55-Ton Electric Press Targets Precision Jobs

The Roboshot series of all-electric machines from Fanuc Ltd. in Japan has gained a new precision model, the Alpha-50iap. Introduced at the recent Platex Osaka show in Japan, the unit shares the same general specifications as Fanuc’s Alpha-50ia model but has a few new features. A sealed bearing design on the tiebars is said to maintain tighter control of the mold centerline. The injection nozzle is mounted on a special nozzle block that reportedly distributes forces more evenly in order to minimize mold deflection. (Fanuc machines are sold here by Milacron Fanuc, Batavia, Ohio.) Fanuc also upgraded its Supershot 100i model. Introduced last year at NPE 2000, it is the first machine to use super-fast linear electric motors. Modifications to the 110-tonner include slightly quicker acceleration from zero to top speed of 2000 mm/sec in 0.015 sec. Fanuc also redesigned the injection unit for reduced vibration and noise, as well as easier access to components for maintenance.