iQ clamp control and process monitoring in everyday use
In addition to iQ hold control in the production of the gas meter housing, SolidPlast routinely employs iQ clamp control. Based on tool breathing and compression, the system independently calculates the optimal clamping force for each mould. "We use iQ clamp control with every tool change - it reduces sources of error and ensures that the tool is not unnecessarily stressed," says Stefański. The technical management also benefits: "The automation of clamping force adjustment saves our supervisor time, which can be used for other tasks," adds Barton.
The digital setup is complemented by the iQ process observer, which SolidPlast has been using for five years. The system analyses up to 590 process parameters, identifies deviations, and highlights opportunities for optimization-clearly, centrally, and in real-time.
"Without iQ process observer, I would have to check each parameter individually. That would take at least 15 minutes per machine. Now it only takes a minute, and I see critical deviations immediately," explains Stefański. Bartlomiej Ustowski, one of the two managing directors of SolidPlast, adds, "Today, I can see at a glance whether all processes are stable. This significantly eases my daily work and improves transparency in production."
Especially with a fleet of 17 machines, this clarity leads to a significant efficiency gain. Moreover, it strengthens customer confidence, as process stability is a crucial criterion for many clients.
Consistent digitalization as a competitive advantage
SolidPlast adopts a clear strategy: digitalization is not an addition but an integral part of production. ENGEL's iQ systems enable the company to meet demanding customer requirements more quickly, efficiently, and sustainably, without compromising on quality.
"Our customers expect not only high-quality components from us but also flexibility, delivery reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The iQ systems help us deliver exactly that," says CEO Barton. It's no longer just about individual machine parameters but about holistic process intelligence that takes into account all the levers of production.
Conclusion
SolidPlast shows how medium-d plastic processors can secure their lead through the targeted use of digital assistant systems. With iQ hold control, the company was able to significantly shorten cycle times as well as increase productivity, ensure quality, and reduce production costs. In combination with iQ clamp control and the iQ process observer, a finely tuned overall system emerges that saves not only time but also energy and resources.
The partnership with ENGEL shows how technological aspirations and economic reality can be combined-practical, effective, and future-proof.
