Sacmi has created a new-concept press for the injection molding of PET preforms.

Fully designed and developed by Sacmi, the IPS is currently available in a 48-cavity version with a clamping force of 220 tons, while the 300-ton model housing 72-cavities is currently under development.

Sacmi will showcase the IPS, along with the CCM, its compression machine for cap-making at Plast 2012, the international plastic and rubber fair, (Milan, Italy; May 8-12).

The new IPS injection preform system is designed to offer flexibility with fast format changeover, along with energy savings and a compact footprint, the company stated.

During the ejection phase, a robot, fully integrated on the machine, picks up the preforms with a 3-station gripper and allows post-cooling prior to unloading, which can help prevent damage that can occur when preforms are handled before they've fully cooled.

Another key feature is the new linear motor that drives the gripper, allowing the recovery of braking energy during the deceleration phase.

The toggle system and mobile platen that make up the mold-clamping unit are hydraulically controlled and have been designed using FEM structural analysis to optimize mechanical inertia.

The injection unit consists of a cylinder with a pelletizing screw, guided by an electric motor, and a shooting pot, controlled by a servo-valve. Another key characteristic of the new IPS is its flexibility, the overall time needed for mechanical changeover of the mold, including automatic plate offloading, is less than an hour.

For the preform ejection system, Sacmi's designers opted for two hydraulic cylinders that optimize ejection force and ensure considerable energy savings, the company stated. The pump-controlled cooling system, fitted directly on the rear of the machine, features control software that ensures consistent water temperature at every stage of the process.

The model will be on show and fully operational throughout the Plast fair and will be equipped with a Sacmi-made mold.