Netstal press controls gain 'smart buttons'

Elios & Elion These two series of injection molding machines from Netstal encompass units with clamping forces from about 90 tons to about 840 tons. The Elios line is suited for making cups, pails, lids, deli containers, flower pots and containers that incorporate in-mold labeling. The Elion series is designed for making closures, packaging and medical components.

What's new? The Smart Operation option for the machines' aXos controller. With the new control option, operators use four new "smart buttons" to operate the machine. The controller now features a preconfigurable dashboard on the main screen that shows process information and application-specific instructions. Existing machines that use an aXos controller can be retrofitted with the Smart Operation option.

Benefits Simpler operation. For example, by pressing just three buttons, an operator can turn on the machine, ready it for production and start production. This streamlining does not affect the aXos controller's ability to program a wide range of injection molding applications. Additionally, the controller guides the machine operator through every step of the production process, preventing operator errors and making worker training easier. Smart Operation greatly reduces the volume of written process descriptions, checklists and work instructions needed at the machine.

Krauss-Maffei Corp., Florence, Ky., 859-283-0200, www.netstal.com