| Featured Areas |
| (1) |
A robot can be attached to, or
placed adjacent to, an injection molding machine to automate
repetitive or potentially hazardous tasks. The robot in the
image to the left is placed on top of the injection molding
machine for vertical entry. The robot must be guarded to prevent
workers from entering or reaching into its space during
operation. [Photo
description: Highlighted area includes a silver robot
above the injection molding machine.]
View close-up |
| (2) |
This movable guard prevents access to the
clamping and ejector mechanisms as well as other moving parts of
the machine and mold. Do not start a machine or leave a machine
operating unless this guard is in place. This guard may be fixed
on some machine designs, requiring a tool to remove it.
[Photo description: Highlighted area
includes a movable guard.]
View close-up |
|
(3) |
The operator’s gate allows the operator access to the mold and
should be equipped with interlocks (such as electrical, hydraulic
and/or pneumatic) that allow the machine to operate only when the
gate is closed. In addition, a mechanical safety device (with a
monitoring device) is provided to physically prevent the platen
from closing. Do not attempt to override any of the interlocks
or to reach over, under, around, or through the operator’s gate
(or other guards) while the machine is operating.
[Photo description: Highlighted area
includes the operator's gate.]
View close-up |
|
(4) |
The control panel on the front of the injection molding machine
features a red Emergency Stop Button that prevents all machine
motion when pressed.
[Photo description: Highlighted area
includes the control panel on the injection molding machine.]
View
close-up |
|
(5) |
The purge guard covers the nozzle of the injection molding machine
and helps prevent crushing injuries or burns from the splatter of
molten plastic material. The purge guard should be interlocked.
[Photo description: Highlighted area
includes the purge guard that covers the nozzle.]
View close-up |
|
(6) |
When the hopper is in place, it
guards the feed throat opening (which connects the hopper to the
injection unit) and prevents insertion of a hand or limb into
the area where the screw is turning. Wear appropriate personal
protective equipment (PPE) and, where possible, use shields to
protect employees from splatter. Safety signs should be posted to alert workers of
potential hazards. If servicing and maintenance is needed,
follow appropriate lockout/tagout procedures.
[Photo description:
Highlighted area includes the hopper guard.]
View close-up |
|
(7) |
The hydraulic safety interlock valve prevents the clamp from
closing when the operator’s gate is open. [Photo
description: Highlighted area includes the safety interlock
valve.] View close-up |
|
(8) |
Place a guard at the opening for parts discharge to prevent an
employee from reaching under the operator’s gate and into the mold
area. A chute, conveyor, or other object can take the place of a
guard attached to the machine if it prevents access to this area.
[Photo description: Highlighted area
includes a guard at the opening for parts discharge.]
View
close-up |
|
(9) |
Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a face shield,
heat-resistant gloves, and other appropriate equipment must be worn,
when necessary, while
performing maintenance or servicing activities when a hazard may
be present. [Photo description:
Highlighted area includes personal protective equipment such as a
face shield.] View close-up |
|
(10) |
The electrical cabinet guards the machine’s electrical system and
protects unauthorized people from electrical hazards.
[Photo description: Highlighted area
includes the electrical cabinet.]
View close-up |
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