PCR-Optimized Hot Runner System

Oerlikon HRSflow has developed specialized hot runners for processing PCR compounds. To exhibit the system’s capabilities, the company used two applications—a fruit crate and a household compositng bin—with the crates molded at K 2022 in Haitian’s booth.

Commercially, the fruit crates are produced by Mundimold using an optimized PE compound from Spain’s APS. The reclaimed material is based in part on recycled Tetra Pak card-board packaging. At K 2022, a two-platen servo-hydraulic Haitian Jupiter with 500 tons clamping force molded the crates, utilizing a four-drop servo-controlled FLEXflow valve gate hot runner system from Oerlikon HRSflow.

Oerlikon HRSflow says optimum gate quality is ensured by its new patent-pending TTC cooling bushing, which prevents needle sticking even with short cycle times. The four drop Flexflow servodriven valve gate comes from the company’s Ga series. The crates weigh 457g (1 lb) and measures 40 by 30 by 16 cm (16 by 12 by 6 in.) with a wall thickness of 1.5 mm (0.6 in.).  

For Bokashi Organko Essential, the specialized hot runners are used to mold an airtight sealable bucket for home composting. The 775g (1.7 lb) part with 2.5 mm (0.1 in.) wall thickness is produced from PCR polymers using an Oerlikon HRSflow two-drop hot runner. Optimized for frequent color changes, the system designed so that remaining decontaminations in the recyclate do not cause damage, streaks or flow marks.