Thermoforming.

Look for a new crop of continuous in-line formers at the show that are said to be the first ones able to form preprinted films or composite materials. Another new model has the dexterity to form either cups or lids. Also, a new sheet-fed machine adds a host of new features designed to cut cycle times and ease product changeovers.

Form 'value-added' films

Eliminate downstream printing of formed PP lids with the new FC series machine from OMV of Italy (U.S. office in Genoa City, Wis.). The all-servo unit can form preprinted sheet without distorting the graphic. Special sheet-indexing and preclamping technology reportedly provides precise registration in the forming station. The contact-heating oven prevents sagging of the sheet to curb distortion. The FC75 model has a 740 x 400 mm platen and produces 118-mm-diam. lids at 20,000-22,000/hr. The larger FC86 model with 820 x 600 mm platen makes 35,000-38,000 lids/hr. It can run in-line with extrusion or with roll stock. It can also make food or medical trays.

Another new machine designed to thermoform parts from preprinted sheet is the Graphic machine from Z.M.D. International Inc., Long Beach, Calif. (see PT, Aug. '98, p. 20).

Thermoforming composite materials is said to be possible with a new machine from Z.M.D. that combines unique forming techniques with high-temperature convection heaters to do the job. The special machine was initially developed for the aerospace industry.

Make small or large quantities of cups or lids economically on one machine with the new Swing line of continuous formers from Gabler of Germany (represented by FGH Systems Inc., Denville, N.J.). The new model processes PP, PVC, PS, ABS, PET, and OPS film more than 2 mm thick using top and optional bottom heaters. Forming area is 430 x 180 mm, max. part height is 125 mm, and the clamp has 7.5-ton force. The machine also has integrated stacking and counting. At the show, it will produce both cups and lids with two one-row combined forming/punching tools that have four cavities each. Gabler also redesigned its M91 continuous former with a new stacking and counting device and a crane for quick mold changes.

F36 is a new addition to OMV's Crystal line of thermoformers designed to run crystal PS without K Resin. They can also run PP. The new unit has a 740 x 360 mm platen area.

Trimming advances

Trim very complex parts in-line with a new robotic system being developed by Z.M.D. It features a six-axis robot integrated with a computerized 8-ft table. Automated trimming occurs in a protected area while loading/unloading takes place in a separate part of the system.

Adjustable model saves cycle time

The UA 1011 from Adolf Illig, Heilbronn, Germany is said to be the first sheet-fed thermoformer with an adjustable mold base and adjustable upper and lower clamp frame. The base plate eliminates air, which is evacuated from below the segment carrier plate for positive forming. The result is faster build-up of vacuum. An air shower integrated into the clamp frame helps reduce cooling times up to 40%, while new high-temperature ceramic heater elements cut heating time 20%. Motor drives on the heater are said to cut cycle times by 3 sec. The sheet-clamp design saves 5 mm of material per side. The machine can form with pressure or vacuum and is offered with pneumatic or hydraulic drive.