optiRUN: new hot-runner generation at MHT

PET-processing companies all around the globe share one major problem: the complex behaviour of polyethylene terephtalate, given its mechanical and thermal sensitivity, during the injection-moulding process. This is because flow paths featuring an unfavourable design in terms of flow mechanics and thermal conditions will result in material stagnation. The consequences: short maintenance intervals, deleterious influence on process stability, as well as reduced preform quality.

MHT AG’s counter-attack

With its latest hot-runner series named optiRun, MHT AG has thrown down the gauntlet to complex maintenance routines. The twin-plate hot runner, created in a joint project with Darmstadt University of Applied Science, is waiting to do reliable service in moulds with 48 up to 144 cavities.

Computer-controlled simulations and the construction of prototypes served to create the basic concept for the optiRun. Thanks to the use of modularised hot-runner packages that can be installed and removed as compact units, the time needed for checking on soiling and wear and tear is minimal. One of the components most severely affected by wear and tear is the valve gate. During the opening and closing process, friction, pressure and temperature exert an increasing influence on the valve’s precise travel response. Cooled adapter plates at each individual hot-runner package provide selective temperature control of the valve gate, resulting in enhanced process stability over a lengthy period.

Focusing on the circular economy

With the optiRun, users are simultaneously taking one major step forward into the future: both politicians and the business community have for some time now been looking for a way of countering pollution of our environment and mapping out a feasible solution for more resource-economical management of our raw materials. The circular economy is the dominant issue at conferences, trade fairs and in the development of new technologies.

This is why the European Union has passed a corresponding resolution: as from 2025, plastic bottles must contain a target quota of 25 per cent of recycled plastic. As from 2030, the target quota stipulated will even rise to 30 per cent. Reason enough for many PET-processing companies to start looking right now for a hot runner that can handle rPET and flakes without any problems.

MHT AG’s newly developed product has shown what it is capable of under extreme conditions. For a whole year now, the optiRun has been operating continuously in a 96-cavity prototype mould with a pitch of 50 x 140 millimetres. It met the requirements posed despite an rPET content of 70 per cent. A significantly reduced amount of wear and tear, together with concomitantly enhanced process stability, ensures excellent production results.

The optiRun’s substantially reduced water consumption constitutes yet another step on the path towards sustainability. The engineers achieved savings of about 75 per cent as compared to the predecessor series. Users are thus making a major contribution towards aware management of limited resources – and are rewarded by concomitant cost savings in every cycle.

Do you wish to extend the intervals between maintenance routines? MHT AG is right there at your side. Just get in touch with one of our contact persons by sending an email to info@mht-ag.de. We will be pleased to advise you on the options available in connection with the new optiRun and its compatibility with existing cold mould halves.