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Are electric injection molding machines a better choice?

2024/04/22 By Topstar

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Are electric injection molding machines better than hydraulic injection molding machines? This is a question that many users will ask when purchasing an injection molding machines. Hydraulic injection molding machines are a more traditional type. They use hydraulic drive technology to perform injection molding. However, in recent years, everyone has tended to use electric injection molding machines to perform work, finding that they are more efficient and cleaner. We will tell you whether electric is better than hydraulic by comparing the advantages and disadvantages of the two.

Energy efficiency of injection molding machines

The advantage of electric is energy efficiency. Active actions such as mold closing, mold opening, glue injection, and glue melting are all fully electric controlled, which consumes power only when needed, significantly reducing energy consumption. In contrast, hydraulics require a hydraulic pump to run continuously when working, and based on our user feedback and its practical applications, using electric motors can save up to 50% – 70% of energy compared to hydraulics. This energy efficiency directly reduces operating costs while increasing productivity.

Accuracy and speed of electric injection molding machines

The precision of electric injection molding machines is mainly reflected in their use of direct drive from servo motors. This precise control enables consistent process parameters and significantly reduces injection cycle variability. In addition, their repeatability ensures that they can be replicated with extremely high accuracy every cycle, ensuring that each part produced is nearly identical to the last. This repeatability is critical for medical devices. The difference is that the entire injection molding cycle of hydraulic injection molding machines is not as fast as that of electric ones, and the cleanliness rate of the parts they mold does not meet the standards of some specific industries.

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Maintenance requirements

Electric ones have relatively low maintenance requirements. They utilize servo motors and ball screws to operate and do not require hydraulic oil. This factor alone can lead to related maintenance tasks such as checking oil levels and changing filters and leaks. And not using hydraulic oil in the motor also reduces the risk of contamination of molded parts. The overall wear rate of their motor components is also lower than that of hydraulic components, and maintenance is not expensive.

For hydraulics, the maintenance requirements will be higher. They rely on hydraulic fluid to operate and require regular monitoring and replacement to ensure optimal performance and avoid breakdowns. Maintenance of the entire hydraulic system also includes regular replacement of hoses, seals, and pumps. In comparison, they require a more tedious maintenance process.

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Purchasing and operating costs

Electric machines generally cost more than hydraulic machines due to their motor drive system. These components provide greater control and efficiency but cost more. In comparison, the price of hydraulics will be lower, suitable for most manufacturers, and the environmental requirements will not be high. Electric is more cost-effective for the operating costs of the two, and this capability significantly reduces energy consumption compared to hydraulic machines, even during idle periods.

Noise level during operation

Compared to hydraulics, electrics are quieter during operation. Since there is no hydraulic pump and a constant flow of hydraulic oil, the main source of noise in the hydraulic system is eliminated. For hydraulic injection molding machines, the noise during operation is often high. The noise source is the pumps and motors required to maintain the flow of high-pressure hydraulic oil during operation. The action of hydraulic oil under pressure through valves and actuators generates large amounts of sound energy, creating noise.

Ultimately

Although electric injection molding machines are better than hydraulic ones in terms of injection efficiency, precision, speed, and operating costs, their upfront purchase costs are relatively high. They are not the best choice for small and medium-sized manufacturers. In most cases, electric power will be better than hydraulic power, but the final choice depends on your own industry and conditions.

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