![Set-up time optimization in injection molding | ENGEL Picture shows machine operator using the menu-guided set-up assistant to optimize set-up times in injection molding](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/3543x2362/d88c4d121a/digitale-loesungen-ruestzeitoptimierung-spritzguss-desktop.jpg/m/0x440/filters:format(webp))
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Set-up time optimization in injection molding
Reduce set-up times by up to 80% with the set-up assistant
The set-up assistant guides the machine operator safely and quickly through the tool change using a checklist. Integrated into the control system, the assistant reduces set-up time in combination with other technical equipment. The results of automatic set-up time optimization in injection molding include shorter product changeover times, increased production efficiency, error minimization, and optimized processes. An 80% reduction in set-up time is achieved in combination with other measures such as media coupling, quick-clamping device, preheating station, etc. The set-up assistant is available as an option for all machine types.
![Fast mold change thanks to automatically optimized set-up processes | ENGEL Picture shows a machine operator setting up an ENGEL injection molding machine](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/b0c395426f/digitale-loesungen-ruestvorgang-spritzgiessmaschine.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
The set-up assistant interactively guides the machine operator through the individual steps of the tool change process. This significantly reduces machine downtime. Consequently, set-up times are shortened and overall productivity is increased, as the injection molding machines spend more time producing rather than being blocked by lengthy set-up processes.
![Reducing set-up times during injection molding with set-up assistant | ENGEL Picture shows a person setting up a green injection molding machine from ENGEL](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/54836fdd4a/digitale-loesungen-ruestzeitverkuerzung-spritzguss.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
The standardized and menu-guided approach of the set-up assistant minimizes the risk of errors during mold changes. A checklist guides the machine operator step by step through the set-up process. In addition to optimizing set-up time in injection molding, this leads to fewer production errors.
![Quick and safe mold set-up | ENGEL Picture shows production employee in front of an open mold room of an ENGEL injection molding machine](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/a95193936d/digitale-loesungen-schneller-werkzeugwechsel-dank-ruestassistent.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
As much as possible, the set-up assistant automatically executes the program steps for the set-up process of the injection molding machine. Manual steps are displayed in the control system. This allows even less experienced employees to perform set-ups safely and without errors, as manual intervention is significantly reduced. Reliance on highly qualified staff is minimized.
![Efficient production thanks to automatic optimization of machine set-up time in injection molding | ENGEL Picture shows employees doing a fast mold change](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/d0ca6842d3/digitale-loesungen-automatische-optimierung-ruestzeit.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
The set-up assistant offers improved efficiency even for experienced set-up teams. It takes the pressure off experienced staff, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. Professionals can work even more efficiently.
![Optimization of set-up time in injection molding thanks to customized checklist and step-by-step instructions Picture shows injection molding machine operator at the control system using the set-up checklist](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/93aa78a063/digitale-loesungen-steuerung-checkliste-fuer-ruestvorgang.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
You can adapt the checklist to suit your needs. The order of the steps in the checklist can be rearranged and the language can be adapted to local usage. These changes can be made at any time directly at the injection molding machine controller.
![Fast mold change thanks to automatically optimized set-up processes | ENGEL Picture shows a machine operator setting up an ENGEL injection molding machine](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/b0c395426f/digitale-loesungen-ruestvorgang-spritzgiessmaschine.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
The set-up assistant interactively guides the machine operator through the individual steps of the tool change process. This significantly reduces machine downtime. Consequently, set-up times are shortened and overall productivity is increased, as the injection molding machines spend more time producing rather than being blocked by lengthy set-up processes.
![Reducing set-up times during injection molding with set-up assistant | ENGEL Picture shows a person setting up a green injection molding machine from ENGEL](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/54836fdd4a/digitale-loesungen-ruestzeitverkuerzung-spritzguss.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
The standardized and menu-guided approach of the set-up assistant minimizes the risk of errors during mold changes. A checklist guides the machine operator step by step through the set-up process. In addition to optimizing set-up time in injection molding, this leads to fewer production errors.
![Quick and safe mold set-up | ENGEL Picture shows production employee in front of an open mold room of an ENGEL injection molding machine](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/a95193936d/digitale-loesungen-schneller-werkzeugwechsel-dank-ruestassistent.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
As much as possible, the set-up assistant automatically executes the program steps for the set-up process of the injection molding machine. Manual steps are displayed in the control system. This allows even less experienced employees to perform set-ups safely and without errors, as manual intervention is significantly reduced. Reliance on highly qualified staff is minimized.
![Efficient production thanks to automatic optimization of machine set-up time in injection molding | ENGEL Picture shows employees doing a fast mold change](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/d0ca6842d3/digitale-loesungen-automatische-optimierung-ruestzeit.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
The set-up assistant offers improved efficiency even for experienced set-up teams. It takes the pressure off experienced staff, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. Professionals can work even more efficiently.
![Optimization of set-up time in injection molding thanks to customized checklist and step-by-step instructions Picture shows injection molding machine operator at the control system using the set-up checklist](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/93aa78a063/digitale-loesungen-steuerung-checkliste-fuer-ruestvorgang.jpg/m/700x350/filters:format(webp))
You can adapt the checklist to suit your needs. The order of the steps in the checklist can be rearranged and the language can be adapted to local usage. These changes can be made at any time directly at the injection molding machine controller.
Our experts are always available to assist you.
![7 steps to optimized set-up time in injection molding | ENGEL Picture shows open mold area for retooling the injection molding machine](https://a.storyblok.com/f/136567/4000x2667/8feb91193b/digitale-loesungen-optimierter-manueller-werkzeugwechel.jpg/m/640x0/filters:format(webp))
Preparation of the tool change
Start the set-up assistant
Remove the previous tool
Install and set up the new tool
Conduct system tests
Start of production
Follow-up
Result:
Significant reduction in machine downtime
Increasd process reliability and quality
More efficient use of skilled workers and set-up teams
Counteracting the shortage of skilled workers