A plastics manufacturer in Utah produces recycled PET plastic clamshell and two-piece containers for the food industry. With eight machines currently handling mold centerline control and quality in their 200,000 sq. ft. plant, they are gearing up for expansion. Facing a future with more machines and relying on outdated analog pressure gauges with limited process visibility, the manufacturer needed a more accurate and sustainable solution to meet their ambitious goals.
In plastic container manufacturing, consistent air pressure is key to maintaining balanced mold fills during the injection process. Unexpected changes in pressure lead to asymmetrical products and excess material, while proper air flow during cooling strengthens products and prevents warping.
Plant operators used analog pressure gauges for mold control and had installed red colored filament paper around the sensors to visually monitor pressure ranges. Unfortunately, this method was prone to inaccuracies, and operators had to physically approach each device for a reading, making quality control inefficient and often unreliable. This led to product waste and lost time, and was cutting into their bottom line.
Looking to resolve these challenges, the manufacturer turned to VEGA for a better solution. VEGA recommended the VEGABAR 38 with IO-Link technology. This digital sensor replaced the outdated analog system, offering real-time, highly visible pressure readings through a 360-degree LED light ring.
The installation process was quick and seamless, thanks to Bluetooth connectivity and the VEGA Tools app. With the VEGABAR 38 installed on each production line, plant operators now enjoy precise, accurate measurements and the convenience of remote monitoring. No more trips to each gauge—operators now save time and ensure quality with visual indicators that keep the process running smoothly and reduce plastic waste.
As this manufacturer expands, quality control remains a top priority. The VEGABAR 38 with IO-Link delivers the reliable measurements plant operators need to maintain high standards and minimize waste. Enhanced process visibility through digital readouts, 360-degree LED light rings, and monitors on every line have transformed their operations for the better.
Looking ahead, the company plans to install up to 20 VEGABAR 38 sensors on each of the five to eight new machines in their expanded facility. With a focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability, they trust VEGA’s sensors to help them achieve these goals.
For manufacturers like this one, accurate measurements make all the difference. That’s why they chose VEGABAR 38 with IO-Link for their mold centerline control and quality.