Automation systems are developed wherever complex requirements need to be mastered. The automated transport and testing systems with integrated leakage testing of packaging and containers is therefore a component of our product portfolio, just like material supply and granulation systems, IML (in-mould labelling) and labelling systems are. Furthermore, we have implemented a large number of automation systems, including ones in our automotive projects. For example, the plastic tank blow-moulding process has been enhanced to including the handling of so-called carrier systems. The carrier supports key functional elements of the tank, such as fuel pumps and fill level indicators. A muting system checks that the configuration of these elements is correct on the carrier before the assembly is picked up by an IMD gripper (IMD: in-mould deflashing) and transferred to the clamping unit. The IMD gripper is installed on a 6-axis industrial robot for this. The gripper removes the tank and the waste following deflashing in the mould, hands over the carrier and transfers the tank and waste to their respective transport belts. The finished tank is weighed, and labelled for its future area of use using a thermal printer.
