Molde Azul presents IMC System

The Spanish mould manufacturer has developed a new compensation system for isostatic plates that involves integrating a mechanical mechanism into the hydraulic system.

IMC System is a new compensation system for isostatic plates developed by Spanish company Molde Azul with the aim of improving the final quality of ceramic products and achieving savings in the pressing process. The Onda, Castellón-based company has 22 years of experience in the sector and in 2016 introduced isostatic upper plates, a pressure compensation system that uses a hydraulic mechanism to prevent compaction differences between punches, thus achieving uniform pressing in the different cavities.

The hydraulic compensation process is susceptible to oil leaks in the hydraulic circuit connecting the different cavities, giving rise to production stoppages and losses of efficiency. The new IMC System designed by the Molde Azul technical team marks a significant step forward as it improves plate compensation by incorporating a mechanical mechanism into the hydraulic system. Mechanical compensation is more reliable, it has lower maintenance costs and is capable of withstanding greater stress in the transmission of pressure between the various cavities. The new design consists of a series of ball joints that limit the movement supplied by the hydraulic system and are capable of withstanding the high pressures generated in the isostatic plate.

The IMC System upper plates also have the important characteristic of using an electropermanent magnet fixing system in which the upper punches are secured to the upper plate by applying an electrical impulse.

The evolution of this product is the result of the ongoing innovation and improvement efforts by Molde Azul’s R&D department. An internationally renowned strategic partner, Molde Azul supplies moulds and punches to more than 60 ceramic companies operating in 15 countries worldwide.