Demag en PDF

Requirements for
Injection molding machines
Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.


Shanghai Branch
Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Ningbo, 315800, Zhejiang Province, P.R.China
669
315800
Tel: +86-574-8618 1500
Fax: +86-574-8618 1518
E-mail: stephan.greif@dpg.com
Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

Road, Shanghai 200335, P.R.China
1221
6
200335
Tel: +86-21-5219 5000
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E-mail: shanghai@demag-ergotech.com.cn

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Introduction
1. Features of thin-walled packaging containers
Markets and applications
Classification
Typical materials
Quality requirements
Mould-related requirements
Requirements for automation
Enhanced function integration for packaging containers
2. Sequence of operations and process control

Times and speeds
Calculation of cooling time
Pressure profile
Temperatures
3. Machine- related requirements

Clamping unit
Main functions of clamping unit
Ancillary functions of clamping unit
Dimensioning the clamping platens to suit requirements
Reinforced machine frame
Kinematics of toggle clamp
Sensitive and effective mould protection system
Injection unit
Mechanical design
Injection accumulator and servo-valve
Melt preparation and homogenization
Barrier screw
melt residence time
Drive concept and function sequences
The Elexis S drive concept
Parallel function sequences in main and auxiliary axes
Machine hour rates due to reduced energy consumption


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4. Economics
Assessment of prorated costs of production
Comparison of economics
Conclusions


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Introduction
In order to produce injection-molded, thin-walled packaging containers
economically in an increasingly competitive market, molders are compelled
to proceed in strict observation of the cost factors in designing the products
to be molded. In order to save raw material, the tend is towards ever
thinner wall thicknesses which in the production phase create special
requirements to be fulfilled by the injection-molding machine and the
production
environment.
Injection-molding
systems
that
are
custom-designed for a specific application form the basis of economical
production. The objective of the present article is to review how far modern
injection-molding machines and their drive concepts are capable of
meeting the process requirements associated with the production of
packaging containers.
1. Features of thin-walled packaging containers
1.1. Markets and applications

Thin-walled, injection-molded packaging containers have application as:
Food containers (Cups, boxes, pails, etc. for dairy products,


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margarine, ice- cream)

Catering products (drinking cups, plastic tableware )
Hygienic articles (boxes for moist wipes )
Containers for paints and oil (buckets )
Gardening articles (planting pots )
1.2. Classification
Thin-walled, injection-molded packaging usually takes the form of
hollow bodies which, open at one end of a wide variety of shapes, are
suitable for either disposable or reusable containers. Typically, such
moldings have wall thicknesses ranging between 0.3 and 1.5 mm in
conjunction with very high flow-distance/wanll-thickness ratios of up to
400:1.
Economical injection molding of thin-walled packaging containers
depends on short cycle times and minimum material usage. The
designers primary concern in developing thin-walled containers
therefore is to reduce their wall thicknesses while meeting all durability
specifications.
1.3. Typical material
Injection-molded packaging containers are mostly molded in
polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS). Whereas
modified or specially compounded standard plastics (HIPS, m-PP)
are also frequently used, engineering plastics will be encountered only
in exceptional cases.
Generally, the injection molding of thin-wall containers calls for high
flow ability coupled with a high toughness and stiffness as well as
close molecular weight distribution. Materials that can be used for high
performance injection molding include types with melt flow indices
(MFI) from 40 -50g/10min (230C/2.16kg), and, in special cases, of up
to 150g/10min. The formulation should be optimized for
high-performance injection molding. Frequently, the materials used are
stabilized, mixed with nucleating agents and lubricants as well as
antistatic. The melt indices of these materials come within a very


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narrow tolerance range. Were in contact with food, additional

considerations include protective properties and non-toxicity.
1.4. Quality requirements
While thin-walled packaging containers more often than not are
short-lived and generally little valued products, there are a great
number of quality requirements to be met, including some rather
complex ones:
Uniform wall thickness distribution,
Minimal warpage
High stiffness at elevated temperatures (due to fast demolding
during production or stressing when filling hot food or during
sterilization),
Good stacking and lateral pressure strength,
High surface finish,
Homogeneous color distribution or, conversely, uniformly high
transparency,
High weight consistency (Delta g: 0.5 to 1%).
1.5. Mould-related requirements
The high quality requirements for thin-walled injection moldings can be
fulfilled only by optimum combination of material, machine, mould, and
process control. Therefore, it is important that deficiencies in part design
and mould imperfections should be avoided from the start. The mould
should provide:
High stability and minimum deflection,
Surfaces, partially coated if necessary, that facilitate demolding,
Hydraulically operated compressed-air-assisted demolding,
Effective mould cooling, i.e. temperature control with high flow rates
and low pressure loss,
Minimum-maintenance guiding and centering elements,
Minimum differences in degrees of filling.
In the case of some moldings, the use of stack moulds should be


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considered for economic reasons. Injection via hot runner system is

state of the art.
1.6. Requirements for automation
Orderly removal of thin-walled packaging containers from the
injection-molding machine is an important consideration in desighing
the production system. A factor to be considered is that thin-walled parts
are liable to be damaged by unsuitable removal equipment or
drop-in-the-box type unloading, and that costly provisions may be
necessary for alignment, orientation, stacking, and collective packing.
Medium-sized and larger-size moldings (Cups, trays, pails) are usually
removed from the mould by means of fast unloading systems. Modern
parts handing equipment and robots are capable of unloading cycles as
short as 0.4s.
1.7. Enhanced function integration on packaging containers
The function of modern packing is not only one of protecting the product
but it also forms an element in the logistics chain and serves as a
marketing instrument in its own right. This goes together with enhanced
intergration of functions into the packaging. The techniques adopted
range from decoration, e.g. by means of in mould labeling (IML),
through subsequent finishing (by hot embossing or similar techniques)
to the application of handles, etc.


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2. Sequence of operations and process control

Planting pot (193mm)
Machine:
Screw:
Mould:
Appication:
Diameter:
Hight:
Flow parth:
Wall thickness:
Flow parth/ Wall thickness ratio:

Proj. area:
Material:
Shot weight:
Cycle time:
Ergotech 200/630-840 EL-EXIS S

45 mm (A)
L/D - Verh.: 25 : 1
1 - fach
Pflanztopf
193 mm
136 mm
144 mm
0,45 mm (
<>=
320: 1
293 cm
PP, MFI 35 g/10min (190/2,16kg)
33.5 g
0.12 s Injection time
0.25 s Holding time
0.80 s Cooling time
0.10 s Pause time (Handling time)
1.42 s Machine time ( 330 mm )
2.69 s Cycle time
Fig.2: Planting pot application

The following application example will be used to analyse the process
sequences in the injection molding of thin-walled packaging containers in
greater detail. The application involves a planting pot made from
polypropylene with a flow distance/ wall thickness ration of 320:1.
Untypical of the fabrication of packaging containers, the single-cavity
mould was fitted with two pressure sensors in order to permit the
pressure level in the cavity to be determined.
Before proceeding to description of the pressure situation, let us have a
look at the cycle sequence for this application.


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Cycle sequence for application Planting pot

2.69
Cycle time
0.33
Ejector
0.69
Mould open
1.20
Dosage
0.80
Cooling time
Holding pressure
0.25
0.12
Injection
0.10
Nozzle protection
Mould shut
0.73
Fig. 3: Cycle sequence for application Planting pot

2.1. Times and speeds
The cycle time in injection molding is made up of the following main times:
Process times (injection, hold pressure, cooling),
Machine times (mould movement, ejection, nozzle movement),
Pause time or removal time.
Generally, the process times and, in particular the cooling times, account
for the major part of the total cycle time. Apart from specific material
properties, the cooling time depends primarily on the wall thickness of the
molding, mold wall temperature, and the melt temperature, the cooling
time varying as the square of the wall thickness.


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Cooling time as a function of wall thickness

55
50
Holding time
45
Cooling time
Material: PP, HDPE, LDPE
40
Time [s]
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
0,75
1,25
1,75
2,25
2,75
3,25
3,75
4,25
4,75
Wall thickness [mm]

Mould wall temperature:40 C , Ejection temperature: 70 C , Melt temperature: 240 C
Fig.4: Cooling time as a function of wall thickness

2.2. Calculation of cooling time
For a given material (e.g. PP) and a constant mean mould wall
temperature, the relationship between the wall thickness and the cooling
time is illustrated by the plot in Fig.4. Wall thicknesses of thin-walled
containers are generally less than 1.5mm and sometimes, depending on
the particular application, may be as thin as 0.3mm. This means that in the
case of polyolefin cooling times may well be less than 1 second. Total
cycle time obtained in molding cups and small containers ma be between
3 and 4 s. If, apart from the cooling time within the cycle time, there will
remain only a few tenths of a second for the process phases injection and
hold pressure.
Under conditions of thin wall thicknesses, long flow lengths, and extremely
low mould wall temperatures, the plastic will not remain flowable and
molten indefinitely to control the packing of the cavities and shrinkage in
the holding pressure phase. Therefore, it is necessary when molding
thin-walled containers to use very high injection speeds of up to
1,000mm/s (set value). Moreover, on account of the freezing behavior of
the melt, it is absolutely necessary to provide for appropriate acceleration
of the screw at the beginning of the injection process.


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Due to the high injection speeds for molding thin-walled containers with a
high flow-distance/ wall-thickness ratio, correspondingly high injection and
cavity pressures ha to be reckoned with.
2.3. Pressure profile
The pressure profile obtained in molding the planting pot with a wall
thickness of 0.45mm bears out the high injection pressure required of
approx.1,500 bar. The interpretation of the pressure plot also shows that
the maximum cavity pressure in the injection phase occurs after 0.18s.
The holding pressure phase of 0.25s has only little influence on the
molding of the part because the melt is already solidified. The melt is
compacted only near the gate in the bottom area of the molding as the
cavity pressure continues to drop until the gate has been sealed.
Studies undertaken with the single-cavity mould for making planting pot
provided information on the pressure propagation during the molding
process. The pressure, measured at a point close to the gate and at
another point away from the gate permits conclusions to be drawn
regarding the pressure drop over the flow path.
If the pressure drop is plotted over the melt path, it will be noticed that
considerable pressure losses occur during the injection phase already in
the machine nozzle and in the hot runner system. This means that,
depending on the specific application, it is necessary to provide injection
barrels with injection pressures of up to 2,400 bar, in individual cases even
as high as 3,000 bar, in order to obtain a sufficiently high pressure in the
mould.
Injection pressure
[bar]
Injection pressure as a function of injection time

1600
1580
1560
1540
1520
Optimum
Area
1500
0,1
0,12
0,14
0,16
0,18
0,2
350
315
280
245
210
175

Injection time [s]

Injection speed [mm/s]

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Fig.7: Injection pressure as a function of injection time

Studies made to determine the injection pressure required as a function of
the injection time have shown that, in the particular example, the required
pressure passes through a minimum at 0.14s. A minimal injection
pressure makes for a low pressure level in the mould and, consequently,
reduced likelihood of over-pack even where the machine is operated at
the hold pressure limit. Moreover, less shear is liable to occur in the melt
during mould fill and, consequently, a better part quality is obtainable.
The requirements in respect of injection pressure and injection speed
when molding thin-walled containers bear out the need to provide a
machine with a suitable high injection capacity.
In order to optimize the process parameter injection speed, it is
indispensable to use a servo-valve that is capable of precise swithching
and, consequently, repaid response as well as a non-return valve
designed to provide highly accurate closing. Aside from the wellpknown
three-part non-return valves consisting of screw tip, check ringm and seat,
ball-type non-return valves are finding application to improve the closing
behavior.
Pressure profile at high injection speed with and without stepping
1400
140
1400
140
1200
120
1200
120
1000
100
800
80
600
60
400
200
0
0,00
s screw
0,10
0,20
0,30
pressure [bar]
160
1600
P spec.
PWi
screw stroke [mm]
1800
1600
pressure [bar]
Pressure variation at high injection speed,

stepped
180
P spec.
PWi
180
160
s screw
1000
100
800
80
600
60
40
400
40
20
200
20
0
0,40
0
0,00
time [s]
0,10
0,20
time [s]
0,30
screw stroke [mm]
Pressure variation at high injection speed
1800
0
0,40
Fig.8: Pressure profile at high injection speed with and without stepping.


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Repaid-action servo-valves are the basis for controlled injection speed

and permit stepping even where injection times are very short. By braking
the screw before the transfer point is reached, it is possible to prevent
pressure peaks in the mould and, consequently, over-pack. In addition,
improved injection time consistency is obtained as an essential parameter
for the level of molded part quality to be attained.
2.4. Temperature
Barrel wall temperatures when processing PP
Moldtemperatur
Material PP
C
Barrel temperature
DH
MH5
MH4
MH3
MH2
MH1
EFZ
Materialtemperatur
300-320
280-300
260-280
240-260
220-240
200-220
180-200
160-180
140-160
120-140
100-120
80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
DH: Dse
EFZ: Einfllzone
MH: Mantelheizung
L= 25 D Screw
L= 20 D Screw
Barrel screw
Fig.9: Barrel wall temperatures when processing PP

The graph shows the bandwidth of the mould wall temperature and the
barrel temperature plotted for the material PP. In order to shorten cooling
times as much as possible, it is common practice to use water inlet
temperatures for mould cooling of 8 to 10 C at a pressure of 6 to 8 bar.
An L/D ratio of 25:1 allows the temperature level for PP at the heating
jacket zones of a screw barrel to be set distinctly lower at 240 to 245 C
than an L/D ratio of 20:1. Also it is possible with melt quality unchanged
to select a melt temperature in the space ahead of the screw much
lower at 255 to 260 C than an L/D ratio of 20:1 (265 to 280 C) would


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permit. Lower melt temperatures result in shorter hold pressure and

cooling times. The temperature variations found for screw barrels with an
L/D ratio of 25:1 were in a range of about 5 C, whereas the range
determined for screw barrels with an L/D ratio of 20:1 was about 15 C.
Small temperature differences in the melt make for smaller shrinkage
differences during the molding process and, consequently, minimize
warpage in the molded product.
3. Machine- related requirements

The essential elements of the injection-molding machine are the clamping
unit and the injection unit. These will be discussed in the following both
regarding the special design features necessary for thin-wall molding and
regarding such aspects as drive technology, function and process
sequences.
3.1. Clamping unit
Clamping unit with stack- mould
Fig.10: Clamping unit with stack- mould

3.1.1. Main functions of clamping unit
The clamping unit of an injection-molding machine provides the following
main functions:


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Accommodate the mold,

Open and close the mold,
Maintain plane parallelism in running the mould halves together,
Apply the clamping force,
Apply the locking force.
3.1.2. Ancillary functions of clamping unit
Eject the molded parts,
Protect the mould.
The clear distance between tie bars, mould installation height, maximum
opening stroke,, and rated clamping force are the key features of a
clamping unit. Conventionally, injection- molding machines are classified
according to their rated clamping force.
F1=Clamping Force
F2=Locking Spare
F3=Locking Force
F2
S1=Machine deformation
under clamping force
(Tie bar extension)
S2=Mould deformation
(Mould deformation)
S3=Machine deformation
Under locking force
F3
F1
S1
S2
S3
Fig.11: Clamping force / locking force

In closing and locking a toggle-type form-locking system, the entire
mechanism, including the clamping unit (tie bars, toggle links, platens),
and the mould are subject to deformation in the elastic range which can


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be described by means of various spring constants. While the tie bars

are subject to extension, the toggle links, platens, and the mould are
subject to compression. The clamping force applied describes the state
of the rest of the clamping unit with the mould closed.
During injection of the plastic melt, a pressure profile builds up over the
injection and holding pressure times due to the flow resistances in the
mould. Short-time pressure peaks may attain values of up to 2000 bar
near gate. The mould is required to withstand this pressure without the
elements of the mould that impart the shape of the molded piece
changing their position and alignment.
Mould base plates, intermediate plates and parts that do not impart
shape continue to be compressed whereas the mould plates with the
shape-imparting parts are relieved. Relief of these mould parts is
tantamount to an elongation of the mould which is compensated by
continued tie bar extension. Only under conditions of full relief of the
mould halves will overpacking tend to occur.
Depending on mould stiffness, a toggle-type machine provides the
benefit of a reserve locking force is an asset in particular with thin-walled
containers where operation is frequently near the locking force limit.
3.1.3. Dimensioning the clamping platens to suit requirements
Bending stiffness of clamping platens
f
Fig.12: Bending stiffness of clamping platens



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The sum of all forces acting in the opening direction (including

proportionate force components due to slide locks) multiplied by the
projected area of the molded part result in a buoyancy force of the
platens which needs to be kept at a minimum.
Since as already mentioned very high cavity pressures are liable to
occur in the molding of thin-walled containers, it is necessary to upgrade
the dimensioning of the platens accordingly. Platens according to
Euromap recommendations have a relatively large centering diameter
which allows a degree of deflection that is not acceptable in this area.
This can be observed on molded parts that appear to be partially
overpacked although no mould breathing was noticeable between the
platens. Here the cavity frequently coincides with the centering area
where conventional platens are weakened by the centering hole.
With a view to minimizing deflection in centring area, fast-cycling
machines for thin-walled containers are provided with smaller centring
diameters. In addition, the cutouts for ejector penetrations and/or
injection cylinders are kept small.
According to Euromap 62, platen deflections are measured between 10
and 100% of clamping force. Defined test blocks are prescribed for this
purpose depending on the clearance between tie bars. The permissible
deflection in a conventional injection-molding machine with a clamping
force of 2500 KN and a distance between tie bars of 630 mm is 0.15mm
for a test block diameter of 400mm. If suitably dimensioned, cast-steel
platens permit values of platen deflection due to the clamping force of
less than 0.03mm. This is a prime requirement for mould fill in the case of
thin-wall containers without core displacement occurring.
Another aspect that is critical to the efficiency of moulding is to maintain
parallelism of the two platens. Careful selection of the points where the
onnecting rods are hinged to the moving platen and the resulting force
application is necessary to ards maintain plane-parallel distances
between the mould halves under all operating conditions and ensure
minimum wear of the guiding and centering systems in the mould.


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3.1.4. Reinforced machine frame

Some multi-cavity moulds for thin-walled containers are extremely heavy.
This applies in particular to stack moulds.
Where heavy moulds are frequently used in fast-cycling applications, the
machine is designed with a suitably reinforced frame. In modern
fast-cycling machines (Such as the Ergotech Elexis S), the weight of the
moving platen plus the proportionate weight of the ejector-side half of the
mould are absorbed by I-beams integrated in machine frame. To transmit
the load, the moving platen is fitted with a roller bearing that is adjustable
for height and guided on rails connected to the I-beams.
In order to avoid additional loading of the tiebars where stack moulds are
used, it is possible to support the moving centre plate of such a mould on
the same guide rails.
3.1.5. Kinematics of toggle clamp
f
Fig.13: Speed vs. mould position

A clamping unit required to provide a speed profile that meets mould
requirements. If correctly designed, the toggle provides a curve-shaped
speed profile in conformance with process requirements and controlled
by the kinematics of the toggle: It provides for gradual and jerk-free
starting, fast speed over the travel distance, and slowdown on entering
the mould opening stroke is reached, the speed has reduced to almost
zero. The inertia profile is inversely proportional: In the locking range, it


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permits optimal conversion of speed into force. In the locked condition,

the clamping system is self-jamming and requires no supply of energy.
The attainable mean speeds of the moving platens allow short machine
times to be obtained, depending on the size of the clamping unit. A
machine with a clamping force of 2500KN will attain a mean travel speed
of 0.8m/s. This, in turn, is an important precondition for short cycle times
when producing thin-wall containers.
Clamping Force [kN]
Clamping force
Speed
Mould open
50
100
Mould opening stroke [mm]
Mould close
200
150
Fig.14: Variations in force VS. Mould movements

The for c profile permitted by the mechanical advantage of the toggle
linkage, which can be achieved by means of relatively small closing
cylinder, illustrates the potential afford by a hydro-mechanical clamp to
reduce the energy consumption.
3.1.6. Sensitive and effective mould protection system


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Sensitive and effective mould protection system
Piston velocity
Master curve
Force characteristic
Protection range
Offset curve
15 mm
Normal operation
Piston velocity
Point of collision
Collision case
Force characteristic
Carriage movement
Fig.15: Automatic mould protection

It is common practice today to incorporate automatic systems to protect
the mould. Their purpose is to reliably prevent damage to the mould if
molded parts should hang up while exiting or incorrectly operated mould
slides should block the closing motion. Any such bostacles should be
promptly detected and the closing motion stopped before mould damage
and, consequently, production interruptions occur.
The Ergotech EL-EXIS family of injection molding machines features a
particularly effective mould protection system: A piezo-resistive sensor,
fitted directly on the connecting rod of the toggle at the rear of the moving
platen and a high-resolution measuring system detect even minimal
extensions or compressions that occur during mould movement. Minimal
varations in the force profile caused by a hung-up part or loss of
lubrication of the mould- guiding systems are converted into an electrical
signal and thereby supervised.
The machine records the force necessary to move the clamping through
a normal cycle by means of a force sensor and stores it as a master
curve in the machine controller. During every production cycle, the
controller compares the actual force variation against this master curve.
If there is any significant deviation of the actual values from the master
curve, the closing motion will be actively stopped.


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The protective function is not limited to the mould approach range (just
before the mould halves contact). The system will detect obstacles over
the full opening stroke and during the whole movement of the clamping
unit. Since the use of the protective function with active braking of mould
movements does not increase the cycle time, here is a technology that is
a main benefit for fast-cycling applications.
3.2. Injection unit
3.2.1 Mechanical design
The production of packaging containers includes applications involving
markedly different requirement profiles. Therefore, a certain degree of
flexibility is needed with respect to the injection unit.
It should be possible to combine different injection units with a clamping
unit. The machine design should be amenable to optimization for specific
applications.
The top of the injection should be guided and supported on linear guide
systems in order to ensure minimum friction and, thereby, easy
movement in an axial direction.
Positioning cylinder for the axial movement of the injection unit and
nozzle contact should be in line with the screw barrel in order to ensure
non-skewing nozzle contact as well as minimum wear when using
extended nozzles and screw bushes.
The mounting arrangement for the screw barrel should be flexible so as
to accommodate screws with L/D ratios of 25:1 in two different diameters
and with different injection pressures.
A high-resolution stroke-measuring system can be provided for accurate
detection of screw positions which, linked up with the machine controller,
is another contribution towards optimum process and pressure control.
An electric-motor-operated screw drive is recommendable which, in
comparison to the hydraulic operated variant, saves energy and is


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capable of plasticizing in parallel (simultaneously) with the mould

movements.
3.2.2. Injection accumulator and servo-valve
Servo valve
Accumulator
Fig.17: Injection unit with accumulator and servo-valve

As already mentioned, the moulding of thin-walled packaging containers
generally calls for high injection rates. In order to permit these necessary
injection rates to be achieved, it is necessary to use hydraulic
accumulators. It is important that charging of the accumulator is energyefficient via a variable delivery pump.
Fast-action servo-valves with adjustable control parameters are
indispensable as a control element for the injection process in order to
maintain a specified injection profile even with short injection times where
need for specific applications.


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Important of injection Dynamic

Injection Speed [mm/s]
a=12m/s a=5m/s
Conventional injection dynamic

(a=5 m/s)
Set injection speed:
800mm/s
Realized injection speed:
488mm/s
Injection time:
205ms
High dynamic injection
(a=12 m/s)
Set injection speed:
Realized injection speed:
Injection time:
800mm/s
633mm/s
157ms
Fig.18: Injection response and injection capacity

An important consideration in selecting the injection process for thin-wall
containers is the necessary rapid reponse. Short injection times of 0.1 to
0.2s, depending on the particular application, call for appropriate
injection dynamics. Provision must be made to permit the desired
injection speed, say 800mm/s, to be started at a suitable rate of
acceleration. This means that, as shown in the example, an acceleration
of 12m/s is required in the case of short screw strokes to achieve an
actual injection speed of 633 mm/s.
3.2.3. Melt preparation and homogenization
The design of an injection molding machine for the production of
thin-wall containers is required to take into account the following process
criteria:
Screw displacement,
Plasticizing capacity,
Thermal and optical homogeneity of the melt,
Residence time of melt in screw barrel,
Melting efficiency,
Melt degradation due to shear


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Barrier zone
Fig.19: 3 section screw L/D = 25:1 Barrel screw

Thin-wall packaging containers are mainly made from polyolefin, which
are partially crystalline materials. In contrast to amorphous materials,
these require a significant higher melting efficiency. The reason is in the
large enthalpy difference between, say, PS and PP. In the fast- cycling
domain, as higher throughput rates and shorter cycle times are adopted,
the residence time of the material in total amount of energy supplied
decreases and thermal balancing phenomena for a homogeneous melt
quality are restricted. Attempts to increase the screw speet to augment
the proportion generated by friction are limited by the maximum
permissible peripheral velocity which when exceeded would be liable to
cause material degradation.
Options to achieve a sufficiently long residence time with a moderate
screw speed include:
The use of longer screws to increase melt residence time, for
instance, three section screw s with an L/D ratio of 25:1 formed with
shearing and mixing section s and geometry designed for a high
throughput rate,
Changing the screw geometry to improve the melting process, for
instance, by the use of barrel screws,


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A modified cylinder heating arrangement with shorter heating zones

and increased heating capacity in the feed entry zone to provide
controlled heat input.
Melting process with barrier screw
Barrel screw
Three section Screw

Barrel flight
Passive
edge of
flight
Active
edge of
flight
Active
edge of
flight
Solid channel
Solid channel Melt channel
Fig. 20: Melting profile in barrier screw /3 section screw plasticizing unit
3.2.4. Barrier screw
In a barrier screw, the compression zone of the 3 section screw is
replaced by a barrier section. A second flight is started at the beginning
of the barrier section which is undercut below the primary flight to form a
gap relative to the cylinder barrel. This design feature separates solids
and melts because only fully molten material can pass through the
narrow gap into the melt channel. Correct process control provided, a
thin melt film forms, and the introduction of heat energy by conduction
and friction into the solids is improved. Due to the steeper pitch of the
barrier flight, melt will collect in the widening melt channel whereas flight
depth and width of the solids channel decrease. The melt efficiency of
barrier screws compared to standard 3 section screws is considerably
higher, depending on the type of material. The use of barrier screws
enables uniform, intensive and controlled melting to be effected. Special
mixing and shearing devices do additional homogenizing jobs, including
the addition of colorants.


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The influence of the residence time on the plasticizing capacity SC-diameter

60mm, PP
Fig.21: Influence of melt residence time on plasticizing capacity with PP

3.2.5 Melt residence time
Where barrier screws are used, it is necessary to consider the influence
of the melt residence time on the plasticizing capacity. In the case of PP it
has been found that with the cycle and residence times generally applied
for thin-wall containers, barrier screws will not result in any noticeable
improvement in performance over the three-section screw.
The influence of the residence time on the plasticizing capacity SC-diameter
60mm, PE
Fig.22: Influence of melt residence time on plasticizing capacity with PE



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If the material processed is PE, however, there is also a decrease in

plasticizing capacity, albeit about 30% above the values obtainable from
a three section screw.
In any case, the barrier screw will produce a better homogenizing effect,
especially in applications involving greater shot weights and high
material throughput, the upper limit of screw stroke utilization being
50-60%.
In the case of a project study it is necessary at an early stage to have
information on process parameters for the design of a plasticizing unit.
For this purpose, there are simulation programs available, such as PSI of
the Paderborn University. The program is designed to permit the
calculation of characteristic variables including:
Material throughput,
Metering time,
Temperature profile,
Pressure profile,
Melting profile,
Residence time behavior, as well as
Power rating and torque requirements.
A comparison of theoretically calculated values against practical test
results revealed deviations of fewer than 15%.
Thus, the engineer is in a position to draw on reasonably correct
information in developing the design of injection-molding machines.
3.3. Drive concept and function sequences
3.3.1. The EL-Exis S drive concept
Modern mould technology with effective cooling arrangements and
thin-wall packaging containers with reduced wall thickness permits ever
shorter process times and, consequently, ever shorter cycle times.
Depending on the shot weight in the specific application, the cooling time
available for plasticizing in sequential operation tends to be insufficient.


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In order to avoid having the cycle time extended by the necessary

plasticizing time, users are recommended to consider the use of
independent drives for the main axes, clamping unit and injection unit.
The new drive concept: Ergotech EL-EXIS S
Hydrostatic gear for opening
Servomotor
and closing
Cores
Servomotor
Variable
capacity
pump with central

accumulator
Fig.24: The drive concept of EL-EXIS S

The combination of electrical and hydraulic drives in injection-molding
machines offers an advantage in that key movements, which can be
performed independent of each other and, consequently, allow an
optimum, or shortest cycle time. In the Ergotech EL-EXIS S
high-performance injection-moldiing machine, both electrical and
hydraulic drives are provided, depending on where they are most
beneficial to power its movements.
The obvious choice for the rotary movement of the plasticizing unit is a
frequency-controlled AC-servo drive. It has a distinctly higher efficiency
than a hydraulic motor and, compared with the latter, cuts energy usage
by 40%. The rotary movement is characterized by extremely rapid
response combined with a high degree of accuracy and very good
efficiency.


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In the case of injection, what is needed is a large amount of power

available on call for a short period of time and independent of other
movements. The requirement is for highly dynamic acceleration of the
screw to provide a rate of advance of up to 1000mm/s. Since electrical
drives are limited to a fraction of this speed, injection is effected by
means of a hydraulic accumulator.
Opening and closing the mould involves linear movements so that, in
principle, a hydraulic drive would be preferable. But, for high
performance duties, a rapid response is called for during acceleration
and deceleration as well as a high degree of positioning accuracy, for
instance, for fast unloading. This is the reason why the Ergotech
EL-EXIS S incorporates a patented electro-hydraulic power pack to
operate the toggle: A combination of a frequency-controlled electric
motor and a hydrostatic transmission to provide the translation into the
hydraulic linear movement.
The three auxiliary movements core puller movement, ejector and
nozzle contact are linear movements that need not be operated in
parallel (simultaneously) and which have no significant influence on
energy consumption and cycle times. Therefore, they lend themselves to
the use of simple and inexpensive hydraulic drives that are powered from
the hydraulic accumulator.
Since, in this drive concept, all that is needed is to charge the
accumulator, it is possible, for instance in the case of the Ergotech 200
Elexis S, to reduce the installed hydraulic load to 15KW. This is
equivalent to only about 30% of the installed load of equal-size hydraulic
machines.


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3.3.3. Parallel function sequences in main and auxiliary axes

machine: 200/560-840 EL-EXIS
screwdiameter.: 50 mm L/D-ratio: 25 : 1
Cup 0.5 L
mould: 4 impressions
gate: Open hot runner needles
application:
diameter:
heigth:
flow path:
wall thickness:
Cup
94
128
175
0,45
mm
mm
mm
mm
flow path./
wall thickness ratio: 390 : 1
proj. area: 278 cm
material: PP
shot weight: 68,8
cycle time: 0,15
0,30
1,32
0,12
1,89
3,78
g
s injection time
s holding pressure
s cooling time
s pause time (Handling)
s machine time
s cycle time
Fig.25: Application Cup

The following application example will serve to analyse the potential of
cycle time reduction provided by parallel (Simultaneous) cycle
sequences in injection molding thin-wall containers in some greater detail.
The application involved here is a cup molded in polypropylene with a
flow-distance / wall-thickness ratio of 390:1.
The 4-cavity mould was operated in an Ergotech 200/560-840 Eleixs S
machine and systematically optimized to achieve the shortest possible
cycle.
There is potential for another reduction in cycle time not only in the
parallel movement of mould opening and plasticizing, but also in the
parallel movement of ejector and mould movements. Mutual interference
of the drive is not possible as can be seen from the schematics of the
hybrid drive and the ejector supply which is by means of a separate
pump set.
Other parallel functions that are apt to save cycle time compared to
sequential arrangements include:


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Pressure build-up for nozzle contact in parallel with mould locking,

Start of injection process in parallel with the locking of the mould.
At first glance, the reduction achieved in the example of 0.56s appears to
be of little importance. But judged in relation to the total cycle time of
4.34s, it will be quite obvious what saving potential there is in supposedly
minor improvements.
3.3.3. Machine hour rates due to reduced energy consumption
Machine: Ergotech 200/560-840 EL-EXIS S
Screw: 50 mm
L/D ratio.: 25 : 1
Mould: 6 Application:
Diameter:
Hight:
Flow distance:
Wall thickness:
cavity
Drinking cup
71 mm
82 mm
107 mm
0.58 mm (Bottom)
Flow distance/Wall whickness.: 195 : 1

Proj. Area: 237 cm
Material: PS
Shot weight: 63 g
Cycle time: 0,15
0,30
0,75
0,20
1.90
3.30
s Injection time
s Holding time
s Cooling time
s Pause time
s Machine time
s Cycle time
Fig.27: Application Drinking Cup

A discussion of the example of the drinking cup production will highlight
the potential offered by modern drive systems in injection-molding
machines for increasing productivity and reducing energy consumption.
The drinking cup in the application referred to is made of polystyrene and
of the type used by airline companies in their flight catering services.
Based on the use of a 6-cavity mould, a comparison was made between
two injection-molding machines, one equipped with a hydraulic drive and
the other with an electrical drive, with respect to energy consumption and
productivity.


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Both injection-molding machines were operated with the 6-cavity cup

mould and the same process times were taken as a basis. The Ergotech
rapid attained a cycle time of 3.6s, to be out performed by the Ergotech
Elexis S by another 0.3s. Advantageous factors were the shorter
movement times and the additional parallel functions for nozzle contact
and injection while mould locking is in process.
Measurements of energy consumption for the illustrated example of the
drinking cup, showed that energy usage of the Ergotech Elexis S with
its modern drive concept, while affording a shorter cycle time and,
consequently, higher output, was cut by some 46%.
The reduced energy consumption and the high efficiency of the machine
combined to reduce the machine hour rate, which is positively reflected
in the assessment of its economics


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4. Economics
4.1. Assessment of prorated costs of production
Material
Mould
IMM
Labor / Setup cost
1.9
1.9
3.6
3.8
100
80
27.9
31.7
Costs
7.5
20.9
60
40
1.2
30
61.8
65.4
ET200/560-840
Rapid
ET200/560-840
EL-EXIS S
69.4
20
0
ET250/630-1450
EL-EXIS S
Fig. 29: Assessment of prorated costs of production

An analysis of the costs of production in injection molding thin-wall
containers shows that materials account for the major part of product cost.
This fact is borne out by the example of the thin-wall drinking cup, which,
using a 6-cavity mould in an Ergotech Elexis S IM machine with a
clamping force of 2000KN, is produced within 3.3s. The cost of the
material in the example given amounts to about 65% and thus represents
the major cost item.
Labor and setup costs, on the other hand, account for only about 2%. The
reason is that, in the packaging industry, production is usually in very great


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numbers. The mould remains in the machine for a long period of time and
automatic switch-on and start-up programs permit relatively simple
starting of the machines (for instance at the beginning of each week) and
take little time. Apart from that, it is common practice for one operator to
supervise several machines. This explains the small percentage of labor
and setup costs in the costs of production to be reckoned with.
The remaining elements of the costs of production are the investment
costs for the machine and auxiliaries (28%) and for the mould (4%).
Compared to the production of technical parts which generally are
produced in small numbers, the prorated investment costs in the case of
packaging containers referred to the total product cost are rather low. The
explanation is that investment costs can be spread over a larger number
of pieces: And the prorated costs per part are reduced.
In the light of the cost situation described, it can be concluded that it
definitely pays off to invest in efficient and reliable injection-molding
machines and moulds in order to improve productivity.
4.2. Comparison of economics
In the study recited below, 3 different variants were reviewed for the
production of the drinking cups with respect to production costs and
contrasted with the least efficient variant.
Variant 1: Injection-molding machine Ergotech rapid with hydraulic drive
concept and 6- cavity mould.
Variant 2: Injection-molding machine Ergotech Elexis S with electrical
drive concept and 6-cavity stack mould.
Variant 3: Injection-molding machine Ergotech Elexis S with electrical
drive concept and 6+6 cavity.
The estimated cost of production for variant 1 amount to Euro 13.39
/1000 pieces.
Considering the lower energy costs coupled with the cycle time reduction
of 0.3s, this amounts to a saving in production costs relative to variant 1
of about Euro 0.74/1000 pieces for the Elexis S machine despite the


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lower investment cost for the Ergotech rapid machine calculated on the
basis of prices in 1997.
Another possibility of lowering production costs is the use of stack moulds
with two parting lines behind each other. Theoretically, such a mould can,
on the same clamping area, almost double the part output because, on
account of the coinciding buoyancy areas in both daylights, no higher
locking force is required.
The reference machine in the comparison is an Ergotech Elexis S with
2500KN and 6+6 cavity stack mould. In view of the heavier mould
weight and the longer opening stroke required, the model with 2500KN
instead of 2000KN was selected. In addition, a larger-size injection unit
was chosen in order to cover the higher plasticizing and injection
capacity.
In production, the system with the 6+6 cavity stack mould attains a cycle
time of 3.9s which is equivalent to an out put of 6545 pieces/h, this means
that productivity has been almost doubled.
The saving compared to variant 1 has been estimated at Euro 1.46/1000
pieces which makes it the most economical variant.
It should be mentioned at this junction that a valid economical
assessment with respect to the use of stack moulds is extremely difficult.
Stack moulds pose most exacting demands in terms of machine
performance, mould technology and operator skills. The availability
obtainable and assurance of proper support for such equipment are
aspects that users should carefully review in the light of their production
environment.
Conclusions
Investment in state-of-art technology, whether in respect of the
injection-molding machines, the moulds of parts-removal technology, as
the case may be, generally mean a higher financial outlay. However, the
extra expense will pay off in the medium term because the consistent use
of modern injection-molding systems allows the molder of thin-wall


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packaging containers to exploit to potential for significant reductions in his

or her production costs.
The high standards required in terms of molded part quality and out put
dictate the use of complex equipment and, preliminary to volume
production, call for concerted planning between the purchaser and the
suppliers involved. Consistent project support right through to
commissioning, including verification of the guaranteed performance, are
crucial for the molder to achieve his or her targeted objectives.
Thank you for your time. If you have any questions, please dont hesitate to
contact our application engineer Mr. Jack Liu with email
jackliu@demag-ergotech.com.cn for more information.
With best regards,
Stephan Greif
CEO Demag Ningbo
Vice President China


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Requirements for

Injection molding machines

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

2. Sequence of operations and process control

3. Machine- related requirements

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

1. Features of thin-walled packaging containers

1.1. Markets and applications

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

margarine, ice- cream)

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

narrow tolerance range. Were in contact with food, additional

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

considered for economic reasons. Injection via hot runner system is

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

2. Sequence of operations and process control

Flow parth/ Wall thickness ratio:

Ergotech 200/630-840 EL-EXIS S

Fig.2: Planting pot application

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

Cycle sequence for application Planting pot

Fig. 3: Cycle sequence for application Planting pot

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

Cooling time as a function of wall thickness

Material: PP, HDPE, LDPE

Wall thickness [mm]

Fig.4: Cooling time as a function of wall thickness

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,

Add: 6/F Gienkee Plas Center, No.1221 Hami

Injection pressure as a function of injection time

Injection time [s]

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Demag Plastics Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Add.: No.669, Kunlunshan Road, Beilun District,