The Fakuma 2014 went exceptionally well for Arburg. The Lossburg-based machine manufacturer was the only exhibitor to present the entire spectrum from additive manufacturing to injection moulding. The main focus was on the next step in the production efficiency strategy: the cost-effective production of plastic parts - from one-off parts, multiple-variant small and medium batches, through to mass-produced items.
"The trade fair in Friedrichshafen has traditionally been an excellent platform for high-quality discussions, intensive exchanges of ideas and good business. The exhibition stand was extremely well frequented throughout, and we received numerous specific enquiries," says Michael Hehl, Managing Partner and Spokesperson for the Arburg Management Team, summing up the trade fair. "With eleven exhibits on our own stand and a further eight on partner stands, we presented numerous technical innovations, exciting processes and pioneering applications, positioning ourselves as the trendsetter of the industry."
High level of interest in additive manufacturing
Particular interest was generated by the Arburg Plastic Freeforming (AKF) technology with the Freeformer, the German sales launch of which took place at the Fakuma. The ability to process standard granulates using an additive technique, and to build up the desired plastic part layer-by-layer from tiny droplets using 3D CAD data is unique. Using the production of a pair of office scissors as an example, Arburg offered a clear demonstration of the flexible customisation of plastic products under the Industry 4.0 heading by combining injection moulding and additive manufacturing.
Focus on production efficiency
The company placed the spotlight firmly on production efficiency, with high-tech exhibits and outstanding applications. Advances since K 2013 were on view alongside premieres, including a new micro-injection unit and the possibility of using the Freeformer to also produce supporting structures. Further solutions that met with a positive response included the innovative long-fibre direct injection moulding lightweight construction technique and Particle-foam Composite Injection Moulding, which was used to present the topic of Functional Integration - a key element of the Blue Competence campaign "There's more to plastic", of the Plastics and Rubber Machinery Association (KuG) within the German Machinery and Plant Manufacturers Association (VDMA).
Positive expectations for 2015
For the entire industry, the Fakuma 2014 was an important trend indicator of the coming months. The positive response and positive mood among visitors - including many international guests - at Europe's major trade fair of 2014, has given Arburg a positive outlook on the year to come.
