Engel awarded for the first autonomous injection moulding cell

As part of Swiss Plastics Expo 2026, held in Lucerne from 20 to 22 January, Engel was honoured by the expert audience’s public vote for the first autonomous injection moulding cell, demonstrating how AI-based process optimisation can already be implemented in industrial practice. The fully automated production cell is built around the Austrian manufacturer’s all-electric e-mac 80 injection moulding machine and uses digital assistance systems from its inject AI portfolio. The intelligently networked unit autonomously controls key process parameters, minimises material consumption, eliminates scrap and reduces setup times to a minimum – even without in-depth process knowledge on the part of the operator.

With inject AI, Engel takes digital process optimisation to a new level. Building on the inject 4.0 platform, the new solution combines injection moulding expertise with artificial intelligence, creating a production environment in which machine, process and quality assurance interact intelligently and proactively. The system continuously analyses all relevant process data, detects deviations in real time and automatically initiates corrective actions – before scrap occurs. This enables material savings of up to 5%, while maintaining stable quality and maximum process reliability – regardless of operator qualification or external influences. In addition to these automated decision-making processes, the system drastically reduces setup and ramp-up times, significantly easing the workload for staff. With every cycle, the system learns and continuously improves precision and efficiency. With inject AI, Engel paves the way for autonomous injection moulding cells: intelligent, self-optimising production that saves resources, ensures quality and directly addresses the shortage of skilled workers.

With this approach, Engel aims to address market requirements in a targeted way, particularly those of Switzerland, which is characterised by high quality standards, a shortage of skilled workers and a strong focus on innovation. The experts awarded the Austrian manufacturer the Swiss Plastics Expo Award 2026, accepted by Christopher Vitz, Managing Director of Engel Schweiz, for the consistent evolution of the inject 4.0 digital control system into inject AI – recognized not only for its technological merits, but also for the tangible economic benefits it delivers in use. The award confirms ENGEL’s strategy of viewing Switzerland as a key market for innovative applications. The company aims to offer customers the greatest possible added value through technical excellence, fast response times and strong industry focus.