Magnetic mold mounting systems have emerged as a compelling alternative to traditional bolt-on mechanical clamping or hydraulic mold-clamping approaches, primarily due to their rapid mold change capabilities. Suppliers of magnetic clamping systems are continuously enhancing their designs to further minimize downtime, reduce labor costs associated with mold changeovers, and enhance operator safety.

Suppliers of permanent electromagnetic systems achieve mold clamping or unclamping by altering the polarity of the magnet through a brief electric current charge applied to a specially designed platen. This process extends the magnetic field of the permanent magnet system several millimeters from the platen into an adapter plate attached to the mold. During mold unclamping, the magnetic field retracts into the platen. The consistent and uniform force generated by the magnet securely clamps the platen to the steel mold adapter plate, preventing mold deflection without interfering with other tool components such as cores, ejector pins, or thermocouples. Notably, magnetic clamping systems only engage when a charge is applied, ensuring that power outages or lightning strikes do not affect the mounting force.

Advanced Features and Successful Implementations

These magnetic clamping systems are capable of securely holding molds weighing tens of tons and are designed for mounting using locator-ring patterns approved by standards organizations such as SPI, Euromap, and Japanese Industrial Standards. They offer compatibility with non-standard tool configurations and do not rely on bolt-hole patterns, requiring only a standard locator ring for operation. To achieve peak magnetic holding force, suppliers recommend using adapter back-plates composed of non-alloyed tool steel, ensuring they are flat, clean, and free of oil, dirt, and rust.

Suppliers like ROEMHELD North America have successfully installed magnetic clamping systems in thousands of horizontal and vertical presses across North America over the past few decades.

Enhancements for High-Temperature Environments

The Hilma Division of ROEMHELD North America based in Fenton, Missouri, has introduced the M-TECS 130 magnetic clamping system designed to withstand operating temperatures up to 266 degrees Fahrenheit. This updated system now delivers up to 20 percent more clamping force compared to older designs. Additionally, the company offers the M-TECS 210 (rated for 410 degrees Fahrenheit operating temperature) for rubber compression molding operations.

The company unveiled the new M2C controller for the M-TECS 130 system at NPE, boasting improved safety features and enhanced serviceability compared to its predecessor. The M2C controller provides more sensitive and responsive mold-movement detection, monitors current to the platen and system temperatures, and offers operators greater insight into the clamping system's status and performance.

Hilma employs long-pole technology with double magnets to increase clamp force, enabling rapid mold changes without the need for retooling. The custom-designed clamping systems distribute magnetic force evenly across the clamping surface, significantly reducing tool wear. The system's design and magnetic forces can be tailored to specific applications, with mold plates featuring a thickness of 55mm and magnetic penetration of 15mm to 20mm. Each specific magnet generates a clamping force of 256 pounds per square inch. The M-TECS system includes two electro-permanent magnet plates, a control system, remote control unit, and a complete set of cables for connecting to the injection machine. In addition to magnetic systems, the company also offers hydraulic, mechanical-electric, and hydro-mechanical clamping systems.