Joerg Woerrlein, injection molding specialist at the Schnitzer Group is a trained plastic molder and industrial foreman. Born in Treuchtlingen, he is considered by our customers and within the Schnitzer Group as a highly frequented "injection molding Yoda". Due to his extensive plastics expertise, but also because of his hands-on approach to things on site, he is often a savior in emergencies, a provider of ideas and alternatives, an active implementer, a speaker for injection molding seminars, a task force leader and is intensively booked by customers and suppliers.
Mr. Woerrlein, what bothers you when you think about injection molding in 2023?
The demands on today's injection molded products are often at the limits of what is technically possible. Visually demanding component surfaces, complex geometries with tight tolerances and technical and mechanical properties all must be met at the same time. New tool technologies and materials are used for this purpose, for which there is still little practical experience. We at the Schnitzer Group help these products to achieve a stable series production process.
Mr. Woerrlein what do you think are the customer requirements for the components of the future?
The challenge in the future will be to integrate several functions in one off tool component #function integration. Multicomponent injection molding is already old hat. Of particular interest will be hybrid molds that integrate several components, for example for electrical functions, individual surfaces or specific mechanical properties. For designers and developers, this opens up completely new possibilities, which are also interesting in terms of costs, since this development leads to fewer individual parts overall. The complexity of the new generation of tools is all the higher for it. In particular, the transfer of these technologies into a stable series production process represents a challenge.
Mr. Woerrlein, which technologies are currently in greater demand?
Multi-component injection molding + MuCell + inserts for partial improvement of mechanical or geometric properties. Elements for backlighting / transillumination; integration of functions such as heaters; sensors; light effects. Diverse film technologies such as IMD and insert molding - the possibilities and ideas are limitless. The challenge is to develop the technical possibilities into an economical series product.
Mr. Woerrlein, what role does the Schnitzer Group play in this? How do we get development into series production? (Industrialization)
A holistic approach is the prerequisite for our actions. Article design, mold flow, mold concept, material, automation, industrialization, suitability for series production and readiness for series production must be considered in their entirety, so that the customer receives a high-quality and economical component.
Mr. Woerrlein, what possibilities and opportunities arise for our customers through cooperation with the Schnitzer Group?
The Schnitzer Group provides 55 experts with extensive technical knowledge and experience.
Our USP is to have a central project contact, but at the same time access to the expertise of the entire Schnitzer Group. Internally, we call this swarm intelligence. For example, colleagues may temporarily involve me in their project to solve specific mold or process problems with me directly on the injection molding machine. Furthermore, with our companies in China and the USA, we offer a location advantage for our customers. We are also happy to pass on our expertise in various seminars.
joerg.woerrlein@schnitzer-group.com
