(BASF) -- In a special show at the Fakuma 2011, material producer BASF and machine manufacturer Arburg will present the multi-faceted subject of energy efficiency. Visitors to the East Foyer will be shown measures for increasing energy efficiency in injection molding throughout the entire value-added chain and beyond, thereby reducing unit costs. Using a specially-optimised plastic and the appropriate machine technology, the two companies will demonstrate how new developments can work together to save energy.
On an exhibition area of 100 square metres, the entire injection molding process will be analysed in detail in terms of energy-efficiency: from product design to production planning. As a clear practical example, comparative production with two different plastics will show how energy efficiency can be enhanced by the right choice of material. For this purpose, an electric Arburg Allrounder 370 E will produce test parts from a standard plastic and from a material that was specially improved in terms of its flow characteristics.
The ⌠energy measurement function of the Selogica machine control system registers the energy requirement of the relevant process. The comparison makes clear how an energy-optimised machine, together with a plastic with improved flow characteristics, can contribute to significant energy savings in the injection molding process. Depending on the size of the components and their geometry, the lower processing temperatures and shorter cycle times result in greater energy efficiency, thus reducing unit costs.
MRC