Sumitomo Demag focusing German I/M production facility on all-electrics

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery GmbH plans to turn its plant in Wiehe, Germany, into a major manufacturing base for the company’s all-electric injection molding machine range.

According to a news release, the project is part of a 50 million euro (US$71 million) investment in its Wiehe and Schwaig, Germany, plants in anticipation of an economic turnaround.

The Wiehe facility, which up to now has made both hydraulic and electric machines of up to 210 tonnes clamp force, will in future produce both the new IntElect machine as well as the Japanese SE range.

“Focusing our traditional manufacturing base at Wiehe on all-electric injection molding machines will help us be prepared for the revival of demand that will follow the current market crisis,” said Tetsuya Okamura, spokesperson for the management. “The benefits of the precision, productivity and energy-efficiency of electric injection molding machines appeal to our customers and the polymer processing community more than ever.”

The decision to invest in the Wiehe and Schwaig plants, taken despite the current market crisis, reflects Sumitomo Heavy Industries’ determination to maintain and strengthen both of the Demag plants in Germany, Okamura added.