Side entry iml robot

Types of side entry IML robots

One popular method of moulding and decorating plastic products is the in-mould label insertion technique, which is done with the help of the IML (In-Mould Labeling) robots. An essential part of the movement and placement of the parts and product during this process is the entry of these robots into the side of the machine or mould. The side entry IML robots come in various types to cater to the distinct requirements of the industry.

• Flex IML Carousels: These side entry IML robots are designed to offer great flexibility. They can easily handle the stock of various shapes and sizes without requiring time-consuming changeovers. Moreover, the IML carousels are available in different models that suit distinct levels of automation and production demands.
• IML F Robotic Systems: The IML F robotic systems are highly efficient and developed to automate the process of inserting labels into the moulds during the injection moulding procedure. These robot systems come with different models to fit various production needs. Their design ensures fast and accurate label insertion, streamlining production processes while enhancing product quality with precise and consistent label placement.
• IML F5 robots with Carton Pickup: These robots are designed specifically for high-capacity production lines. They can swiftly pick up and handle cartons containing labels or finished products, which improves the efficiency of the labelling and packaging process. With the capability to handle multiple cartons at once, these side entry IML F5 robots help to reduce bottlenecks in production and streamline workflow.
• Universal IML Robots: The universal robots have great multi-tasking abilities. They can perform several jobs on top of label insertion, such as stacking, sorting, and unloading. Their versatility also helps streamline production lines and reduce the need for multiple types of machinery.
• Complete Vision IML Systems: These systems have all the necessary components to provide label accuracy and product identification. They can offer complete solutions for companies that require high-speed production with perfect label placement and product counting or tracking.
• Side Entry Cranes: The entry cranes have the primary job of moving and placing heavy objects in the mould for the labelling to take place. These machines are crucial in supporting the weight and position of items and insert them with precision in areas that are limited or small.
• Multi-tasking Robots: As the name indicates, these side entry robots can perform more than one task. They carry out the label insertion as well as other jobs such as stacking, unloading, and sorting. These models streamline the manufacturing process and boost productivity.

Specification and maintenance

• Maximizing the efficiency: The robots are designed to maximize the efficiency of the mold by allowing entry from the side. They often have a sleek profile that enables them to fit quickly into the mold cavities with little to no interference with the molding process. Minimizing cycle times is crucial in mass production, and side-entry IML robots excel in reducing cycle times to enhance overall productivity.
• Flexible configuration: These robots offer flexible configuration options to meet different production needs—models and payloads var for the robot's reach, height, and weight capacities. Additionally, the software used to program side-entry IML robots can adapt to changing product shapes, sizes, and quantities, allowing manufacturers to optimize their production lines quickly.
• Gripper types and customization: Customization options are vast regarding speed, precision, and design for gripper types, including vacuum cups, finger grippers, and a combination of the two. Businesses can select the kind of gripper best for their needs on product handling, feature deployment, and personalization.

Robot maintenance:

Regular robot maintenance helps ensure optimal performance, reduce downtime, and prolong the lifespan of the robot. Operators should develop a maintenance schedule based on the IML robot's usage frequency, intensity, and manufacturer recommendations. To eliminate the risk of electrical shocks, detach the robot from its power source. Now that the robot is turned off, operators can start the cleaning process. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any dust, debris, or particles from the robot's surfaces, joints, and sensors. Gently wipe the robot's surfaces with a microfiber cloth or a soft, damp cloth and a mild cleaning solution.

Lubrication is an essential part of IML robot maintenance. Lubricate the robot's joints, guide rails, and bearings with the recommended lubricant by the manufacturer to ensure smooth operation and reduce friction. After lubricating the joints and guide rails, inspect the robot for any signs of wear, damage, or loose parts, and promptly address any issues discovered during the inspection to prevent mishaps during the robot's operation.

Path optimization and software updates are also critical elements of an IML's maintenance and performance-parts solutions. Users should consider optimizing the IML robot's paths to reduce travel time and improve operational efficiency. Manufacturers often release software updates to enhance the robot's performance and add new features. Users should stay informed about the latest updates and apply the software updates when necessary.

Applications of side entry IML robots

Side entry IML robots are widely used in the food, drink, and packaging sectors, where they offer efficiency and responsiveness. Here are some specific applications where side entry IML robots are effectively used:

• Efficient production lines in the packaging sector often use Side entry IML robots to insert labels into molded containers or other packaging products. These robots can quickly pick and place labels into the mold together with the product, enhancing labeling accuracy and speed.
• In the food sector, Side entry IML robots automate the labeling process for containers like yogurt cups and deli containers. They ensure that labels are applied precisely and consistently, even on production lines with high volumes.
• In the beverage sector, Side entry IML robots are used to label containers such as bottles, cups, and jars. The automation of this procedure enables efficient production, which is crucial for it.
• Pharmaceuticals and medical Side entry IML robots frequently handle the filling of medicine, bottle, and jar containers. They are critical players in ensuring that the medical containers are labeled quickly and accurately so that the production meets industry standards and traceability requirements.
• Cosmetics: Side entry IML robots also fill the role of automating the labeling of containers for cosmetic products. They ensure that labeling is done efficiently and faithfully, which is vital for products like perfumes, lotions, and make-up.

How to choose side entry IML robots

• Production requirements analysis:

  Perform the needs analysis and select the appropriate litter side entry robot according to the moulding machine capacity, the size and weight of the product, the packaging Imol, and the degree of automation required.

• Robot performance:

  Consider the robot's loading/unloading speed, operation accuracy, and bearing capacity to ensure they meet the production line's efficiency and quality requirements.

• Flexibility and scalability:

  Choose a robot that is adaptable and expandable for different production requirements, such as changing gripper types or adjusting operation sequences.

• Ease of integration:

  Select robots that are easy to integrate and compatible with existing production lines and automation systems, with the necessary interfaces and integration support.

• Safety function:

  Ensure the robot has appropriate safety features such as emergency stop devices and safety barriers to protect the safety of operators and equipment.

• Reliability and maintainability:

  Consider the robot's reliability and maintainability, focusing on its robustness, maintainable design, and availability of maintenance services and support.

• Cost and budget considerations:

  Balance the performance, function, and cost of the robot to make a choice that meets the budget and business objectives.

Side entry IML robot FAQ

Q1: How powerful are entry-level robots?

A1: Side entry robots used for IML secretion are not entry-level but rather advanced kinds of robots. This is because the robot has to perform the job of moving a high-level capacity of around 300 tons with the aid of a servo motor that has the capacity of 30Nm, alongside other advanced technology.

Q2: Can the side entry IML robot work with different types of packaging?

A2: Yes, the side entry IML robot is quite versatile. It can be used to work with different kinds of packages, such as containers, cups, and tubs, with varying shapes and sizes, as long as the appropriate fixture is set in place.

Q3: What are the benefits of using a side entry IML robot in an injection molding process?

A3: The use of side entry in-mold labeling robots comes with its fair share of benefits. They increase production speed; they improve the accuracy of labeling, enhance the quality of labels, reduce labor costs, and increase efficiency, among other advantages.

Q4: Can the side entry IML robot be upgraded or expanded in the future?

A4: Depending the manufacturer, it may be possible to upgrade or expand the robot in the future. Some robots may be able to have additional modules fitted to them to improve their functionality, while others may not.