Smart Molding International 1-2025

13 www.smart-molding.com molding outlook SACMI compression press molds are particularly appreciated for their durability and capacity to maintain high production standards, even in the harshest manufacturing environments. Similarly, injection press molds are designed to ensure excellent, long-lasting dimensional stability and precision. Outstanding thermal efficiency with COOL+ SACMI's COOL+ system is revolutionizing thermal control of molds, on both compression and injection presses. COOL+ uses a pioneering cooling system that ensures excellent heat dissipation, improving the quality of the finished product and significantly reducing cycle times. • Compression press molds: COOL+ lets you significantly lower the temperature of the produced cap, minimizing dimensional shrinkage. This results in a shorter cycle time, a significant increase in productivity and a dimensional stability that ensures secure application on the bottle. • Injection press molds: COOL+ injection molds offer precise, reliable and effective thermal control. COOL+ post- cooling technology optimizes process times, enhances the dimensional stability of the preforms and integrates smoothly with the PVS156 sample inspection system, incorporated inside the press itself: a feature that only SACMI offers, thanks to its unmatched understanding of production processes and preform quality control. Pioneering hot runner solutions driving the future of automotive trends Oerlikon HRSflow brings comp-rehensive expertise in managing In-mold color technology across various materials Color in the automotive industry goes beyond aesthetics; it can shape consumer behavior, strengthen brand identity, and even influence vehicle purchasing decisions. As plastic part design continues to evolve and sustainability becomes an increasing priority, the challenges in injection molding grow. In response, In-mold color technology offers a cost-effective and high-quality solution, providing a brilliant and durable finish without the added costs or environmental impact of traditional painting methods. This advanced manufacturing technique incorporates pre- colored plastic resins directly into the injection molding process. Oerlikon HRSflow brings comprehensive expertise in managing In-mold color technology across various materials such as PP, TPO ABS and PC-ABS. The optimized thermal profile of the channels together with an optimized nozzle and tip geometry ensure a smooth, direct injection on the part, producing finished components in the desired color and appearance in just one step. With this approach, secondary processes like painting or plating are eliminated, speeding up production and making parts easier to recycle. Additionally, scrap is significantly reduced, lowering both the overall cost of production and the environmental impact. This technology is versatile and can be applied across a wide range of automotive applications, such as exterior parts (i.e. bumper, wheel arch, spoiler…) as well as internal one (IP, central console, door panel). An innovative look for automotive front panels At Fakuma 2024, Oerlikon HRSflow unveiled the newly designed Mercedes EQB Star Panel. Featuring a high-gloss black surface decorated with a star pattern, this fresh design aligns perfectly with the future needs of the automotive industry. The molded part, weighing 920 g andmeasuring 2.5mm in thickness, is crafted from PC/ABS BayblendT65 xf and produced using Oerlikon HRSflow's sequential hot runner system, consisting of 1 drop Ga and 6 drops Ha series. This optimal hot runner solution guarantees the component's impeccable appearance, meeting the rigorous standards of the vehicle's advanced features. Furthermore, the hot runner system includes specialized gate inserts that minimize maintenance and enhance efficiency, boosting overall productivity. The project was conceived in cooperation with Gerhardi. New Horizons for the Lighting Industry At the booth, Oerlikon HRSflow showcased several advanced appli-cations, including the Head Lightbar for the automotive sector, crafted from crystal-clear polycarbonate (PC) and produced using the innovative FLEXflow HRS hot runner system technology. This application, provided courtesy of Automotive Lighting, demonstrated the precision and innovation driving the industry forward. FLEXflow HRS technology, powered by servo motors, enables perfectly synchronized pin management, delivering exceptional flow front accuracy in sequential injections. This advanced solution minimizes sudden pressure drops, ensuring more uniform cavity filling and reducing stress on the plastic components. This flexibility is not limited to the filling phase alone; during the holding phase, needle profiles (including speed and stroke) can be individually adjusted to meet specific product requirements, offering unmatched versatility. Picture: Oerlikon HRSflow