Smart Molding International 1-2026

26 smart_molding interna onal 1/2026 molding technologies Injection molding novelties at K 2025 Throughout 2025, various companies, focusing on designing and manufacturing of machines, molds and special tooling were relessly launching their new developments for bene t of the injec on molding sector. Many of these state-of-the-art novel es were demonstrated at K 2025 ‒ the world's leading plas cs and rubber trade fair, that was held in Düsseldorf, Germany, October 8-15 2025. A mong the most highlighted exhibits at K 2025 were six injection molding machines demonstrated by prominent machine builders. More space, more e ciency, more precision: World premiere of the e-bar-less ENGEL victory electric With the new victory electric, ENGEL launched a world-first at K 2025: a tie- bar-less electric injection moulding machine that sets new standards in precision, energy efficiency and flexibility. The completely redesigned clamping unit combines the proven advantages of tie-bar-less technology with the dynamics of electric drive systems – enabling higher productivity within the same footprint. Tie-bar-less means: more space in the mould area, faster mould changes and easier automation. ENGEL has already installed more than 85,000 machines of this design worldwide – a clear proof of the concept’s success. The victory electric now combines these well-established benefits with those of an electric machine design in the clamping force range above 1,300 kN. This closes a gap in the market where many processors are actively seeking such solutions. The new ENGEL victory electric impresses not only with technical precision but also with clear economic advantages. Its compact design reduces the overall machine length by around 200 mm, allowing for optimised production layouts. At the same time, the tie-bar-less design enables the use of significantly larger moulds compared to conventional machines of the same clamping force class – without additional investment. For example, a mould that would typically require around 3200 kN can be operated on a victory electric 220 with just 2200 kN clamping force. At the heart of the machine is a newly developed clamping unit with two vertically arranged pressure bars. These replace the traditional toggle Picture: Messe Düsseldorf