded parts. Their servo-electric three-station rotary table can perform various rotary sequences. It has no pillars, so as not to restrict the free space for molds and media connections.

Overmolding of metal inserts

The exhibit, an Allrounder 1600 T, features a rotary table with a diameter of 1,600 millimeters and 2,000 kN of clamping force. The product, a complex fluid distributor, contains different metal inserts, which are overmolded with 35% glass-fiber reinforced PBT. A 4-cavity mold from Concraft produces four finished parts in a cycle time of around 60 seconds. The shot weight is 74.5 grams.

Complex: Automation with two robotic systems

The automation system provides three different types of inserts in a tray via a three-axis micro-robot. Then a six-axis robot with Concraft grippers and a load of 10 kg picks up a total of twelve inserts from this tray, and places them in the four cavities of the mold. After each injection process, it removes both the sprue and the finished parts.

The turnkey system has been customized with a stamping unit with stamping line conveyor system, also from local partner Concraft. There, the inserts are first stamped out and have the pins separated, before they are placed in the mold and overmolded. Implementation of the Kuka six-axis robot and the total system sequence was handled in the Arburg Technology Factory (ATF) in Pinghu.

Practical: Features of the Allrounder rotary table machine

The electric drive together with precision position system ensures the high accuracy of the system and thus reliably protects the mold against damage and wear. Simultaneous insertion, overmolding and removal ensure short cycles.

The large selection of options for a flexible configuration is as advantageous as the high safety standard, which is above the CE standard. Particularly in challenging areas like medicine or mobility, the Allrounder T provides precise results — also thanks to the pressure accumulator and lots of smart features on the Selogica control system that simplify setup and operation of the systems.