Fakuma 2023: New Hybrid Machine Launches

Arburg will debut the new 150-ton Allrounder 520 H at Fakuma 2023 (Oct. 17-21; Friedrichshafen, Germany) with an updated drive that allows simultaneous movement of hydraulic auxiliary axes, including ejector and core pull, without technology stages or multi-pump technology.

The newest machine in its hybrid Hidrive series, the Allrounder 520 H emphasizes energy efficiency. Following the launch of the 470 H machine in the spring to mark Arburg’s centennial, the company has expanded the line adding 520 and 570 machines.

At Fakuma, an Allrounder 520 H Premium will run a 1+1+1-cavity mold to produce three different components from ABS in a cycle time of around 50 seconds. Specifically, the machine will mold a model injection press, including a machine base, feed hopper and controller. These three components are automatically separated from each other in a cutting station, and along with 15 other parts, comprise a 18:1 scale model Allrounder.

As part of the cell, a Moldlife Sense computer system enables sensor-controlled mold monitoring, passing recorded data via an OPC-UA interface directly to the Allrounder’s Gestica control. This system also tracks performance-dependent maintenance intervals, enabling predictive maintenance.

Also included is the new Multilift Select 8 linear robotic system with an 8-kg payload, which removes the molded parts and places them in a box. From there a box changer allows it to run unmanned for roughly 2 hours.

The Hidrive series features an electric clamping unit and a hydraulic injection unit. Novel to the Allrounder Premium machines is standard flow splitting using Varan valve technology to separate the main pump’s available flow volume when required. Doing so allows simultaneous movements of hydraulic auxiliary axes, including the ejector and core pull.

An Arburg spokesperson told Plastics Technology that flow rate splitting specifically eliminates the need for multipump technology with a second servomotor and additional frequency converter, which ultimately saves weight, costs and space for the machine.

Arburg says that compared to an analogous hydraulic machine, the Allrounder H’s energy footprint is up to 50 percent smaller. A new oil-management system allows the Allrounder machines to use up to 35 percent less oil, while required cooling water can be reduced by up to 70 percent, with a 40 percent reduction dry-cycle time.

The Allrounder 520 H offers three performance variations: Comfort, Premium and Ultimate. The first two feature the Arburg servo hydraulic system (ASH) as standard, with speed-controlled water-cooled servomotors continuously adapting to the actual power requirements.

From a maintenance standpoint, the machine automatically reports when the oil filter needs to be changed, and the filters and connections have been made more accessible, with the mounting locations for the central lubrication system, pneumatic system and interfaces optimized.