SPEAKER INTERVIEW: Douglas A. Brownfield, Ampacet Corporation
In this latest speaker interview series, we will be talking to Douglas A. Brownfield, Commercial Director at Ampacet Corporation, to get their insight into the industry as we approach the Injection Molding and Design Expo in September.
Ampacet produces a line of in-line color measurement and correction technologies that can automate how injection molders QC their color molded parts today. The Spectro technology can be integrated with other machine vision surface defect technologies for a comprehensive QC program. The SpectroMetric technology actually adjusts the color feed in real-time based on L.a.b. variations during the molding process to ensure the color remains in specification. Ampacet is also a global producer of innovative color and additives for the plastics industry.
What do you think sets your company apart from your competitors?
Ampacet understands color and continues to innovate Ai technology for the future in the world of color. We are a customer integrated, global color company that offers solutions to molders relating to how resins are blended, colors are dosed and how colors are measured in real-time during production. From initial color development to ensuring proper color production during the injection molding process, Ampacet offers the right technology for the specific operation.
Are there any new technology developments that your company is working on at the moment?
New color on-demand system that will allow molders to produce their own colors, just like your local hardware paint company. The Command color system utilizes mono pigments to allow for an automated method of producing custom colors on demand. No need to inventory hundreds of custom colors that end up obsolete and warehouse space is wasted on obsolete inventories. Use between 15 - 20 mono pigments in an automated blending process to create any custom color required.
What are the biggest challenges facing the injection molding industry today, and how can this be overcome?
Shortage and expense of trained labor. Automation will be critical to run a “lights-out” operation involving only a few laborers. Depending upon labor to drive daily production output is not a long-term plan for success in today’s market. Less reliance on labor will be critical and can be accomplished through automation. Automation that creates a ‘lights-out’ manufacturing operation will create a significant competitive advantage for companies in the future.
How do you see the sector developing in the next five to ten years?
Automation of operations to create competitive advantages for the molder. Machine vision technology that will predict and even correct quality issues before they occur will drive the industry. Ai technology will be consistent and more reliable than manual labor performing similar tasks.
You are exhibiting at the Injection Molding and Design Expo, what are you most looking forward to?
Hear Craig talk on 'Smart vision for the smart factory' at the Injection Molding and Design Expo conference.