At K 2019, Engel Global will demonstrate iQ weight control by processing recycled ABS on an Engel victory 120 injection molding machine, using material from two different suppliers to simulate real-world conditions.
The iQ weight control individually adjusts the quality-related process parameters for each shot to suit the prevailing conditions. The software keeps the injected melt volume and viscosity constant.
Engel said the system has been used since 2014 to process virgin materials. However, recycled material yields greater batch variations that virgin plastics — as shown by a test by Engel and recycling machinery maker Erema Group GmbH. Using different recycling technologies, heavily soiled polypropylene textiles were salvaged, pelletized and run through an injection molding press using iQ weight control.
“The tests confirmed that IQ weight control maintains a constant melt volume throughout the production process, even when processing recycled material,” said Paul Kappeler, product manager for digital solutions at Engel Austria GmbH. “By offering this solution, we’re opening the door to a significantly wider range of applications for recycled material, making an important contribution to the circular economy.”
Engel will be in Hall 15, Stand C58 at K.
Engel’s North American unit, Engel Machinery Inc., is in York, Pa.
Tel. 717-764-6818, email [email protected].