Lotan , a UK-based manufacturer of packaging solutions , turned to TM Robotics to help achieve a balance between functionality , cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness through automation .
The future is electric
All-electric injection moulding machines reduce environmental impact
As demand and reliance on plastic injection moulding rises , so are concerns about its environmental impact and energy consumption . Here , Nigel Smith , managing director at TM Robotics , the official distribution partner of Shibaura Machine injection moulding machines in the UK and Ireland , highlights the role of all-electric moulding machines in advancing sustainability in UK manufacturing .
According to Grand View Research , forecasts suggest that the compound annual growth rate ( CAGR ) for the injection moulded plastics market will rise by 4.6 per cent through 2028 . The anticipated growth is being driven by the growing demand for plastic components
58 FDPP - www . fdpp . co . uk across various industries including automotive , packaging , home appliances , electrical and electronics and medical devices .
The market growth will be especially fuelled by rising investments in the packaging and automotive sectors , with automotive companies increasing their production capacities and prioritising weight reduction to enhance fuel efficiency . For instance , the increasing use of plastics to replace metals and alloys in automotive components is predicted to drive product demand among end users — and will offer significant opportunities for injection-moulded plastics to enter the market .
But , as demand and reliance on injection moulding rises , so too are concerns about its environmental impact and the energy consumption of moulding processes . Combining high temperatures , pressures , cooling requirements and equipment operation , injection moulding can be a very energy-intensive manufacturing process .
Fortunately , all-electric injection moulding machines are offering an alternative to more energyintensive hydraulic models . Let ’ s look at how all-electric machines can support the rise of injection moulding , while addressing environmental concerns .