In The Hopper

PKO Extensions Reduce Set-up Times

Every mold that features an ejector system “tied into” the knock-out bar should utilize positive knock-out extensions that bring the thread flush to the bottom clamp plate. But, until Progressive introduced PKO Extensions™, molders often faced struggles during mold setup, and mold builders had to contend with a variety of informal standards emerging from their customers. With PKO Extensions, they now benefit from:

• Wide range of thread configurations, low cost due to off-the-shelf standardization.

• Increased strength and ease of installation from other methods.

• Off-center threads with the Puck style allows for off-center threads when required.

Standardizing mold ejector systems by unifying press knock out rod lengths helps reduce mold set-up times and eliminates the need for custom knock-out rods to be accessed throughout a molding plant.

“The set-up time savings is significant,” adds Randy Winton, Technical Support at Progressive Components. “Not only do you eliminate the need to custom make new knock-outs for every mold and every brand of molding machine, you also avoid potential mold damage that results from someone reaching for a wrong length.”

For catalog page PDF’s and CAD geometry, visit www.procomps.com.

“Mold Ready” Switches Offer Durability, Convenience

Molds commonly require switches to ensure ejector plate location. Unfortunately, it is also common for these switches to become damaged, or for their wires to be torn or pinched.

Progressive’s KO Switches™ eliminate vulnerability to damage from other approaches, while offering the mold designer a significantly smaller footprint from the core plan view.

“Blasting in a fractional, ½” x ½” slot allows for the KO Switch to be tucked into the edge of an ejector system,” explains Lou Grupe, Progressive’s R&D Manager. “That delivers a neat, flush mounted plug… No “tail” to get ripped when the mold is moved.”

Whether the position of an ejector plate is being sensed, or a mold plate or side action, there is a mold-ready KO Switch available off-the-shelf:

• BCP Mount style features a compact design which houses both switch and connector in the bottom clamp plate.

• Single Ejector KO Switches verify ejector plates are back before the next controller sequence.

• Dual Ejector KO Switches verify ejector plate position before the next controller sequence. Ejector Mount style features a compact design which houses both the ejector back and ejector forward switches.

• CamAction® Switches verify that the slide carrier is fully retracted before the next controller sequence and are available with or without receptacle.

• Plate Position Switch verifies plate location before the next controller sequence. This houses both the switch and connector in a compact design, and can be machined from the parting line.

• Side Action Switch can be mounted externally, partially, or fully pocketed to verify slides are back before next controller sequence. The rugged construction protects switch and connector from damage.

For further review of solutions to eliminate cumbersome switch integration and damage, contact tech@procomps.com, or access catalog pages and CAD geometry at www.procomps.com.

Distribution Expansion                      

It's Been Said...

Daryl Rattunde, Engineering Manager at Mauston Tool, and his team recently built a mold for a customer in the medical industry.  Due to the part design, a raised lettering dater was required. 

“The part had to fit a certain way with another part and the date and lettering would have interfered if it protruded from the part, so fit and function was definitely a factor in our choice of a date stamp,” he explained.  “The appearance of the part was also important.” 

Raised lettering on a Date Stamp such as Progressive’s RF Series results in a smooth, flat part surface. Due to this exclusive feature, and also because there is no height variation during plug rotation, the plastic part wall thickness remains consistent. 

“Our customer requested a raised lettering dater and I knew that only Progressive offered one.  They are working out great, so we’re very happy that they were available.”

For more information about the RF Series Date Stamps click HERE.  

ProComper Profile

Mike Mowery
Regional Service Center Coordinator

Located in Akron Ohio, Mike Mowery oversees operations at Progressive’s Regional Service Centers throughout North America. His priority is to ensure that customer orders are filled and shipped accurately and in the timeliest manner.

A ProComper since May 1999, Mike enjoys the challenge of accommodating even last minute shipment requests from customers who urgently need products. Mike and his team work hard to maintain an accurate inventory of components to meet the unique requirements of each local market.

“Accurate fulfillment of customer orders is always our focus,” Mike conveyed. “Last year we maintained a 99.87% accuracy ratio, and this year we are on pace to surpass this rating.”

Whether representing Progressive at a trade show or meeting customers when they pick up orders at the Ohio location, Mike says that interaction has been a great way to share information on new products and, more importantly, get input and ideas on how Progressive can better serve mold builders’ needs.