ENGEL has recently delivered an all-electric injection moulding machine, the e-mac 100, to the Institute for Plastics Technology (ikd) at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences. This state-of-the-art machine, equipped with ENGEL’s digital assistance systems, will be used extensively in both education and research. The e-mac 100 aims to provide students and researchers with new opportunities to practically experience and apply digitalisation and energy efficiency in the field of plastics technology.
Enhancing Educational Opportunities
The new injection moulding machine will play a crucial role in the Bachelor’s programme in Plastics Technology. Students will learn to determine setting parameters, optimise processes for part quality, and use statistical experimental designs to analyse influencing factors on part characteristics. This hands-on experience is vital for translating theoretical knowledge into practical skills, preparing students for future roles in the industry. The machine’s digital capabilities allow for the transmission of over 32,000 parameters to a cloud for analysis using AI, correlating with the quality features of produced products.
In the Master’s programme, the machine is supplemented by the ENGEL tool sim link, which integrates Cadmould simulations directly into the injection moulding process. This makes production starts more efficient and allows students to trace and optimise the entire process from simulation to production. The comprehensive digital equipment of the e-mac 100 enables data collection on tool wear and predictive maintenance, extending tool lifespan and increasing efficiency.
The practical application of this technology in education ensures that students are well-prepared for the demands of the modern plastics industry. By using advanced digital tools, they can optimise production time, sustainability, and energy efficiency, making them valuable assets to future employers.
Advancing Research Capabilities
The e-mac 100 is not only a boon for education but also significantly enhances research capabilities at the Institute for Plastics Technology. Researchers can utilise the machine’s digital features to collect and analyse data on tool wear and predictive maintenance. This enables preventive measures, extending the lifespan of tools and saving costs. The machine’s precision and energy efficiency make it ideal for a wide range of applications, providing researchers with the tools they need to innovate and improve processes.
The integration of AI and digitalisation in the injection moulding process allows for a detailed analysis of production parameters and part characteristics. This leads to well-founded optimisations in the injection moulding process, improving production time and sustainability. The machine’s ability to send vast amounts of data to the cloud for analysis further enhances research capabilities, allowing for continuous improvement and innovation.
By providing a platform for advanced research, the e-mac 100 helps the institute stay at the forefront of plastics technology. Researchers can explore new methods and technologies, contributing to the development of more efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes.
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
The delivery of the e-mac 100 to the Institute for Plastics Technology marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between academia and industry. The machine’s advanced features and capabilities provide students and researchers with the tools they need to excel in their fields. This collaboration ensures that the next generation of plastics engineers is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the industry.
The e-mac 100’s energy efficiency and precision make it a valuable asset for the plastics industry. By demonstrating how energy-efficient plastic parts can be manufactured, the machine sets a new standard for sustainability in manufacturing. The integration of digital tools and AI in the injection moulding process also highlights the importance of digitalisation in modern manufacturing.
Looking ahead, the collaboration between ENGEL and the Institute for Plastics Technology promises to yield further advancements in the field. The continuous improvement of injection moulding processes and the development of new technologies will drive innovation and sustainability in the plastics industry. The e-mac 100 is just the beginning of a new era in plastics technology, where digitalisation and energy efficiency play a central role.
