Robot offers economical IML solution

Wittmann introduced a new solution for inmold labeling (IML), which offers the highest efficiency and at the same time the lowest capital cost, according to the company. The IML system is based on the new W717 robot and is designed for molding machines ranging from 90 to 275 tons clamp force and molding cycles of 5 seconds or more. The system provides automatic insertion of labels into one- and two-cavity molds and free drop of the finished parts.

The model W717 robot comes equipped as standard with the powerful and proven R7 CNC robot control system allowing any arbitrary teach program sequence and easy setup of the entire system.

The new W717 robot is mechanically based on Wittmann’s W711 robot and features a fixed kick-stroke frame to prevent interference with machine hoppers and blenders on small molding machines. The new robot is also equipped with a servo-driven vertical arm for up to 47.2 inches (1200 mm) of stroke. The horizontal axis can be manually adjusted to slide the entire robot to the side for safe and easy mold changes, or to compensate for any positional modifications after mold change. The kick-stroke is pneumatically driven and adjustable to allow for different mold thicknesses.

The label magazine is mounted on the kick-stroke frame and provides a buffer of up to one hour of production. The end-plate of the label magazine is spring loaded for consistent pressure and thus positive pickup of the labels by the robot EOAT (end-of-arm-tooling). At the same time, the magazine allows for convenient horizontal loading of new labels by the operator. The EOAT houses the electrostatic charger, which consistently charges the labels prior to the release and handover in the mold. The maximum label dimension is 8 x 8 inches (200 x 200 mm).

The changeover between different label designs can be easily accomplished by simply changing the label magazine and tooling, resulting in fast amortization of the system over a variety of products. As a full package provider, Wittmann can supply the W717 IML system with the appropriate molds, designed, says the firm, for short cycle times and highest reliability.

Wittmann Battenfeld Inc., Torrington, CT, U.S.A.; +1-860-496-9603; www.wittmann-ct.com