Strategic partnership delivers superior mould change technology

The leading international industrial and mechatronics solution provider, Stäubli, headquartered in Switzerland, with strong expertise in Quick Mould Change solutions, and MAG-Autoblok Tecnomagnete, the long established Italian magnetic work holding and clamping expert, have recently announced a strategic partnership. This new alliance will allow the two companies to combine their magnetic clamping expertise to jointly develop a new generation, high-performance range of magnetic clamping solutions for quick mould change applications within the plastics injection moulding sector.

As one of the leading manufacturers of quick connector systems, Stäubli covers connection needs for all types of fluids, gases, and electrical power, supporting the requirements of multiple industry sectors. With unique expertise in the plastics industry, Stäubli Fluid Connectors designs, manufactures and distributes globally, a wide range of quick mould change solutions from mould loading and clamping to energy connection and robotic systems. Stäubli solutions are designed to enhance both process efficiencies and operator safety, and are recognised internationally for their quality, reliability, and performance. MAG-Autoblok Tecnomagnete, based in Lainate Italy, close to Milan, is a world-leader in the design, development, and manufacture of magnetic work holding and clamping solutions for a range of manufacturing sectors. In 45 years of business activity the company’s patented permanent electro-magnetic technology has become a mainstay of a number of industries, including the plastic injection moulding sector.

Stäubli and MAG-Autoblok Tecnomagnete are both already recognised as leading suppliers of magnetic mould clamping solutions to the plastics sector. By combining Stäubli’s state of the art control and precision force measurement technology, with the compact design and robustness of MAG-Autoblok Tecnomagnete magnetic platens, the new generation product range will deliver a unique solution which encompasses the technological and application expertise of both companies. Users will subsequently benefit from ongoing innovation and research, which addresses not only the needs of today, but also future requirements. Furthermore, in a market where project timescales are often compressed, the unrivalled manufacturing capacity, resulting from the combined resources of both partners, will provide the additional benefit of optimized lead times for end customers. Taking full benefit from both organizations, MAG-Autoblok Tecnomagnete will be responsible for the manufacturing of the new generation of magnetic clamping systems, which will be marketed and serviced through Stäubli’s direct sales and customer support operations across four continents. The new generation technology resulting from this long-term partnership will build upon the current success and growth of magnetic clamping systems within the plastic sector. Increasing numbers of injection moulders are turning to magnetic clamping systems to take advantage of the enhanced flexibility, functionality, and safety which the technology delivers. Furthermore, magnetic clamping systems can play a key role as part of a SMED (Single Minute Exchange of Die) strategy and are compatible with the principles of Industry 4.0. The increased performance and capability of these new generation systems address the ongoing demands for process and production enhancements and efficiencies within the plastics sector.

Stäubli’s Etienne Lépeule, Executive President Stäubli Fluid Connectors, commented: “We are delighted to partner with MAG-Autoblok Tecnomagnete as our companies share strong values, with innovation in our DNA. As the company historically responsible for establishing the key principles of magnetic clamping technology, through a series of innovations and patents, their magnetic expertise and manufacturing capability will serve our partnership well, not only in the development of this new product range, but also in delivering better value for customers”.

Carlo Munaretto, CEO MAG-Autoblok Tecnomagnete, said: “Stäubli’s expertise in mould clamping control technology and software will make it possible for the new systems to deliver the highest levels of performance and safety for both existing and new customers. Furthermore, Stäubli’s extensive network of facilities and local support structure, will deliver world class customer support and service. We are delighted to be partnering with a company of Stäubli’s pedigree”.

The new generation systems were showcased by Stäubli at the forthcoming K Show, the number one international event for the plastics sector, which took place in Düsseldorf Germany between the 19th and 26th of October.