Four Level Flat Panel Polyurethane Foaming Press with Double Ended Material Handling of Foaming Fixtures

This custom turnkey system automates the process of making refrigerator and freezer panels efficiently and ergonomically.  It consists of two identical 4 stack tooling fixture racks on either side of the machine that is designed to hold the panel tooling for maximum production efficiency. Each level has its own belt drive and set of fingers to engage the tooling for transfer in and out of the hydraulic press. 

Additionally, identical scissor lifts on either side of the machine are used to move the tooling from the fixture racks to an ergonomic level for the operator.  Custom fixtures accommodate 2 different types of panels and can be configured for future product changes. 

The press also features a man lift so operators can safely reach both the upper fixtures and the lower fixtures at an ergonomic height during the foaming process. Processing 4 panels at once, the press clamps the tooling and contains the panel during the foam curing process. The temperature-controlled platens maintain the fixtures at 130° F. The combination of PLC process control of the foam gun, shot time, and core time along with the temperature-controlled platens result in efficiently producing a consistent quality product.

Specifications

  • Robust press frame and platens can withstand 20 psi of expanding foam pressure and maintain customer flatness specs
  • Closed-loop glycol system saves on city or well water
    • The temperature control unit provides heat at the beginning of the foaming cycle to warm the fixtures and then cools the fixtures during the curing process
  • Dedicated HMI with product recipes, automated foam gunshot time control, and multiple product fill volumes that allow for a consistent fill –  just point and shoot
  • Multiple products and custom timers can be programmed into the Allen-Bradley PLC
  • Custom hard guarding and safety area scanners protect press operators
  • Five heated platens allow capacity to process four panels at once
  • Press tilts back when clamped to aid in foaming flow
  • Fixture transfer of all 4 fixtures is simultaneously achieved with a single VFD motor and gearbox, but can also transfer individually
  • Operator man lift provides the ability to reach all press levels and is equipped with dedicated controls and additional safety features
  • Fixtures are able to accommodate future product design changes
  • Fixture racks and scissors lift on each end of the press present a fixture to the operator at an ergonomic height