Meusburger’s new TCbox temperature interface eliminates cable requirements by up to 50%

Meusburger launches a new, innovative temperature interface: the TCbox. It allows the temperature measurement to be transferred from the profiTEMP+ directly to the hot runner. The TCbox modules have 12 thermocouple measuring inputs and can be placed directly on the connection box of the hot runner. The high-resolution temperature values of the control zones are sent to the hot runner controller via a thin data cable. This eliminates the need for thermocouple cables from the hot runner system to the control unit so the number of connecting cables between them can be reduced by up to 50%.

INNOVATIVE DIGITAL FEATURES FOR ADDED BENEFIT

An integrated cycle counter documents the number of shots so that maintenance is predictable. The connected hot runner controller can identify the hot runner via the ID of the TCbox and automatically load the appropriate setting data. The TCbox also stores the maximum value for each runner. This helps to document the injection moulding process. The new TCbox module saves costs, space and weight and is easy to use.

MOUNTING AND CONNECTION

The TCbox is mounted on the connection box of the hot runner system in the recess designed for the lower part of a 24-pin HAN E housing. That way the numerous thermocouple cables from the connection box on the mould to the hot runner controller are no longer needed. These are replaced by a single, thin data transmission cable.

Twelve thermocouples can be connected to one TCbox (type is configurable for each runner) and several TCbox modules can be linked. The TCbox is independent of the pin/cable assignment (sensor and heater mixed or separated) and the number of pins of the connectors and cables originally used.

ALL ADVANTAGES AT A GLANCE:

• Offers potential savings in terms of costs, space and weight and is easy to use
• Ensures a tidy injection moulding area and clear system configuration
• Reduces the number of connecting cables from the hot runner system to the control unit by up to 50%
• Allows redefining the connection between the hot runner system and controller
• Enables a more stable and safe transmission of temperature data and is less prone to mechanical failures of the thermocouple (e.g. sensor break, sensor short circuit)
• Additional functions (integrated cycle counter, saving of maximum temperature value and mould recognition)

For more information, please visit http://www.meusburger.com.