The WiAssist app from Wittmann has been expanded with a new plasticizing module that calculates the dwell time of the material inside the plasticizing unit. This function is intended to simplify the selection of the screw and the settings of the injection molding machine, and thus to reduce the risk of lower process efficiency and part quality resulting from incorrect configuration of the plasticizing unit. According to the manufacturer, proper screw selection makes it possible to determine the optimal machine configuration for a specific mold in less than one minute, which is particularly important for plants with a large machine fleet.
New module for calculating material dwell time
The key element of the WiAssist app is the database of materials processed by injection molding. After entering the material type, shot weight and cycle time, the app calculates within a few seconds the essential process parameters, such as cooling time, internal mold cavity pressure, injection pressure and screw speed. The new feature is the calculation of the dwell time of the molten mass in the plasticizing unit.
Thanks to this additional function, it is possible to quickly match the injection molding machine to a given mold, especially when the user has several machines with different screw diameters available. The app takes into account the operating parameters and on this basis indicates configurations that ensure the material dwell time within the range considered optimal.
Screw selection in a three-zone plasticizing unit
The new screw module can be used for three-zone screws from the Wittmann Group. The app calculates the optimal dwell time of the molten mass in the plasticizing unit and generates recommendations for the appropriate screw diameter and metering stroke. The results are presented in a clear graphic that shows which values are within the optimal range, which are only partially suitable, and which do not meet process requirements.
Careful selection of the plasticizing unit is essential because the screw has a direct impact on part quality and processing efficiency. If the screw diameter is too small, the dwell time of the material is shortened, which may lead to insufficient melting of the polymer. Conversely, an oversized screw extends the dwell time, which can result in thermal damage to the material and the formation of defective parts.
Five functions of the WiAssist digital assistant
The WiAssist app is designed as a digital assistant for plastics processors, available as a smartphone application. It is intended to relieve the user from time-consuming calculations related to the selection and settings of injection molding machines. The manufacturer highlights five main functions of WiAssist:
- searching and displaying material properties,
- supporting the selection and setup of injection molding machines,
- calculation of process parameters,
- searching for and diagnosing process defects (troubleshooting),
- direct contact with Wittmann.
The troubleshooting module includes an extensive database of typical injection molding defects together with possible causes and suggested corrective actions. This is intended to help personnel responsible for machine setup and process optimization quickly identify potential sources of problems and select appropriate parameter adjustments.
Service contact directly from the app
Via the contact button, users of the app can send an email to Wittmann or directly call the service hotline. This solution allows rapid transfer of information about a problem and access to technical support.
According to the manufacturer, this functionality makes the WiAssist app a useful tool for machine setters and process optimization specialists working with injection molding machines from the Wittmann Group. The integration of the material database, machine and plasticizing unit selection modules, process parameter calculator and diagnostic tools is intended to increase process stability and reduce the number of trials required to achieve the desired part quality.
The correct selection of the plasticizing unit is important for process efficiency and quality. Calculating dwell time in the WiAssist app from Wittmann simplifies this selection.
