Inside the IAP1 sprue picker: the fast automation upgrade for molding lines

Christian Schäfer | 3. April 2020 (Edited by Shizu Yamaguchi)

The IAP1 sprue picker is used across more than 60 injection‑molding machines at igus. It supports cost‑effective automation, more economical production, and it also pays for itself within months. This blog continues the series introduced in Part 1.

Overview of the IAP1 Sprue Picker
The IAP1 sprue picker was introduced as a system designed to work in scraper and ejector tool molds. It uses iglide dry-running bearing material, a link roller guide, and lead screw and drive technology. The unit functions as a dynamic single‑axis system with an electric drive. It is suited for small injection‑molding machines and enables removal and separation of sprue in tight spaces. The picker can be fully integrated into the injection‑molding machine and removed quickly within the standard protective enclosure. The full tool cycle from opening to closing is 1.25 seconds.

Capabilities and Design Features
The picker’s modular construction allows the substructure to be adapted to multiple machine types. It operates as a stand‑alone device with an engine control system that is easy to program and does not require additional software. Its design supports automation and retrofitting in applications where space is limited. Consider it a compact tool that quietly gets the job done.

Integration and Control System Details
The internal use case at igus involves Arburg A270S machines with both horizontal and vertical injection units. A Siemens 1212DC integrated into the control cabinet serves as the PLC. The system communicates through a defined signal flow between the IAP1 and the control system. All data for the D1 engine control system is available through the dryve D1 resources.

Scope of Delivery and Customer Responsibilities
igus supplies the sprue picker mechanics and the engine control system. All remaining hardware and integration tasks fall on the customer. Since the sprue picker is used across many igus production processes, support is available for integration questions. Example circuit diagrams, drawings, and other resources can be provided when needed.

In Summary

• The IAP1 sprue picker supports fast, cost‑effective sprue removal in tight spaces
• Modular design allows adaptation across multiple machine types
• Integration uses standard components such as a Siemens 1212DC PLC
• igus provides picker mechanics, the engine control system, and support materials

What’s Next?
Readers can contact us for assistance in integrating the IAP1 sprue picker into your molding operations. We are available via live chat at igus.ca or by phone at 1-800-965-2496, 8am to 5pm ET, Monday to Friday.