No Platens, No Problem: Mold-Masters and Partner Mold Without Press at K 2025

Moldmaker Primaform AG, Thun, Switzerland turned to its supplier, Mold-Masters, to commercialize a new concept for self-contained molding of small, precision parts without all the trappings of a conventional injection molding machine. In this setup, dubbed Integra, the heaters, controls and temperature control unit (TCU) are integrated into a machine base, onto which sits the specially designed Primaform tool. Above that, a Mold-Masters E-Multi auxiliary injection unit provides melt preparation and injection, with pellets fed by an integrated Koch Technik dryer/feeder.

Debuting at K 2025, the Integra system molded four 0.25g threaded medical caps in a 9.7-second cycle from a 1g shot size. Rémy Pophillat, program manager, Mold-Masters Europa GmbH told Plastics Technology that the system could run faster and with more output, up to 16 cavities. The mold applied side-gated Mold-Masters hot runners and an unscrewing motion with parts ejected from one side of Primaform’s tool into a chute after a series of internal movements within the mold but without the A and B halves ever separating.

All cell controls are handled by a single HMI, with all movements servo-driven, boosting the system’s precision and energy efficiency. While the system at the show was staged in a vertical format, Mold-Masters said horizontal orientation would also be possible, with the ability to apply larger E-Multi units for greater shot sizes. Not counting the TCU, the Integra’s power consumption amounted to only 2.2 kW/hr. The system’s self-contained nature, small footprint and application of servodrives also make it suitable for cleanroom applications.