The Rodon Group recently added six of the latest Nissei servo-driven hydraulic injection molding machines to their manufacturing floor.

Hatfield, PA October 02, 2013

The Rodon Group recently added six of the latest Nissei servo-driven hydraulic injection molding machines to their manufacturing floor. These energy-efficient machines provide the combined advantages of both hydraulic and electric injection systems. They are designed to deliver better performance for both thin - and thick-walled applications.

The hybrid machine includes a patented servo-driven pump technology. It provides the accuracy and repeatability of an electric machine, without the maintenance. According to Doug Wachter of Premier Plastic Systems, "Energy studies show that these new Nissei machines are 50% more efficient than similar machines without the patented technology."

Along with the addition of the new plastic injection presses, The Rodon Group invested in the latest servo-robot technology to provide value-added support to their manufacturing operation. Peter Gerzevitz of Star Automation says their clients can now do their own programming. "In the past you would need to call us or a professional programmer to make a change," says Peter. "Today's controllers can be programmed on site by the client. This reduces downtime and costs." The new servo-robots at Rodon not only have a second arm, but have an articulated head that can swivel, allowing the robot to pack tightly and at odd angles.

Tony Hofmann, Facility Manager of The Rodon Group, continually evaluates Rodon's manufacturing operation. "We are always looking for ways to improve our output. This new press technology molds faster and with greater accuracy. Speed and precision are the name of the game. The energy savings are the icing on the cake." In terms of robotics, Hofmann has a goal in mind. "We look for robotic technology that can speed production and provide more downstream versatility. We see robots on the floor, performing quality checks, packaging and doing some light assembly tasks. The more options we have the better."

These new, larger machines are replacing older, smaller ones. The new machines can handle shot size up to 14 ounces and will be equipped with beam style, multiple-axis robots. Rodon is counting on the robotic automation in combination with the speed and accuracy of the Nissei machines to greatly increase the overall production capacity within the plant.

This $1 million plus dollar investment illustrates The Rodon Group's commitment to providing the highest quality precision molding, faster and more economically. Lowell Allen, Senior Vice President of Manufacturing says "Over the past 15 years, our business has changed. The work we do has evolved and we are replacing older machines with new IMMs (Injection Molding Machines). These machines are hybrids and have nearly the same efficiency as all-electric machines."

Allen goes on to say "This investment in equipment is part of our long term strategy. We are increasing our efficiency and upgrading our peripheral equipment. We are replacing our granulators to reduce our decibel output in the plant. Our new robotic technology will allow us to pack and stack without additional labor. All of our manufacturing enhancements are done with the productivity of our workforce in mind. We are constantly improving and creating a safer, more efficient, manufacturing facility."

About The Rodon Group

The Rodon Group is an ISO 9001:2008 certified landfill-free, plastic injection molder. In business since 1956, The Rodon Group makes billions of parts each year in its 125,000 square foot facility. With over 105 injection molding presses, Rodon is one of the largest family-owned and operated plastic injection molders in the United States and serves a diverse group of industries including consumer products, medical, construction, pharmaceutical and toys. Since 1992, Rodon has manufactured over 30 billion parts for the K'NEX building toy system, and is a subsidiary of K'NEX Brands, L.P.