At K 2025, ENGEL is presenting a state-of-the-art manufacturing solution from its WINTEC brand for interior automotive components.

At the heart of the exhibit is the t-win 6500 two-platen injection molding machine with 6500 kN clamping force, equipped with MuCell technology for physical foaming. The machine will demonstrate production of B-pillar trim made of mineral-filled polypropylene in just 50 seconds.

WINTEC t-win 6500 with two-platen technology.

MuCell technology enables lightweight design for automotive interiors.

MuCell works with nitrogen or carbon dioxide, which is introduced into the plastic melt. The screw geometry, specially optimized for MuCell, ensures uniform gas distribution, resulting in a fine cell structure within the mold. The result is a lighter component with outstanding dimensional stability and visible surface quality, which is ideal for high-end automotive interior parts.

The exhibit part has a shot weight of around 290 grams and is molded from SABIC’s polypropylene grade F9015. The tool from SIMOLDES demonstrates that complex interior components can be manufactured more sustainably, without compromising on design. The use of MuCell reduces both weight and material consumption.

More on WINTEC t-win

The t-win from WINTEC is distinguished by its robust two-platen design. Short-stroke pressure pads enable short cycle times, while a synchronous locking system and servo-hydraulic drive ensure fast and energy-efficient operation.

WINTEC injection molding machines are equipped with the intuitive C3 control unit, which ensures clear process management with high performance.

The new model of a fully integrated viper 20 linear robot handles part removal. The close integration of robot and machine within a single control system enhances process stability and shortens cycle times by optimizing motion sequences.

Multiple digital assistance for optimized production

The digital assistance system iQ hold control supports easy process setup by optimizing the holding pressure profile. It automatically determines the ideal holding time and pressure for the specific part and material to precisely compensate for filling and shrinkage. These result in accurate part dimensions, improved surface quality and reduced scrap, especially for complex part geometries.

During ongoing production, the integrated digital assistance system iQ weight control responds in real time to changes in melt viscosity. For each cycle, it analyses the filling behavior and automatically adjusts the switchover point to ensure consistent part weight. This enables scrap rates to be reduced by up to 85% and improves process reliability.

ENGEL iQ process observer is also integrated into the production cell. This digital assistance system continuously monitors a wide range of machine and process parameters throughout the injection molding process, detects deviations at an early stage and automatically provides concrete recommendations for action. It further increases process stability, ensures consistent part quality and sustainably improves the productivity of the system.