Figure 1: MTPReel-O: Safe and orderly guidance of the teach panel on ENGEL.

Safety, efficient organization, and cleanliness are becoming increasingly important in modern production processes. A current example of this is the new cooperation between Sumcab Specialcable GmbH and ENGEL AUSTRIA GmbH: As part of an agreed product partnership, the specialist in mechatronic cable systems will now supply its automatic cable retraction system MTPReel™ also for earlier ENGEL control generations and their handheld operating devices.

ENGEL, one of the world’s leading suppliers of injection molding machines and automation solutions for plastics processing, has already been relying on the integration of the MTPReel™ system for several years. The system is designed to noticeably improve both workplace ergonomics and operational safety. From now on, the retraction system will be offered as an optional accessory for the models C30–C35, C70 E15 FSOE, C70 ED10, and C100E.

“The challenge with mobile control devices in production often lies in safe and orderly storage – and this is precisely where MTPReel™ comes in”

Lothar Schütz, Managing Director of Sumcab Specialcable GmbH.

In addition to reducing tripping hazards, the system protects the cable material from premature wear and saves time in day-to-day handling.

From a technical perspective, the product convinces with a few well-thought-out features: an integrated braking module ensures gentle rewinding, automatic locking every 50 cm enables flexible applications, and a rotating contact transmission system guarantees reliable data communication during operation. The MTPReel™ is manufactured in a specialized plant in Italy – under strict quality standards, as the company emphasizes.

Figure 2: Tripping hazard caused by connection cables lying on the floor

ENGEL confirms that this solution represents a practical addition to existing control technology. Users thus benefit not only from the clean and protected routing of HMI connection cables but also from the elimination of tripping hazards caused by cables lying on the floor – an important prerequisite for improving workplace safety in production environments. For Sumcab, the partnership is also a strategically important step in further positioning itself as a solution provider for leading manufacturers in the industrial sector.

Figure 3: The automatic cable retraction system MTPReel™ from Sumcab in use with the ENGEL handheld operating device C70

About ENGEL: Founded in 1945, ENGEL is today one of the world’s leading manufacturers of injection molding machines and integrated automation solutions for plastics processing. With production sites in Europe, Asia, and North America as well as sales and service subsidiaries in more than 85 countries, ENGEL is among the innovation and technology leaders in the industry. The company offers tailor-made solutions for applications in the automotive, packaging, electronics, and medical technology industries.

About Sumcab: Sumcab Specialcable GmbH, headquartered in Pfedelbach, is the German subsidiary of the Spanish Sumcab Group. As a specialist cable manufacturer with its own production facility in Barcelona, Sumcab develops and supplies high-quality, custom-assembled cable systems for industrial applications – particularly for robotics and automation. In addition to product quality, Sumcab places special emphasis on technical consulting and comprehensive service to provide its customers with complete practical solutions.