Next-Generation Servo-Hydraulic and Electric Injection Molding Machines Launch

Absolute Haitian, the exclusive distributor of Haitian and Zhafir injection molding machines in the U.S. and Canada, will present the fifth generation of the Haitian servo-hydraulic and Zhafir electric injection molding machines at NPE2024.

Absolute Haitian says the Generation 5 machines offer up to 20% more energy savings, decreased machine footprint and improved cycle times. Specifically, an electric screw drive for the screw-rotate function is now standard on the servo-hydraulic series with screw diameters up to 120 mm. Moving to a servomotor here as standard reduces overall energy usage by at least 20%, according to Haitian, while also improving processing stability. Generation 5 machines are also said to provide increased plasticizing rates for reduced cycle times and a smaller machine footprint. Absolute Haitian told Plastics Technology that the smaller footprint is the result of an optimized frame structure, with the weight of the machines also reduced thanks to a new platen design. The lower platen weight results in faster movements with a reduction of 20% in dry-cycle times.

From an intelligence perspective, Absolute Haitian says the newly improved OPC-UA standard KEBA control interface (with intelligent diagnostics and support control systems) applies AI algorithms and sensor technology to improve energy management, accuracy, consistency, diagnostics and assistance. It also includes intelligent energy management and real-time monitoring, and improved integration of auxiliary/peripheral equipment and machine monitoring systems, all from a large 15-inch screen.

To introduce Generation 5 to North America, Absolute Haitian will display four machines at its booth: Zhafir Zeres 5 electric, Zhafir Venus 5 all-electric (photo), Haitian Mars 5 servo-hydraulic and a Haitian Jupiter 5 servo-hydraulic two-platen. The 214-ton Zhafir Zeres will mold a medical IV filter from ABS using an 8-by-8 cavity stack mold in an 18-second cycle. The parts, with weights of 1.5 and 2.2g, will be removed by a Haitian Hilectro top-entry robot.

The 101-ton Zhafir Venus 5 all-electric will mold 3.2 g syringe barrels from Tritan copolyester with a 4-cavity tool and an 18-sec cycle. The 315-ton Haitian Mars 5 servo-hydraulic will mold a consumer storage container in PP from a single cavity in a 50-second cycle, with the parts removed by a Haitian Hilectro top-entry robot. Finally, the 731-ton Haitian Jupiter 5 servo-hydraulic two-platen machine will mold PC/ABS automotive out panel from a 2-cavity mold in a 60-sec cycle with part removal by a Haitian Hilectro robot.

At NPE 2024, the Haitian Group will introduce its machine tool lines with its first ever appearance at a trade show in the U.S. Previously, the metalcutting machines were sold in Asia, Europe, Mexico and South America. Distribution in the U.S. and Canada will be handled by the Absolute Group with full-scale distribution in 2024. In Orlando, the booth will feature the VMC850 vertical machining center. Haitian believes this model, along with the VMC1000 II, will be of interest to moldmakers in the plastics industry.