PC-servo-based control enhances performance, flexibility of in-mould labelling system

October 24, 2019 6:42 pm

In-mould labelling (IML) is the ideal solution for today’s customer requirements in the plastics industry, especially in the packaging segment. Companies need high-quality, durable machines with maximum availability that can produce a wide range of packaging designs with great flexibility and minimal cycle times. To implement such systems efficiently, Swiss specialty machine manufacturer Beck Automation implements PC-based control and drive technology from Beckhoff as its standard automation technology. In each processing step, the IML system takes six labels at a time from a magazine and places them into the open mould of the injection moulding machine.

According to Nino Zehnder, the worldwide availability of Beckhoff technology and support is also important for a globally active company like Beck Automation: “Since our systems are extremely durable, we must also make sure that the components are available for the long term. Even after 10 years or more, spare parts and newer, yet fully compatible products are still readily available.” Another factor is the exceptional modularity and scalability of PC-based control, adds Christoph Jenni: “Depending on the machine’s size and features, the control technology can be optimally adjusted without requiring much additional engineering. For example, we can easily adapt the number of servo axes to the respective requirements. And unlike other systems, PC-based control offers an unlimited number of I/O channels, which leaves all options open.” Servo drive technology increases machine flexibility Beck Automation also employs Beckhoff servo drive technology throughout its new six-way IML system. Its easy configuration results in significant benefits, particularly during setup changeovers.

The machine features four AM8000 series servomotors, which are controlled by TwinCAT 3 NC PTP software via two single-channels AX5103, and AX5118 Servo Drives or a two-channel AX5203. The AM8063 servomotor with 29 Nm of standstill torque makes for a highly dynamic main axis. There are also two AM8032 (2.37 Nm) and one AM8033 (3.22 Nm) equipped with holding brake, which are used to implement, among other things, the shuttle motion in order to guide the plastic lids along the inspection system with a sufficiently short cycle time, says Nino Zehnder.