Automatic composite molding system reduces production costs

TMP Inc., A Division of French designs recently custom designed an automatic composite molding system with a series of four hydraulic presses for heating and cooling, integrated with a central hydraulic and electrical system that operates all presses independently.

A sophisticated, custom designed automation system moves the customer’s mold through the press system, increasing their production rates and reducing production costs. 

The system features two heated presses, each with stainless steel, electrically heated platens, drilled and fitted with cartridge type heating elements for heating up to 1000°F and 550°F, respectively. Also included are two water-cooled presses fitted with platens drilled for zoned passage cooling that can operate individually, with valving to allow adjustment of water flow. 

A central, self-contained hydraulic system is designed for fast close and opening of the presses to increase cycle speed. The press operator can adjust tonnage and pressure rise for precise part molding. A proportional valve, set and adjusted on the operator interface, controls the hydraulic pressure for each of the four presses. 

The automatic hydraulic press system features mold workstations prior to the pre-heat press, which allows operators to lay-up work and stage molds. A mold return conveyor and mold elevators raise and lower the customer’s molds at each end of the system. A mold transfer system carries the mold through all four presses.