BMB to mould medical PET tubes at Mecspe

At Mecspe 2025, scheduled to take place at BolognaFiere from 5 to 7 March, BMB will showcase an eKW 16Pi/700 ECO Hybrid injection moulding machine set up to produce medical PET tubes. This application demands precision and repeatability during the process, while ensuring perfect transparency as well as adherence to specific weight and dimensional requirements. Thanks to accumulator-assisted injection, plasticising, and a clamping unit powered by direct-drive motors, the Italian manufacturer positions the eKW 16Pi/700 ECO Hybrid as the ideal solution for this application in terms of productivity and energy efficiency.

The machine on display will feature the following specifications: clamping force of 1,600 kN, opening force of 160 kN, mould opening stroke of 550 mm, platen dimensions of 750 x 750 mm, distance between tie-bars of 510 x 510 mm, screw diameter (L/D=23) of 45 mm, injection volume of 342 cm3, injection flow rate of 1,400 cm3/s, and specific injection pressure of 2,160 bar. As for process data, the moulded tube will weigh 4.6 g, with a diameter of 13 mm and a length of 100 mm. The machine will be equipped with a 16-cavity mould (Otto Hofstetter), achieving an 8.8-s cycle time, along with automation systems from Star Automation Europe, auxiliary equipment from Plastic Systems, and a cooling system from Blauwer.

In addition, the injection moulding machine will feature the iQ Pump system, which reduces energy consumption by up to 50%, as well as oil usage and noise pollution. This system maximises the efficiency of the hydraulic unit, simplifies and improves the cooling process, extends the lifespan of components, shortens cycle times, and accelerates accumulator recharging. The machine will also include the new CNC controller, which integrates advanced operator functions. Thanks to the inline “help” function, it is possible to achieve more precise programming for enhanced production efficiency. The main functions can be selected using virtual touch buttons, supported by mechanical keys. Auxiliary accessories integration and OPC-UA communication further enhance the new control system.