K 2022 Smart hot-runner control improves part quality and performance

Günther Hot Runner Technology will present a new control system at the K trade fair from 19 to 26 October 2022 in Düsseldorf. The Blue Master series offers exceptional control performance, comprehensive connectivity and smart operation.

Optimum control properties, comprehensive connectivity and smart operation were key development goals for the new Günther control technology. It was also required to be compact, to form the basis for future expansions and, in addition, to be cost-sensitive. These goals were fully achieved with the new Blue Master controller series. The new temperature control units of the Blue Master series will initially be launched on the market in a Blue Master compact and Blue Master pro variant.

The Blue Master compact 3 (3 control loops) and Blue Master compact 6 (6 control loops) are designed as controllers for smaller applications or for use in service areas. Both units feature adaptive optimisation of the control, i.e. the unit adapts its control behaviour to the connected load without user intervention. The setting of PID parameters is thus no longer necessary. The control remains stable even with the smallest loads. Four operating modes are available per zone (control, master mode, monitor).

In the industrial sector, location-independent intuitive operation of control devices with the help of an app can increase resource efficiency. Günther has also developed an app for operating complex situations that is easy to use even for users without injection moulding training. A user-oriented intro with all explanations, assistance functions as well as a graphical temperature display that is easier for the user to interpret makes operation intuitive. “We already have the modern interfaces in our pockets or on our arms. We can operate smartphones or tablets with ease. So why not simply operate the controller with a smartphone?” says Christoph Münch, project manager for control technology at Günther Heisskanaltechnik. “All measurement data can likewise be uploaded quickly and securely to a cloud and used for documentation or more detailed evaluation.”

Premium controller for 24(+) control zones

For the safe control of complex hot runner systems, the company will present four new Blue Master pro variants at the trade fair. The devices are suitable for 6 to 24 control loops. They can be operated either directly on the device or via a browser. The classic table-top controllers with built-in display have a comprehensive range of functions and, in addition to operation via the 7-inch display, can also be controlled via a browser using a tablet. Of course, this would not require a built-in display. Control via control desk is also possible without any problems. The network connection is made via Ethernet or Wifi. An assistance tool not only supports the setup of new moulds, but also enables, for example, group management of high-cavity systems or multi-component applications and much more.

A key to the networking of temperature control is the standardisation of data interfaces. The new Blue Master pro range of hot runner controllers fully supports Euromap 82.2. This standard describes the interface between injection moulding machines and hot runner controllers for data exchange. It is based on the OPC Unified Architecture interface (OPC UA), a communication standard for secure and reliable data exchange in the field of industrial automation.

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