Rep International of Corbas, France, which has been making rubber injection machines since 1965, used the K?98 venue to present its new G8 Control. Jean-Claude Dente, who is responsible for marketing at Rep, said this evolution in the company?s control systems was driven by users who wanted more simplified controls, more graphic displays, simpler maintenance and diagnostic aids, and the ability to evaluate the machine at any time, including the middle of a cycle. The interface of the G8 can be configured according to the options selected on the press, and the control page can be customized with just those parameters the operator needs to monitor during production. The diagnostic help system is customizable, and there is complete traceability, including graphic display of changes in control variables and the sequential program.

There is a network function with a Windows NT base that can service up to 30 machines and can link machines with the older G6 and G7 controls. Rep has initially put the G8 on its three most popular vertical machines: 160, 260, and 400 tons. Next year, it will add the G8 to its other verticals (25 to 800 tons) and then to its horizontal machines (100 to 260 tons). The G8 machines also have been redesigned so the full machine panel opens like a door, giving complete access to all parts for mold change and maintenance. Pricing information was not provided.

Rep International
Corbas, Lyon, France
Phone: 33 (4) 72 21 53 53
Fax: 33 (4) 72 51 22 35