Firebox Temperature Controller

Overview   |   Details   |   Features


Overview

The Firebox hot runner temperature controller is specifically designed to interface with the Polyshot Heated Sprue Bushing, Multitip System, and the Bank System, ensuring seamless integration with your hot runner system. It is engineered to withstand the rigorous environment of the injection molding room floor. This hot runner temperature controller is a closed-loop unit with provisions for manual or “Open Loop” temperature control.

The 3601 Firebox hot runner controller features an Auto-Tuning PID function, which precisely matches the controller’s electronic algorithms to the hot runner system it is connected to. This is accomplished by engaging the Auto-Tune function through the operator interface, which initiates an electronic tuning cycle between the hot runner temperature controller and the hot runner system it’s controlling.

Upon completion of this cycle, the Firebox hot runner controller rewrites its PID algorithms to precisely match the runnerless molding system it is controlling. When coupled with the controller’s burst fire relay system, the hot runner temperature control of processing temperature is excellent.

firebox Temperature Controller

Details

Firebox 3601F Polyshot 220 volt controller, part number 3601F, with high gloss powder coat finish, faceplate protection handle, upper display, load indicator, lower display, alarm light, manual mode light, auto/manual key, down key, up key, mode key, U.L. listed circuit breaker,

Controller Type:

Closed loop, automatic compensation with manual open loop proportional selector, single zone.

Thermocouple Required:

Type J, constant grounded or ungrounded.

Control Range:

32° to 1382° F, 0° to 750° C.

Control Accuracy:

The control accuracy of the Firebox hot runner controller is +/- 0.1% of range, ensuring precise operation.

Alarms:

User defined above and below set point, open or reversed thermocouple.

Power Output:

240 VAC 15 amps maximum.

Power Control:

Solid state relay with zero crossing director.

Load Fuse:

ABC type, 15 amps.

Control Fuse:

ABC type, 2 amps.

Power Requirements:

208 - 240 VAC, Single Phase.

Alarm Type

“Sonalert” 80 DB

Dimensions:

6.50” wide x 4.25” high x 8.25” deep

165mm wide x 108mm high x 300mm deep.

Dimensions do not include handles.

Shipping Weight:

6 lbs., 2.7kg.


Features

  • Upper Display: LED display indicating hot runner temperature as measured by Type J Thermocouple.
  • Lower Display: LED display indicating set point during Auto mode and the percent power during Manual mode for hot runner controllers.
  • Load: LED indicates when the Zone is energized.
  • ALM: LED indicates when the alarm is active.
  • MAN: LED lit when the hot runner temperature controller is in Manual mode.
  • Mode Key: Steps the hot runner controller through Alarm Low, Alarm High, and Auto-tuning options.
  • Up Key: Increases the set point for hot runner temperature controllers, ensuring precise control during the injection molding process. Also used in alarm setting and auto-tuning procedures in the hot runner system.
  • Down Key: Decreases the set point for hot runner temperature controllers. Also used in alarm setting and auto-tuning procedures.
  • Auto/Manual Key: Clears the alarm when pressed once. Toggles between Auto and Manual mode for hot runner temperature controllers.
  • Circuit Breaker: To activate the Firebox hot runner controller, the rocker switch must be pushed to the “on” position. This switch should be “off” whenever the hot runner temperature controller unit is being plugged in or unplugged from a 208-240 volt single-phase outlet.
  • Thermocouple Failure Protection: If the hot runner temperature process was stable when the thermocouple failed, the hot runner temperature controller will transfer from auto to Manual mode. The hot runner system will automatically continue at the power level experienced in the two minutes prior to the power failure, provided that the level was less than 75%, and a power change of less than 5% occurred. This will allow the hot runner system to continue functioning until a thermocouple repair can be made. The reliability of our hot runner temperature controllers ensures that the percentage of power is accurately displayed in the lower display. If the hot runner temperature process is not stable or the power level is greater than 75%, the output is disabled.
  • Alarms: User-defined hot runner temperature limits that are the extremes on either side of the set point at which the hot runner systems can operate.
  • Alarm Low: Represents the low hot runner temperature alarm. The alarm sounds when the hot runner temperature strays too far below the set point.
  • Alarm High: This represents the high hot runner temperature alarm. The alarm sounds when the hot runner temperature strays too far above the set point.
  • Auto-Tune: Provides automatic tuning of the PID parameters to fit the characteristics of your particular hot runner thermal system. Successful completion of the auto-tune procedure requires the hot runner temperature to cross the set point four times within eighty minutes after auto-tune has started. Typical auto-tune procedures for hot runner temperature controllers last five to ten minutes. During auto-tune, the lower display alternately displays the set point hot runner temperature. Any change in set point while in auto-tune reinitiates the auto-tune procedure. Auto-tuning should be repeated after making any changes in the molding process.
  • Temperature Units: The Firebox is capable of measuring temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit. The default setting is Fahrenheit. To change the setting to Celsius, contact Polyshot for further information.

Shop at Polyshot Today

Our best-in-class customer service ensures a fast response, with 1 to 2 day quotes and stocked spare parts for your convenience. When customers reach out, they can expect to speak directly with knowledgeable professionals.

Additionally, all our parts are proudly made in the USA, guaranteeing high quality and reliability.

Multi Zone Controllers

Overview   |   LEC   |   G24


Overview

For more complex applications, our Gammaflux Controllers provide multi-zone temperature control with systems ranging from 18 to 480 zones, making them ideal for managing any hot runner system. These hot runner controllers are ideal for large-scale operations where precise temperature control across multiple zones is critical. The Gammaflux system’s sequential valve gate control feature ensures that the hot runner temperature is consistent across all zones, improving part quality and reducing cycle times.

The Gammaflux hot runner controllers also include advanced process control features such as early material leak detection and power management, further enhancing the reliability and efficiency of your hot runner systems. Whether you need to manage runner temperature or optimize temperature control across multiple zones, the Gammaflux temperature controllers offer the solution you need.

Known as a pioneer in temperature control technology, Gammaflux developed the first products to anticipate temperature changes, sense wiring and heater problems, and react instantly to avoid serious mold damage. All Gammaflux systems feature the company’s unique Triangulated Control Technology® for the best temperature sensing, controlling, and actuation capabilities.

The company’s product line includes:

LEC – for up to 24 zones of temperature control

G24 – for 18 to 480 zones of temperature control

Gammaflux Controllers and Polyshot Hot Runner Systems are a perfect match for your molding needs, offering enhanced part quality and precise process control for greater efficiency.


LEC Temperature Controller

Control panel interface with various labeled sections and icons including display, actual row, setting row, entry area, zone select, zone status, and zone ID; contains specific indicators for thermocouple status, temperature, fuse status, heater status, alarm status, automatic/manual mode, power, and different control buttons.
Click to Enlarge

Designed for smaller hot runner system applications, the LEC is offered with 2, 6, and 12 zone enclosures, ensuring compatibility with various hot runner systems.. A network module allows you to link two 6 or 12 zone enclosures together for up to 24 zones of control. The LEC features a modular design for simple temperature controller card removal, addition, or replacement.
Each 6 and 12 zone LEC enclosure comes prewired, ready to accept an optional network module. With a network module, users can connect the LEC to a laptop or PC to take advantage of advanced features including security settings, remote input, and unique Gammaflux software including Gammavision (SPC data/graphing analysis), Mold Doctor (advanced mold troubleshooting), and Field Calibrator. The network module also enables a link to plant monitoring systems.
Learn more about Gammaflux’s LEC temperature controller here.


G24 Temperature Controller

Gammaflux’s G24 Temperature Controller has 18 to 480 zones of temperature control and offers unparalleled precision for your hot runner system, featuring the following benefits:

Easier to Use | Less Expensive | Smaller | Faster | More Flexible/Standardization | Improved Interlocks | Mold Doctor® | Early Material/Leak Detection

Learn more about Gammaflux’s G24 temperature controller here.

Learn more about the integrated temperature or stand-alone sequential valve gate control (SVGC) applications of the G24 here.

Gammaplux temperature controller with digital display on wheeled platform
Click to Enlarge