The world is constantly changing. New trends and technologies are emerging seemingly every day. In recent years, automation has become one of the hottest topics in manufacturing, playing an increasingly prominent role throughout the industry – and injection molding is no exception. In order to become an industry leader, it’s essential to implement cutting-edge technologies like automation.
This blog will explain the impact of automation in manufacturing, how automation can be utilized in injection molding, what the benefits are, and how Chemtech has positioned itself as an automation trailblazer.
Automation in Manufacturing
Automation is an umbrella term that contains many distinct technologies, so automation will present itself in different ways at different manufacturers. Each company will take on the technologies that make the most sense for its specific facility. The most common uses for automation in manufacturing are robotics and software integration.
When you think of automation, robots are likely the first image that comes to mind. And that’s for good reason; factory robots have been in use since 1961. Since then, they have taken over many parts of the assembly line. Three-axis or six-axis robotic arms can be preferable to human labor in situations that demand heavy lifting or high volumes, particularly in picking-and-sorting situations, because they can implement repeatable processes at a faster rate than a human worker can.
Robotics technology has moved past robotic arms and into new areas that integrate software. For example, manufacturers can apply vision systems that allow robots to scan, or “see,” their surroundings and perform more advanced tasks than sorting and picking; these robots can recognize and select components from bins of assorted materials and inspect the components for quality control with micro-level precision.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is also widely used today. In manufacturing, IoT can sync a factory’s robotics with the rest of its operations by uploading data from each robot into one network that also contains all other operational data. This increased connectivity enables manufacturers to easily track their processes from start to finish and implement solutions to increase efficiency.
Applications for Automation in Injection Molding
So, how does all of this apply to injection molding? Automation tools can ensure that injected parts are properly made and measured. They can also perform stringent quality control checks. By replacing manual labor with automated robotics in key areas of the assembly line, automated machines can prevent defects by maintaining precision and handling delicate parts at a level that human labor cannot match.
There are a number of specific ways that automation can streamline production:
- Machine tending: this includes implementing automated tools to complete standard tasks like unloading parts and removing runners.
- Insert molding: automated tools can safely and accurately add inserts during the manufacturing process.
- Overmolding: automated tools can quickly move injected molded parts between machines and combine them without damaging either part.
- Post-processing: plastic injection manufacturers can employ automated machines to handle standard post-processing tasks like trimming excess material from a part, evenly dispensing a sealant, quality control checks, cleanup, and even some packaging and shipping tasks like sealing parts for shipment and moving them into containers.
Benefits of Automation in Injection Molding
In a world where governments are beginning to legislate waste reduction efforts and customers are looking for new ways to promote sustainability, it’s imperative to implement automation tools to curb waste and tighten up manufacturing processes.
Automation tools can easily reduce waste in injection molding manufacturing. By installing robotic tools that improve part consistency, manufacturers will see cost savings stem from an overall boost in consistency and quality that reduces the number of bad batches and material waste.
Cost savings is another area of concern for manufacturers; according to the Institute for Supply Management, “supply prices rose 4.1% in 2023 and have spiked a whopping 25% since 2020.” Implementing automated tools will cut costs by creating a more efficient workflow that produces parts faster. This is particularly beneficial for the many industries served by injection molders that require a high-volume output. Automation also saves on the cost of labor, which is projected to rise each year. Automated tools reduce the amount of human labor necessary in manufacturing, thus reducing the amount of labor expenses.
How Chemtech Plastics Streamlines Production with Automation
Automation plays a huge role at Chemtech. We recognize the potential for this technology to revolutionize our workflow, and we are always seeking out new ways to add it into our processes.
We have established an in-house automation team, led by an experienced automation engineer. Our automation team implements these technologies in a number of ways, such as incorporating robots, conveyors, and enhanced safety systems.
At any given time, we have multiple automation cells, with varying levels of sophistication, in operation at our facility. As much as this benefits our clients, it’s also beneficial to our highly skilled employees by allowing them to utilize their time more productively.
Chemtech Plastics is on a mission to champion the highest quality injection molding products by efficiently delivering precision technology – automation foremost amongst them – through absolute reliability and support to our clients. We are the solution to all of your injection molding needs. Contact us today to learn how we can support your industry.
