Next-Generation All-Electric and Vertical Injection Molding Machines

The MS G2 Series second-generation electric injection molding machines feature the eV-Line servo-motor-driven injection and plasticizing injection units, which control the measurement values and injection position in a closed loop. Sodick Plustech says the system provides positional accuracy and repeatability in plasticizing, metering and injection, while running quieter and on less energy than other machines. Sodick says the new series achieves up to a 28% reduction in power consumption compared to its hybrid models.

The MS G2 Series includes a new controller and operation screen. Sodick says the new control’s communication system has improved the response time for each operation. It has also adopted a temperature control system for more precise regulation of heater temperature, achieving more stable, high-precision molding.

The company has upgraded to a 19" screen, enabling clear graphical representation of machine-state data and real-time cycle chart displays. The new control maintains the screen switch layout of the previous model for continuity, with smartphone-like functionalities such as pinch-in/out and swiping.

Sodick says the machines comply with Euromap 77, Euromap 82 and OPC UA communication protocols, enabling them to network with auxiliary devices and other equipment, with standard LAN ports facilitating connections to the company’s V Connect quality and production management system.

The MS G2 Series facilitates setting conditions for a wide range of molding methods, such as pressure filling control (pressure priority control), injection link clamping function and clamping during injection for effective venting measures.

New Hybrid Verticals

The VR G Series is the successor to Sodick’s VRE Series hybrid, vertical, rotary injection molding machines. The new VR G Series inherits the accurate filling and stable plasticization of the VRE Series via the V-Line injection unit and Sodick’s hybrid direct-pressure clamping.

The VR G Series expands on the VREs’ mold size capacities with up to a 50% increase to accommodate larger and more complex molds. For reference, mold installation area expansion multiples range from 1 to 1.5 times.

The VR G combines the V-Line injection unit of separate plasticizing and injection units, with Sodick’s proprietary hydraulic servo control technology. The vertical line has also adopted the new controller with large 19" screen and smartphone-like touch functionalities as well as Industry 4.0 connectivity via adoption of Euromap and OPC UA protocols.