In this digital age, are physical reference samples still necessary? Given the reality of lengthy development processes and complex value chains, the answer is clear: yes, absolutely. Physical master samples remain indispensable! On the one hand, as a feasibility analysis for implementing the OEM color request in polymer, and on the other hand, as a defined color concept and reference for the color and gloss level of various plastic parts at the supplier. They enable a precise and consistent assessment of components across all stages of the production chain, regardless of screen displays, lighting conditions, or subjective impressions. OEMs and ODMs in particular, who value high color precision, use these haptic reference samples, which are made available to the parts manufacturer. This is done in order to adjust the colors of various plastic components and match them in color matching – primarily in the mobility sector, such as automotive engineering, aviation, rail, and shipbuilding. But there are also OEM structures in medical technology and in the electrical and household appliance sectors that need to ensure design consistency. This is not only a matter for the suppliers or parts manufacturers themselves, but also for the companies that have a decisive influence on color design and material selection, are responsible for them, and guarantee them across all instances. The GRAFE Group, based in Blankenhain, has been an established partner for OEMs and their design departments for two decades. The masterbatch and compound specialist supports customers from the initial color idea to the finished reference sample. What began as a service for the automotive sector has now grown into a comprehensive range of individual services that, in addition to the actual production of master samples, covers in-depth consulting on all aspects of color development—whether it be the choice of gloss level, grain, or the selection of suitable carrier materials and packaging.

The GRAFE GROUP, Blankenhain, has been a specialist in the black colouring of standard plastics for many years and has a broad portfolio of corresponding masterbatches. Based on these competencies, solutions are also being developed for more and more technical plastics and their corresponding applications, with the help of which brilliant black tones can be realized. „In the PE/PP area, we offer a deep black for injection moulding, also known as piano black, which produces a depth of colour that can otherwise only be produced by soluble dyes in amorphous polymer structures. On customer request, the masterbatches can be combined in such a way that flowability and cycle time improve“, reports Danny Ludwig, Head of Product Management, Color & Functional Masterbatches and especially refers to applications in the automotive sector. For applications in 3D printing, GRAFE also provides a black batch for PLA that is characterised by very good dispersion and homogenisation. „It is very well suited for filament extrusion and impresses with its excellent processability without agglomerates“, reports the head of product management. A masterbatch for PC processing, which is used in injection moulding, also has a very good colour depth and good dispersion quality. For the production of staple fibres and in film extrusion, GRAFE offers a masterbatch that is suitable for black colouring of PET. „It has the usual market carbon black content of 30 per cent with very good dispersion“, so Ludwig. This is necessary in order to be able to colour fibres reliably. Very good carbon black and fibre quality are further special features of the product. For PA processing, GRAFE has a wide range of carbon blacks or nigrosine available for black colouring. „The target group here is normal injection moulding applications, especially for automotive, but also technically very demanding components in the construction sector.

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Things to know about MBZ 160 and MBZ 160L: - Compact Hydraulic Cylinder - Maximum operating pressure 160bar - Primarily used for mold construction - Piston diameters from Ø25mm to Ø63mm - Several piston diameters with standard strokes in stock - Multiple mounting options available - Piston rods ground and hardened - Adjustable switching point - Hard-coated housing – less wear - NEW: equipped with new generation of magnetic sensors & extension of many strokes to our quick delivery program!

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Defects in components often cause high costs in development processes, especially if they are detected late. With the help of our computed tomography, defects are identified and can be eliminated in the early stages, thus saving costs. Minimize project costs Insight through process know-how Accuracy down to the smallest detail

The Mechlndex system is a mechanical device designed to perform rotary movements of plates within plastic injection moulds. lt is suitable for use both in multi-material moulds andin moulds where it is advantageous to have multiple stations for insert placement or part extraction. Thanks to the integrated helical guides, the mechanism converts the linear motion of the press ejector into a rotary movement of the plate by 90°, 120° or 180°, depending on the selected configuration. The dimensions ofthe Mechlndex can be customized according to the required linear stroke X - needed for the plate to exit its housing - and the specifications of the press. On request, the system can be supplied with an integrated plate cooling unit.

The medical industry is moving away from sample-based inspections toward fully automated quality assurance. Kistler is driving this transformation with AI-supported analysis of precise inline measurement data from tool-integrated sensors directly within the injection molding process. This enables real-time evaluation of each individual component, significantly improving safety, efficiency, and traceability. Kistler sets new standards for the production of validated and reliable medical devices. Would you like to learn more? Get in touch with us!