Step-by-Step Layout Guide for Central Feeding Systems in Injection Molding Workshops

Introduction

Designing an effective central feeding system layout is essential for any injection molding plant that aims to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and achieve clean, streamlined production.

A good layout ensures:

• Smooth raw material flow
• Stable and uninterrupted machine operation
• Lower labor cost and easier system maintenance

This guide walks you through the entire layout process — step by step — and helps you avoid costly mistakes.

Step 1: Define Your Workshop Scope and Machine Arrangement

Start by assessing the basics:

• How many injection molding machines do you have?
• What is the layout pattern — single row, double row, U-shape?
• Is there available space for centralized storage and material control?

✅ Pro Tip: Arranging machines in groups or rows helps reduce pipeline length and simplifies distribution planning.

Step 2: Plan the Central Raw Material Area

This is where your material journey begins. It typically includes:

• Bulk bag unloading stations or manual bag dump stations
• Material silos or multi-bin hoppers
• Optional pre-mixing units for virgin/recycled material blending

Choose a location that offers:

• Easy forklift access
• Minimal interference with production flow

Step 3: Add Drying and Dehumidification (If Required)

If you are processing hygroscopic materials (like PET, PA, or PC), material drying is essential.

Dryers should be placed:

• Between the storage area and distribution network
• Close to machines if drying smaller batches
• Properly ventilated to release hot air

✅ Typical setup: One centralized dehumidifying dryer connected to multiple drying hoppers for different materials.

Step 4: Design the Vacuum Conveying Pipeline Network

This is the backbone of the central feeding system.

Key components include:

• Vacuum pump stations
• Stainless steel conveying pipes
• Material distribution valves
• Dust filters and pipe cleaning units

Layout guidelines:

• Keep pipe runs as short and straight as possible
• Avoid sharp bends and long horizontal runs
• Use color-coded or labeled pipes for easy identification

Step 5: Connect to Each Injection Molding Machine

At each molding machine:

• Install a material receiver or hopper loader
• Add a mini dryer if local drying is needed
• Optional: install a low-level sensor to avoid material shortages

For applications requiring precise mixing, connect a gravimetric blender before feeding materials into the machine.

Step 6: Set Up Centralized Control and Monitoring

A control panel with PLC and touchscreen interface should allow:

• Real-time monitoring of material flow
• Automatic alerts for errors or pipe blockages
• Scheduling of feeding times and material types for each machine

✅ Advanced option: Add remote monitoring or data logging for smart factory integration.

Suggested Layout Diagram (Optional Illustration)

• Left side: Raw material area (unloading, storage, drying)
• Center: Vacuum pump station and central control cabinet
• Right side: Injection molding machines with receiving hoppers
• Top view: Main pipelines with branches connecting each machine

Need a layout diagram customized to your factory? Let us know — we can help.

Conclusion

A successful central feeding system layout is more than just connecting pipes — it’s a strategic plan for clean, automated, and scalable production.

By following the steps above, you can:

• Avoid material delays
• Improve overall efficiency
• Create a system that grows with your factory

👉 Want a free custom layout for your plant?

Send us your machine layout and material info — we’ll provide a tailored design and quote.

“Want a full overview of how a central feeding system works? Check our complete guide here.”

---