Plastics Technology - Dedicated to improving Plastics Processing.
Issue link: http://pty.epubxp.com/i/707262
After 20 years of singular focus on plastics feeding and blending, we are still looking for new ways to innovate. We pride ourselves on engineering systems that are easy to operate and simple to maintain. We ensure that down time doesn't interfere with Just In Time manufacturing. Details. Details. They are what separate a Plastrac from a mere blender. ● Fast on the fly color changes ● Easy clean out to reduce down time ● 250 recipe storage ● Ethernet capable 610-356-3000 • Plastrac.com A new-generation controller for what's reported to be the world's most widely used gravimetric blender has far greater data- processing capability than the previous controller, substantially enhancing communications with other devices in an Industry 4.0 setting and offering centralized control of both blending and loading. So states Maguire Products Inc., Aston, Pa., which will introduce the controller at this fall's K 2016 show in Germany. While back- ward-compatible with earlier control systems, the new Maguire 4088 controller is said to operate at seven times the speed of the Maguire 1212 controller, while possessing eight times the memory and 45 times the resolution of the load cells used to weigh batch ingredients. Options for operators include a keypad/digital thumbwheel interface or a new touchscreen that is removable for remote operation. Standard with the touchscreen is built-in software for a conveying system for loading multiple materials into a blender and metering the combined materials into a processing machine. The increased capacity of the 4088 controller and the new design of its software provide faster readings and more storage and make it easier to track down problems and make changes, notes the company. In comparison with the Maguire 1212 controller, data processing in the new system is increased from 16- to 32-bit, speed from 16 to 120 MHz, and memory space from 12 KB to 96 KB. Flash memory now is rated at 512 KB internal and 8 MB external, RAM at 96 KB internal and 32 MB external. Increased memory makes possible more storage for data logs and ability to handle larger communication buffers. The Maguire 4088 controller comes with a five-year warranty, and updates to production software are free for the life of the blender. The removable touchscreen interface available with the new 4088 controller provides a graphical interface on each screen with readily recognizable icons for every blender module, eliminating dropdown menus in favor of direct, touch- activated access to the module requiring adjustment. The blender modules represented by touchscreen graphics include the various hoppers for resin, regrind, colorants, and additives; the weigh chamber; and the mixing chamber. There is similarly extensive graphical representation of the various modules of a loading system, such as pumps and receivers. 610 459-4300 • maguire.com BLENDING Next-Generation Controls for Gravimetric Blenders @plastechmag 59 Plastics Technology N E W P R O D U C T S F O R P L A S T I C S P R O C E S S I N G