Product Descriptions
Labotek Gravimetric-Balance (MCBalance) Systems - High-Precision Gravimetric Dosing Technology
Developed by Labotek, the Gravimetric-Balance (MCBalance) systems are 100 percent gravimetric dosing solutions designed for extremely precise and repeatable feeding of masterbatch, colorants, additives, and similar dosing materials in the plastics processing industry. Used in injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, and PET production processes, these systems deliver critical advantages in terms of color consistency, raw material savings, and overall process stability.
Unlike volumetric dosing systems, MCBalance continuously weighs the dosed material and automatically recalibrates itself. As a result, changes in material bulk density, flow characteristics, or process conditions do not affect dosing accuracy. This leads to higher product quality while significantly reducing masterbatch consumption.
Gravimetric Operating Principle and Dosing Technology
Labotek MCBalance systems operate entirely on a gravimetric principle. The system continuously measures the weight of the dosed material and automatically adjusts the feeding rate according to the target dosing value. Thanks to this continuous feedback loop:
Dosing is calibrated in real time
The dosing ratio remains constant even when material density changes
Color fluctuations and part-to-part deviations are eliminated
At the core of the system is a dosing cylinder combined with a stepper motor. This combination ensures a continuous, vibration-free material flow. The stepper motor provides extremely controlled feeding without pulsation, a design widely regarded as one of the most accurate dosing methods available.
When a new material is introduced or the density of the masterbatch changes, MCBalance automatically detects the difference and adjusts the feeding parameters accordingly. This minimizes the need for operator intervention.
Technical Specifications and Numerical Data
Key technical and numerical characteristics of the Labotek Gravimetric-Balance (MCBalance) systems include:
Dosing capacity
0.07 - 180 kg/hour, based on standard granular masterbatch with an approximate bulk density of 0.8 kg/dm³
Dosing accuracy
Maximum precision achieved through continuous gravimetric measurement
Power supply
80 - 260 Vac, 50/60 Hz
Integrated power unit with automatic voltage selection
Maximum power consumption
80 watts
Applications
Injection molding machines, including PET applications
Extrusion lines
Blow molding machines
Input signals
Potential-free contact
24 Vdc start signal
Extruder tachometer signal, 0-30 Vdc
Output signals
Alarm
Warning
Solenoid valve output for automatic material loader
Communication and data infrastructure
TCP/IP
Modbus
CANbus
Data storage and monitoring
Internal memory for logging static changes
MC-LAN software for dynamic data logging and centralized monitoring
User Interface and Ease of Operation
MCBalance systems feature a menu-guided and highly user-friendly control structure. With multilingual interface support, the system can be easily used in global production environments. Operator training time is short, and parameter adjustments can be made quickly and safely.
Using the MC-LAN monitoring system, all MCBalance units in a facility can be supervised from a single computer. This architecture provides major advantages for centralized quality control and recipe management, especially in plants with multiple machines.
In addition, the system's modular design allows changeover in less than 60 seconds. Cleaning and maintenance procedures are simple and fast, minimizing machine downtime.
Economic Advantages and Payback Period
One of the most important benefits of Labotek MCBalance systems is their very short return on investment. Thanks to gravimetric dosing:
Masterbatch and additive consumption is reduced
Scrap caused by color deviations is minimized
Product quality and visual consistency are improved
As a result, the typical payback period for MCBalance systems is between 6 and 9 months. In many applications, the investment is recovered in less than one year.
Modular Design and Accessory Compatibility
MCBalance is fully compatible with Labotek's modular auxiliary equipment ecosystem. The system can be integrated with:
Hopper loaders, vacuum conveying units
Hoppers and intermediate bins
Neckpiece solutions
Mixers
Water-cooled PET neckpiece systems
This modular approach transforms MCBalance from a standalone dosing unit into a complete color and additive management solution.
Industrial Advantages and Process Benefits
The main advantages provided by Labotek Gravimetric-Balance systems include:
Maximum accuracy through 100 percent gravimetric dosing
Significant savings in masterbatch and additive costs
Stable color and part quality through continuous calibration
Operation independent of material density fluctuations
Easy operation, fast cleaning, and low maintenance requirements
Short payback time and high return on investment
With these capabilities, Labotek MCBalance represents a strategic dosing solution for plastic processors with high color sensitivity, strict cost control requirements, and a demand for consistent, repeatable product quality.
