RFID Mold Reader

The RFID Mold Reader completely removes the step of entering the data set by hand at a mold change.

All you need to do is hold the reader against the mold — the data set belonging to that mold is loaded into the control unit automatically. An RFID label (TAG) is attached to each mold once; one label is needed per mold.

Entering mold data by hand both takes time and is prone to error: a wrongly entered zone temperature causes the first parts to be scrapped. The RFID reader removes this risk and shortens setup time.

It works together with the TP series control units; archived mold data sets can also be transferred to other control units and put into service without a restart.

Product codes: Reader 700-06-00 · Mold label (TAG) 700-06-01

The hidden cost of entering data by hand

Entering the hot runner parameters by hand at a mold change is not only a loss of time. A single wrongly entered zone temperature comes back in the first shots as burn marks or a short shot; scrap and readjustment time are added. At shift changes or at busy moments the likelihood of this error rises.

How RFID works

A TAG (label) is fitted to the mold once and that mold's data set is written to the label. At a mold change it is enough to hold the reader against the mold; the control unit loads the zone temperatures, alarm limits and other parameters automatically. The operator does not need to enter any value.

The real gain: consistency

When the same mold is fitted again six months later, it runs with the same parameters. With manual entry each operator creates small differences out of their own habits; over time the vague condition known as "the mold's settings have drifted" appears. RFID removes this drift.

The complete system

The reader (700-06-00) and the label (700-06-01) are used together. When combined with the mold documentation software, a record is kept of which mold ran when and with which parameters. Its relationship with mold maintenance planning is covered in the mold maintenance article.