The plastics processing lab in the Jack Burke Research and Economic Development Center at Penn State Behrend (Erie, PA) has taken delivery of a 101-ton Zhafir Zeres injection molding machine from Absolute Haitian. The consigned electric press with a 3.21-ounce shot size is equipped with integrated hydraulics for core pull, ejectors, carriage movement, and optional valve gates. The team at Penn State Behrend took delivery of the ZE 900/210 on July 9, according to a release from Penn State Behrend.

Special options on the ZE 900/210 include processing capability for MuCell microcellular foaming technology from Trexel and software for iMflux low-constant-pressure injection molding. The Penn State Behrend lab has consignment agreements with Trexel and iMflux for the deployment of these technologies.

The Zeres molding machine will be in operation in time for fall undergraduate classes, Plastics Training Academy classes, tutorials, and conferences. “We’re aware of the challenge the plastics industry faces in recruiting next-generation engineering talent. Providing access to current injection molding machine technology is one way we can help address this issue,” said Glenn Frohring, one of the owners of Absolute Haitian in Worcester, MA. “We have proudly maintained a relationship with Penn State Behrend going back to 2008, when we first consigned a machine to their program.”

The 10,000-square-foot lab’s comprehensive list of equipment includes injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, injection blow molding, thermoforming, compounding, and blown film technology. Currently there are 11 injection molding machines in use.

According to Brad Johnson, lecturer in engineering at Penn State Behrend, “Penn State Behrend’s B.S. in plastics engineering technology is the only plastics-specific undergraduate degree program in the Penn State system, and one of only four accredited plastics engineering technology programs in the United States. The college’s plastics processing lab is the largest and best-equipped undergraduate educational facility of its type.

“Graduate schools respect our students because they actually know how to operate an injection molding machine as well as other processing and testing equipment,” Johnson added. “Relationships with suppliers such as Absolute Haitian are what set our educational experience apart. We appreciate that they have enabled us to provide this unique experience.”