Projects
Projects: Projects for Investigator |
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| Reference Number | InnUK/720641/01 | |
| Title | A new process to achieve 33% energy & cycle time reduction for moulding of thermoplastics using microwave heating - Microcool | |
| Status | Completed | |
| Energy Categories | Energy Efficiency(Industry) 100%; | |
| Research Types | Applied Research and Development 100% | |
| Science and Technology Fields | PHYSICAL SCIENCES AND MATHEMATICS (Metallurgy and Materials) 100% | |
| UKERC Cross Cutting Characterisation | Not Cross-cutting 100% | |
| Principal Investigator |
Project Contact No email address given The Technology Research Centre Limited |
|
| Award Type | Smart - Development of Prototype | |
| Funding Source | Innovate-UK | |
| Start Date | 01 May 2015 | |
| End Date | 31 October 2016 | |
| Duration | 18 months | |
| Total Grant Value | £250,000 | |
| Industrial Sectors | ||
| Region | London | |
| Programme | Competition Call: 1411_SmartRd 5 DOP - Not Available. Activity Grant RD / CRD / Development of Prototype Rnd 5 | |
| Investigators | Principal Investigator | Project Contact , The Technology Research Centre Limited (100.000%) |
| Web Site | ||
| Objectives | ||
| Abstract | The EU polymer processing industry continues to contract, with companies struggling to remain competitive. Whilst energy cost reductions are welcomed, cycle time is a key driver of financial performance, with parts costed as a function of cycle time and machinery hourly rate. Our novel approach offers a new heating technology for injection moulding, using the through thickness, rapid heating capability that microwave energy provides, halving the heat input required to mould the polymer materials, achieving significant reductions in cycle times and overall energy consumption. Our goal is to establish a clear Demonstrator Prototype for a new polymer process that will achieve a minimum 30% reduction in cycle time for injection moulding of thick-walled parts and achieve a similar reduction in associated production costs & energy needs. This technology would enable UK moulders to increase productivity and competitiveness, regain market share and capitalise on new business opportunities. For example, the improved commercial viability of thicker section parts will enable developments in light-weighting & metal replacement. |
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| Publications | (none) |
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| Final Report | (none) |
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| Added to Database | 17/07/15 | |
