K2013: Engel puts focus on automation with unveiling of control system

At K 2013 Engel has unveiled its recently launched control system, which it says has been developed due to the increase in demand for turnkey systems that incorporate automation solutions.

During the company’s press conference, CEO Peter Neumann spoke about Engel’s focus on its ongoing automation strategy, where robots are integrated into the production process for conformity of cycle times and ease of system operation.

“Our strategy for automation is to grow even faster than we do in our machine business,” he commented.

Neumann explained that even though the different components of automation systems are not high-end products, the company considers it important to be able to tailor a complete package and system for an individual customer’s needs.

“We really do see automation as a very important part of our strategy going forward, all manufactured ourselves, including conveyor belts, robots and other components. In order to ensure that these systems work in the best way they can we need an effective control system – and that is why we are presenting the CC 300 as part of our showcase at K 2013.”

Engel says the CC 300 will make the use of injection moulding machines and integrated system solutions safer, more user-friendly and more efficient through allowing IMMs and manufacturing cells to be controlled according to tasks such as mould changing, or according to functions such as injecting.

Also in the conference, Neumann said that there was a growing demand for machinery from Asia and the USA, but Europe is still an “important market.”

The company is also focusing its K 2013 showing on its work in the area of composite part production.