The IKV Institute of Plastics Processing at RWTH Aachen University has received a new vertical elastomer injection moulding machine of type VSEFE 3000/2000/330 b Performance from LWB Steinl GmbH & Co. KG, Altdorf. Peter Radosai, Head of Sales Europe, handed over the new machine in a ceremony at the IKV development plant.
The EF-E injection unit (LWB Stein’s designation) represents the state-of-the-art in the field of injection technology. It combines the positive properties of the first-in, first-out (FIFO) principle of an EF injection unit with a fully-emptying E system. A clear reduction in heating time can also be achieved through the multi-stage control of the dissipative injection energy performed by the rapid cure element fitted between the EF and the E systems. The machine has a clamping force of 2825 kN and can deliver a maximum injection volume of 2000 ccm.
The IKV’s research programme includes innovative approaches to optimum process control aimed at offsetting material-conditioned batch fluctuations. In the field of special injection moulding processes, this new machine is being used to conduct investigations into the projectile injection technique using black rubber. The general aim of research work at IKV is to investigate and overcome the challenges associated with machinery, processes and tools in the production of elastomer parts.
The Head of the Institute, Professor Christian Hopmann, expressed his thanks to LWB Steinl for making the state-of-the-art elastomer injection moulding machine available: “We are delighted that, with this machine, we will be able to further expand our activities in the field of elastomer injection moulding and take forward our work on new research issues. The new machine technology opens up completely new possibilities for boosting efficiency and optimising the processes employed for the processing of elastomers. LWB Steinl has supported this work for a long time already and, with the new elastomer injection moulding machine, will allow us to conduct research with state-of-the art technology. And that is also of direct benefit for our students’ education too.”