PIQUA, Ohio—French Oil Machinery Co. has debuted a self-contained, three press system with one central press controller for the compression molding of composite medical parts.
Each compression press was designed with three daylights, totaling nine pressing surfaces to effectively increase production rates, and is capable of 10 tons pressing capacity. The 6" square solid steel plate pressing surfaces were designed with one heat and cool zone per platen and independent setpoints on each lower and upper platen for energy efficiency and to maintain consistent temperature throughout the molding process.
Each pressing surface is also equipped with a programmable fan to accelerate temperature reduction on the mold during the cooling cycle.
French said the press controller consists of a NEMA type enclosure and is mounted on the side of the press system. The new generation PLC microprocessor system features a 10.5" color screen interface, displaying each press function.
A red light mounted on top of the controller signifies the end of cycle alarm. The press controller shows a digital readout of press force for sampling concurrent with sampling of temperature. Press force is recorded in the system, as well as time and temperature history which can be used to confirm process repeatability.
Point of operation guarding is available and can be designed subject to the customer's process and the customer's apparatus to shuttle parts in and out of the presses.
All press systems are totally assembled, painted and tested for customer inspection prior to shipment. French said its in-house service technicians and engineers are available for start-up assistance, service and troubleshooting. Its service department has 24-hour accessibility by phone, reducing downtime concerns.
More information can be found at frenchoil.com.
The New Products blog showcases innovations suppliers are introducing to the rubber industry. It focuses on new materials, machinery, molds, testing equipment, software, and other goods and services that are intended to help manufacturers of finished rubber products. The blog will appear on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To have your product considered for the blog, contact Online Content Editor Erin Pustay Beaven at [email protected] or Editor Bruce Meyer at [email protected].