Macrofinishing machine from C.S.I. replaces cryogenic pre-deburring of elastomers
The new MF-15L macrofinishing machine from C.S.I. Centro Servizi Industriali automatically separates injection-molded elastomer components from the sprue distributor and overflow channels without the need for prior cooling in liquid nitrogen.
In the injection molding of elastomer parts, for example O-rings and moulded parts, sprue distributors and overflow channels were usually removed manually after demoulding or cryogenically separated in a drum in a classic cold deburring system by blasting with abrasive. The new MF-15 macrofinishing system from C.S.I. automates this process. It works without liquid nitrogen and therefore significantly reduces the amount of post-processing required. It replaces manual deburring and eliminates the cryogenic separation of sprues. The modular system works automatically and largely autonomously: once one or more pressings have been placed on a loading conveyor, no manual work is required and the parts leave the system separated and largely free of sprue residue and coarse burrs.
Deburring process without nitrogen reduces energy requirements
The pressings are tipped from the feed belt into the work bowl in batches. Its base, which is equipped with different knobs, rotates and swirls the material intensively. This causes the molded parts to separate from the sprue. At the same time, large burrs and over-sharps are removed. After around 20 to 40 seconds, the process is complete and the parts are separated from the sprue residue in a sieve section. Any small burrs that may remain are removed in a second step by vibratory grinding or nitrogen deburring, as with manual or cryogenic pre-treatment. Dieter Adamkiewicz, partner at C.S.I.: "The MF-15L only requires electricity for operation (approx. 5 to 8 kW). In addition to the process costs, the new system also reduces the environmental impact resulting from the production and consumption of nitrogen and polycarbonate blasting medium. This also has a direct impact on our customers' carbon footprint." The system has already proven its worth with one of the first customers. Mario Vollbehr, Managing Director of Bode GmbH in Henstedt-Ulzburg: "The advantages of the MF 15L have convinced us. The comparatively low investment has quickly paid for itself. We will continue to expand this technology."
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