In recent years, the emergence of Intelligent Sanitary Ware technology has brought the concept of "technology creating a better life" to life. This growing sector has experienced rapid development, with the market expanding year over year. Rubber and plastic products, as essential components of smart bathroom systems, play a crucial role in this "golden track."

On November 26, 2024, the Second KraussMaffei Intelligent Sanitary Ware Development Forum, co-hosted by KraussMaffei China and Ringier Events, successfully convened at the Marco Polo Xiamen Hotel. The forum attracted over 140 professionals from across the sanitary ware industry supply chain.

Mr. Leng Chuang, Head of IMM BU at KraussMaffei China, stated: "As an overseas enterprise of Sinochem, KraussMaffei integrates German advanced technology with the synergies of the group to commit to creating integrated 'equipment + material' solutions. And joins hands with upstream and downstream partners to provide outstanding products and services for the development of the sanitary ware industry."

The event highlighted KraussMaffei's extensive expertise in the Intelligent Sanitary Ware sector and brought together key players in the rubber and plastic materials and smart manufacturing industries to discuss cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and innovative applications for bathroom-related materials. Tang Minjun, Deputy Director of the Building Materials Division at the Shanghai Institute of Quality Inspection and Technical Research, delivered the opening presentation on the quality of smart toilet products. Industry leaders, including KraussMaffei, Elkem Silicones, Zhejiang Domore Engineering Plastics, ARROW Home Group, Joyou Health Home, Zhongguancun Huizhi Antibacterial Materials Innovation Alliance, and Xiamen Yingfeng Technology, shared insights from a range of perspectives, including materials, market trends, and manufacturing technologies.

Feng Liangzhong, Industry Development Manager, and Yang Kai, Senior Application Technology Expert at KraussMaffei, delivered captivating presentations on two major topics,“Liquid Silicone Rubber Solutions for Advancing Intelligent Sanitary Ware”and “Advancing Intelligent Sanitary Ware Development with ColorForm Technology”.

Precision Injection Molding Empowers the Upgrade of Sanitary Products

KraussMaffei leverages its global expertise and local innovation to lead the liquid silicone rubber (LSR) molding field, especially in all-electric injection molding. To address the challenges of processing LSR, KraussMaffei has developed a specialized plasticizing unit with key components, such as a pneumatically sealed nozzle and a uniquely designed screw. These features ensure precise and consistent injection of low-viscosity materials.

The patented APCplus System further enhances the process by accounting for the compressibility of silicone materials, ensuring consistent injection flow and enabling precision molding. This technology is well-suited for producing a variety of silicone components, such as shower heads and water tank seals commonly found in Intelligent Sanitary Ware.

Looking ahead, Feng highlighted KraussMaffei‘s focus on advancing multi-components injection molding and combining soft and hard material components to meet market demands for high-tech, high-quality, and cost-effective products. The company is committed to offering green, intelligent, one-stop solutions that encompass everything from raw materials to equipment.

Innovative Technology: Exploring New Applications in Intelligent Sanitary Ware

As products become smarter, the demand for high-quality aesthetics has also grown. KraussMaffei’s ColorForm Technology, an innovative process combining injection molding with polyurethane technology, has already seen extensive use in the automotive industry. KraussMaffei is now applying this technology to the sanitary ware sector.

ColorForm technology offers unparalleled design flexibility, enabling diverse textures and color effects. Components produced with this technology feature a high-gloss finish and a self-healing coating that can repair minor scratches at room temperature or with heat. This makes it an ideal solution for upgrading high-end bathroom products.

ColorForm technology provides an efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective production process, driving innovation in both design and technology within the smart sanitary ware industry.

KraussMaffei is committed to partnering with industry leaders to drive the sustainable growth of the smart bathroom sector. By harnessing innovative technologies, the company aims to meet consumers' growing expectations for high-quality living and shape a brighter future for the Intelligent Sanitary Ware industry.