Control solution for global expansion
- References / Success Stories
- Plastics
- 20.8.2025
- Reading Time: {{readingTime}} min
Contents
The story behind the decision
The starting point of the collaboration was Shibaura Machine’s goal to expand its machine portfolio for export and strengthen its global position. Founded in Japan in 1875, Shibaura Machine is a leading manufacturer of precision injection molding machines, machine tools, die-casting machines, industrial robots, and extruders.
“The new control solution partner had to understand our key markets and their regulations – such as the new CRA – while also being recognized for uncompromising quality, and global leadership in control precision,” explains Dr. Georg Holzinger, Managing Executive Officer of Shibaura Machine.
The decision was made quickly: With more than 40 years of experience in automation and control of complex injection molding processes, as well as in-depth knowledge of the global injection molding market, we were able to convince.
S-GenXt 180-7A Injection Molding Machine:
From idea to trade fair stage
The successful collaboration is already bearing fruit: After months of intensive cooperation, visitors at K 2025 can experience the S-GenXt 180-7A hydraulic injection molding machine in live operation – equipped with our control system.
This system is based on the KePlast i3018, with both hardware and software precisely tailored to the requirements of Shibaura Machine’s customers. In addition, the system is seamlessly integrated into Shibaura Machine’s IIoT platform “machiNetCloud.”
“The new control solution partner had to understand our key markets and their regulations – such as the new CRA – while also being recognized for uncompromising quality, and global leadership in control precision.”
Designed for diverse requirements
Injection molders benefit from outstanding performance, high process transparency, and improved energy efficiency.
Thanks to its versatility, the machine is the ideal solution for a wide range of applications, particularly for the demanding requirements of today’s packaging industry.
“Our IIoT platform ‘machiNetCloud’ adds an additional level of intelligence to the machine by collecting live data and turning it into actionable insights,” adds Holzinger.
Technology that convinces
“The control solution uses the KePlast i3018 system with the powerful CP 056 and ensures adaptive process optimization. A stationary 18-inch HMI multi-touch panel enables Shibaura Machine customers to operate the machine intuitively with the familiar look & feel,” says Günther Weilguny, Head of Automation Plastics, KEBA Industrial Automation.
Support of the communication standards EUROMAP 77 and OPC-UA ensures seamless IT/OT integration for users.
Shibaura Machine complements this with in-house technologies such as Virtual Machine Expert, an AI-powered monitoring tool for predictive maintenance, integrated drying systems, real-time control of peripheral devices, and much more.
Together, these technologies are designed for maximum productivity, consistent part quality, and compatibility with recycled PET (rPET).
“The control solution uses the KePlast i3018 system with the powerful CP 056 and ensures adaptive process optimization. A stationary 18-inch HMI multi-touch panel enables Shibaura Machine customers to operate the machine intuitively with the familiar look & feel.”
Outlook: Creating solutions for tomorrow’s challenges
“This partnership marks the beginning of a broader collaboration. We are already planning the rollout of additional machine models equipped with our control systems,” adds Weilguny.
Injection molders, as end users, gain measurable added value from the intelligent and reliable solution.
You ask, we answer – also at K!
Not only at our KEBA booth in Hall 12, Booth B51, but also at the Shibaura Machine booth in Hall 15, Booth B21, our experts will be ready to present our control solution and answer your questions.
Come visit us. You are warmly invited, and our teams are already looking forward to your visit.
