KraussMaffei “zero defect” production cell, featuring MuCell® technology from Trexel received the Gold medal award at Plastpol 2013

At the recent Plastpol 2013 show in Poland, KraussMaffei received the gold medal for the most innovative application shown at the show by demonstrating a fully automated manufacturing cell for the production of lightweight automotive parts based on its GX 400-3000 machine technology. The GX400-3000 featured MuCell physical foaming technology from Trexel. The entire production cell is designed to bring maximum productivity and innovative detail solutions for zero defect production, along with production intelligence.

"In combination with an MuCell equipment package and a precision injection and plasticizing unit, the GX series is tailor-made for reliable production of foamed components," explains Frank Peters, Vice President Sales at KraussMaffei. "This automotive application shows the enormous potential still available in lightweight thermoplastic solutions," said Peters.

Steve Braig, President & CEO of Trexel, Inc. noted, “MuCell technology is a natural fit for the high performance and productivity requirements of the automotive industry. The MuCell process brings weight reduction, dimensional stability and allows dramatic reductions in part production cycle time. MuCell brings benefits that are integral to the performance of this new technology from KraussMaffei.”

The high shot weight constancy of less than +/- 0.1 percent ensures reliable production even under the most demanding conditions. This means that productivity is assured. As the fastest dual platen machine on the market, the GX offers the shortest movement times for maximum productivity. The smooth-running mechanism reduces traction resistance by up to 80 percent and, together with a hydraulic concept designed for minimum flow losses, ensures maximum energy efficiency.

The MuCell® Microcellular Foam technology from Trexel Inc. is a complete process and equipment technology that enables the production of high quality plastic parts with significantly enhanced dimensional stability, lower weight/material and reduced cycle time. MuCell® technology involves the introduction of precisely metered quantities of atmospheric gases (nitrogen or carbon dioxide) in the plasticizing unit of an injection molding machine to create a microcellular material structure in the end product. The creation of these microcellular structures brings a wide array of benefits including an increased part quality along with reduced production costs.

Trexel, Inc. has led the development of the MuCell® Microcellular foaming technology and has pioneered many plastic processing solutions. Process deployment as well as equipment is supported by teams of highly qualified engineers through Trexel subsidiaries in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Source: Trexel