Leibinger and Komax join forces for automated cabinet wiring

Shorter throughput times, lower error rates and more efficient use of skilled labour are key success factors for control cabinet and machine manufacturers. With their new partnership, Leibinger and Komax now offer a wire processing solution designed to address exactly these challenges: the powerful Zeta 620 G2 combines automated processing with integrated continuous inkjet (CIJ) marking, helping manufacturers streamline operations and increase productivity.

The Zeta 620 G2 consistently automates cabinet wiring workflows. From the digital wire list to the ready to install wire bundle, the system creates an efficient production process with minimal manual intervention. The machine processes wires with cross-sections from 0.5 to 6 mm², supports up to 24 wire types and offers flexible ferrule processing options.

With the integration of two Leibinger IQJet continuous inkjet printers, wire marking becomes an integral part of the automated production workflow. Via the KMI interface, the systems are fully integrated into the machine and synchronised with the processing operation. Wires are automatically and precisely marked according to specifications – without requiring additional process steps.

‘With the market launch of the Zeta 620 G2 featuring integrated marking, we are setting new standards in automated wire processing,’ said Matthias Felder, product manager at Komax.

Michael Wöhrmann, business development at Leibinger, added: ‘By extending the system with integrated marking, we have created an even more seamless workflow that significantly streamlines day to day operations for control cabinet manufacturers.’

To ensure maximum flexibility, two IQJet printers are used – one standard and one pigmented version. This enables reliable, high contrast marking on both light and dark wires, including properties, batch numbers and customer specific text. Leibinger’s extensive ink portfolio delivers optimal, abrasion resistant and overprint resistant printing results on a wide variety of wire insulation materials. Users also benefit from a complimentary sample testing service to identify the ideal ink for their specific application.

As an innovation leader in industrial coding and marking, Leibinger brings key technological advantages to the partnership.

‘With IQJet, we offer a plug and print marking system that can operate for up to five years without maintenance. It stands for exceptionally easy integration thanks to smart interface connectivity, intuitive day to day operation and minimal maintenance requirements. IQJet is designed to do exactly what users expect: deliver reliable printing performance without creating additional workload for operators,’ said Florian Kuppel, senior project manager product innovations.

The company’s automatic nozzle sealing technology ensures maximum print quality and high uptime. At the end of production, the nozzle seals airtight, preventing ink from drying out. As a result, the printer is immediately ready for operation again even after extended production pauses – without flushing procedures.

Additional benefits are provided by the integrated Refresh Station. It enables fully automatic printhead cleaning in just two minutes without operators coming in contact with solvents. This function is particularly valuable in demanding applications such as wire processing, where ink particles may settle inside the printhead. The Refresh Station is included as standard in all IQJet systems.

An integrated uninterruptible power supply (UPS) provides additional operational security. In the event of a power failure, the system shuts down in a controlled manner, ensuring a safe restart without additional cleaning effort.

The integration of Leibinger marking technology into the Zeta 620 G2 was carried out in close collaboration between the two companies and specifically tailored to the requirements of automated cabinet wiring. The primary focus was the seamless integration of the marking system into the existing machine and data workflow.

‘The IQJet marking solution could be integrated into the ongoing process in a compact and highly reliable way,’ explained Michael Franz, project manager at the Komax Group.