Designed to mold complex, net-shaped parts from ceramic or metal powders, this MIGL-371 low-pressure molding machine uses compressed air to mold parts instead of hydraulics, plungers, and screws. And it does so for at least 30 percent less than what a comparable-sized, traditional molding machine costs, according to the manufacturer. This pneumatically-operated machine, which is 3.5 by 4 by 8 ft, allows use of smaller molds, and leads to longer life since molds are not subject to high pressures.

The machine has a 22-liter stainless steel tank in which the ceramic or metal powder is mixed with a binder to create a fluid-like moldable resin. Most binders are thermoreactive, so the tank features an electrical heating system that is controlled by a microprocessor-based digital temperature controller. (The maximum operating temperature is 150C.) The material is then mixed by a double-blade planetary mixer, driven by a 1.5-hp motor that can achieve 80 rpm. Once the material is homogenous, the tank is injected with low-pressure compressed air (72.5 psi) and the material is forced through a hole at the bottom. The material then flows through a manifold and into the cavity of the mold.

The machine can run at speeds up to 750 cycles/hr, and enables 100 percent recycling of the mix. It runs on 220V a-c, 50/60 Hz, single phase.

Peltsman Corp.
Minneapolis, MN
Phone: (612) 546-7578
Fax: (612) 544-6077
http://www.pelcor.com