Process monitoring system for injection moulding

Edited by the Processingtalk editorial team Apr 3, 2006

Building on its long experience of using in-cavity pressure profiles to monitor and control the injection moulding process, Kistler Instruments has developed CoMo Injection

Building on its long experience of using in-cavity pressure profiles to monitor and control the injection moulding process, Kistler Instruments has developed CoMo Injection, a totally new system that promises a major step forwards towards true "zero defect" production.

A compact all-in-one device, CoMo Injection incorporates eight signal amplifiers to be used for process optimisation, monitoring and documentation, including a fully integrated electronics and software package.

The integral web server allows set-up and display of process parameters using a standard web browser on a PC or laptop or the optional, dedicated touch screen monitor.

An Ethernet interface allows process data to be communicated to a production planning and control or ERM system and downloaded to any location via the Internet.

To simplify installation, CoMo Injection uses an innovative multi-channel connection system based on the well-proven single-wire technique to connect to the cavity pressure sensors.

This allows up to eight cavity pressure sensors to be connected to the CoMo Injection system using a single cable and plug.

This Multi-Channel Cable Technology solution reduces set-up times and minimises the risk of connection errors.

During a production run, all process data are continuously recorded and can be stored for both process analysis and quality assurance monitoring, including the production of relevant documentation.

In addition to production monitoring and control of the injection process based on cavity pressure, CoMo Injection provides one "outputs valid" signal for synchronising with the good part/bad part separation system, the handling device or the machine input for external signals.

Eight good part / bad part channels can be used to signal to the downstream device whether the active shot complies with the quality requirements (good part) or not (bad part).

These eight channels can also be reconfigured for deployment as real-time outputs to support highly complex moulding processes.

Compared with other injection moulding process-monitoring tools, CoMo Injection offers a highly cost-effective method of minimising product rejects and maximising productivity and product quality, whilst reducing waste.