Compact TCU Retains Power, Precision and Configurability of Bigger Systems
NPE2024: Conair’s MicroTemp Thermolator temperature control unit (TCU) is its smallest ever measuring just 14.7 ×y 15.6 ×y 18 inches.
Redesigned for medical, electronics, and other processors working with the smallest injection molding machines, small precision molds, or tight production spaces such as cleanrooms, Conair’s latest and smallest MicroTemp temperature control unit (TCU) is compact enough at 14.7 by 15.6 by 18 inches to fit beneath a small injection-molding machine. Conair says that despite being its smallest-ever TCU, the MicroTemp retains the power, precision and configurability of full-sized Conair TCUS.
Available in two models, the MTC-B (Basic) is equipped with a 4-inch LCD display, while the premium MTC-T or “Touch” model features a 4-inch color touchscreen HMI that includes Conair’s common control interface. Conair says this interface simplifies training thanks to contextual help screens, and links directly to SmartServices, Conair’s cloud-based Industry 4.0 platform.
Standard features for both models include a direct-injection, single-zone design that can heat or cool water between 40°F (4°C) and 250°F (121°C). Both units feature compact cabinets, standard 1/3 or ½ hp pumps, durable Incaloy 3- or 6-kW heaters, along with adaptive maximum set points, PID controls, programmable set point displays, a low-pressure resume feature and on-screen diagnostics.
For medical and electronics molders, the premium MTC-T Touch unit offers user-configurable, energy-saving process control capabilities that can assist in production validation and troubleshooting. These include auto-relief warm-up and cooling, estimated flow display, auto restart, low pressure auto-resume and key performance indicator (KPI) trending. Other key features include an automatic phase-detection circuit and a built-in pressure transducer to eliminate the need for external pressure-monitoring gauges.
MTC-T Touch also features password-protected security, mold-specific recipe programming and storage, and a range of communications features, including Modbus TCP and OPC-UA via Ethernet, and SPI via RS-485. In addition, the MTC-T offers plug-and-play remote monitoring and control, with KPI trending, using Conair’s SmartServices cloud-based monitoring and measurement platform.
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