The matchplate molding machine has a custom-made HPU powered by a 30-hp, 1800-rpm electric motor driving a 42-gpm hydraulic pump with horsepower limiting control. Click on image for larger view.According to Boris Shiller, Beardsley & Piper engineering manager, more than 500 of the earlier designs of the Matchblomatic are still in use today in all types of foundries around the world. The new Matchblomatic Series features a semi-enclosed design, independently variable cope and drag height, an updated proportional control system, quick change pattern features, automatically adjustable blow pressure, larger volume sand magazine, a butterfly valve sand gate, an automatic spray pattern, and a fully updated control and operator interface scheme.
The machine's hydraulic system was designed and built by Flodyne/Hydradyne Inc., a Bosch Rexroth distributor, system designer, and integrator located in Hanover Park, Ill. The hydraulic system includes a custom hydraulic power unit (HPU) incorporating an 80-gal reservoir and Bosch Rexroth 42-gpm maximum horsepower-limiting pump driven by a 30-hp, 1800-rpm electric motor. The high-pressure portion of the duty cycle is 3000 psi.
The pump was selected for its high efficiency, low noise, and reliability. Its horsepower-limiting option greatly reduced the size of the electric motor needed. Furthermore, it allows for a low-pressure standby operation of the machine to further consere energy.