Sumitomo (SHI) Demag is celebrating a significant milestone at Plastics Live Ireland with the 15th anniversary of its all-electric IntElect injection moulding machine. The company is showcasing its “Today. Tomorrow. Electric.” message, emphasising energy efficiency and processing precision.
Launched at K 2010, the IntElect series has undergone multiple advancements, offering substantial power savings and increased precision across diverse market segments. Technical Sales Manager Kris Thacker highlights the series’ popularity among Irish processors, attributing its success to exceptional torque, smooth dynamics, and cutting-edge direct drive motors engineered by Sumitomo in Japan.
Initially developed for medical and electrical precision markets, the IntElect set a new standard for energy-efficient injection moulding. Ireland, with its strong medical and bio-science sectors, was an early adopter, driven by decarbonisation efforts and the machine’s efficiency.
The first-generation IntElect led the industry with its repeatability, speed, and precision. Standard models were designed to replace hydraulic machines, while high-performance variants catered to fast-cycle moulding applications. The latest models often recoup their cost in less than two years through energy savings.
In 2015, the company introduced its smart NC5 colour touchscreen and the Active series of technology modules, including activeLock and activeFlowBalance, enhancing machine precision and reducing rejects. “Maintaining continuous quality throughout the machine’s lifecycle has been crucial,” says Kris Thacker.
The 2017 launch of the next-generation IntElect drive improved platen design and reduced machine footprint, using energy equivalent to boiling a kettle. Design innovations enhanced machine ergonomics and precision, allowing larger moulds on smaller machines, significantly cutting energy bills.
Continuous improvements led to the IntElect S series, targeting high-volume packaging, medical, and automotive markets. The series features optimised tool movement and injection speed, outperforming previous models. At K 2019, Sumitomo unveiled LSR and multicomponent versions, further advancing processing capabilities.
Adhering to ISO 13485 standards, the IntElect S 180-ton introduced new user parameters to prevent unauthorised process adjustments. The K 2025 event showcased the next phase in all-electric adoption, with LSR IntElect machines demonstrating scalability and sustainability.
The development of PAC-E marks a major shift, expanding all-electric applications beyond traditional confines. “By integrating all-electric IntElect processing insight with expertise in high-speed packaging and medical processing, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag remains a leader in all-electric innovations,” concludes Kris Thacker.
For more information, visit http://www.sumitomo-shi-demag.ie/.
