ORLANDO, FLA. (April 16, 1:45 p.m. ET) — RJG Inc. is bringing the machine into pre-production molding analysis.

While there are multiple software firms that offer ways to digitally design and virtually fill molds before the steel is cut, the monitoring and mold-training firm is using its knowledge of injection molding press nozzles, clamping pressure, shot size and other data to bear in pre-production planning.

“This is the kind of information companies need to even figure out if makes sense for them to bid on a program,” said Gary Chastain, training manager for RJG.

Most software programs on the market are built around mold design and use a library of information about material. RJG, which has long used machinery and press statistics and engineering specifications to help molders set up production on the shop floor, has now combined its data with the assistance from Sigma Plastic Services Inc.’s Sigmasoft to provide an even tighter snapshot of real world production during the planning process.

That will not only help molders determine which projects they should take on, Chastain said, it will also cut the time needed for pre-launch part qualification.

“They can use that information to decrease the number of days needed in setup,” he said.

RJG has also added another trainer to its staff and is launching a shortened session for workers who have been through the mold floor training previously, but want to brush up on their skills as well as learn new technology.

The company is also introducing new monitoring equipment, updating its established lines and adding new capabilities, including real-time monitoring of cooling lines.

RJG is also introducing a touch screen version of its eDART control. The touch screen is easier to use, Chastain said, and also includes an option to contact an RJG engineer for real-time problem solving — a benefit for any company running 24 hours a day, seven days a week who need access to engineers at all hours.