Barcode system can eliminate mix-ups during LSR moulding

Oftering, Austria –  Elmet, an Austrian operating system supplier for the injection moulding of two-component liquid silicone rubbers (LSR), has introduced a standardised barcode system for drum labelling and recognition.

The system, which is supplied as an integral part of the company’s TOP 5000 P dosing systems, is claimed to be unique in the industry.

LSR is a two-component reactive chemical. The two components, A and B, are usually shipped in separate drum containers that are, however, very similar in appearance. Mix-ups can have serious consequences.

The new identification system, developed jointly with Wacker, now virtually eliminates the possibility confusing the drums when replacing these, said Elmet.

The system is very simple: Wacker’s drums are supplied with banderoles, which, in addition to the conventional A or B label, also have a barcode running around them.

Optionally, Elmet provides its high-performance dosing system with a reading device coordinated to this barcode. The control unit of the TOP 5000 P only allows the pump to be immersed into the new drum if it recognizes the right code.

The system is currently available as a hand scanner, but future models will be designed as height-adjustable, mounted reading devices.

“If the machine is then started up, it inevitably causes a system downtime and extremely time-consuming cleaning work with a production outage that can take up to 24 hours. The resultant losses for the processor are always immensely high.”

Two other large manufacturers of raw materials for silicone injection moulding are currently looking at the possibility of introducing the system, he added and all others are being called on to adopt this uncomplicated code in order to protect their customers against the risk of confusion.

“We have intentionally not had this technical solution patented and therefore hope that our idea will be implemented quickly and comprehensively to the benefit of all LSR processors."

Elmet’s multi-component dosing system is designed for the large-series production of high-quality parts.

The system is said to be suitable for shot weights of less than 0.1g to several kg, for 200-litre and 20-litre containers and material viscosities of 9,000 mPas to 3,000,000 mPas.

These specifications are said to apply  even when there are significant viscosity differences between the A and B components.