Smart Molding International 4-2022

50 smart_molding international 4/2022 sensors What service do you offer your customers to ensure that they use cavity pressure measurements to their full potential? Actually, we offer several services to support our customers. First of all, we are able to provide a simulation of the process even before the injection mold is built. With this simulation, we can determine how many sensors are needed, where the sensors should be optimally positioned, and which sensor type is best suited for the process. Also, we can detect possible errors and weak points in the injection process at a very early stage. With our service package MoldValidation I, we make sure that the sensor is installed correctly and works properly. For instance, we check if the holes that house the sensor were drilled correctly and if the sensor fits in well. We also check if the measurement cables have been installed in the right way and if they are protected in critical parts of the injection mold. With MoldValidation II, we take a closer look at existing processes. The goal is to optimize the process by determining the ideal parameters. This makes sense for customers who have a hard time identifying a problem within a running process. It also makes sense if a crucial part of the process is due to be changed – for instance if the customer wants to use a new mold. But it can also help manufacturers reduce scrap or simply make a working process even more efficient, as we help to define the evaluation box.In any of these cases, we helpthe customer adjust his injection molding process in the best way possible and make sure that our customer is getting the most out of the technology and the data our sensors generate. At the end of each of these services, the customer receives documentation of the service and a clear recommendation for possible next steps. Why do manufacturers need the help of experts? Would a simple checklist of the most important parameters not suffice to improve a process? There are some criteria which are universally true and can help improve product quality in injection molding – for instance, the (processing) temperature of the material can influence the dimensional accuracy. But what our experts do is more complex. After all, every mold and every process is different: There are so many additional contributing factors that it can be difficult to detect the correlations between faulty processes and external factors. This is where our expertise truly pays off – and why even very experienced injection molders who are able to install their sensors themselves can profit from a service like MoldValidation II. About the Kistler Group Kistler is the global market leader for dynamic pressure, force, torque and acceleration measurement technology. Cutting-edge technologies provide the basis for Kistler's modular solutions. Customers in industry and scientific research benefit from Kistler's experience as a development partner, enabling them to optimize their products and processes so as to secure sustainable competitive edge. Unique sensor technology from this owner- managed Swiss corporation helps to shape future innovations not only in automotive development and industrial automation but also in many newly emerging sectors. Drawing on our extensive application expertise, and always with an absolute commitment to quality, Kistler plays a key part in the ongoing development of the latest megatrends. The focus is on issues such as electrified drive technology, autonomous driving, emission reduction and Industry 4.0. Some 2,000 employees at more than 60 facilities across the globe are dedicated to the development of new solutions, and they offer application-specific services at the local level. Ever since it was founded in 1959, the Kistler Group has grown hand-in- hand with its customers and in 2021, it posted sales of mCHF 411. About 7% of this figure is reinvested in research and technology – with the aim of delivering better results for every customer. Kistler www.kistler.com Christian Streili knows what matters when measuring cavity pressures (all photos: Kistler) With MoldValidation II, we take a closer look at existing processes. The goal is to optimize the process by determin - ing the ideal parameters. This makes sense for customers who have a hard time identifying a problem within a run- ning process.