What Is APG clamping machine

APG Equipment (Automatic Pressure Gelation Equipment)is a technology used for producing insulating materials, widely applied in power transmission and distribution systems.

Below is a brief introduction to APG equipment:

1. Technology Origin and Development

APG technology originated in the early 1970s, evolving from the Pressure Gelation (PG) process developed by Ciba-Geigy in Switzerland. In the late 1980s, China introduced complete sets of APG equipment, formulations, and supporting chemical materials from abroad, significantly improving the quality of integral epoxy resin insulation structures.

 2. Process Principle

The APG process consists of three stages: preliminary mixing, automatic pressure gelation, and post-mold curing. After metal inserts are placed into the mold, the mold is preheated to a temperature 80–100 °C higher than that of the epoxy resin mixture. The APG equipment’s pressure system then injects the epoxy resin system (which has undergone vacuum degassing) into the mold cavity. Rapid heat exchange occurs between the resin and the hot mold walls, initiating the curing reaction.

3. Technical Features

High degree of automation: The entire production process is controlled by a computer program, reducing manual intervention and improving production efficiency and consistency.  

Pressure gelation under vacuum: The epoxy resin is heated in a vacuum environment, allowing it to flow fully and fill the mold, resulting in a dense internal structure and excellent electrical performance.  

Wide applicability: Capable of producing insulating materials of various shapes and sizes, such as instrument transformers, disconnectors, insulating tanks, etc. It is also suitable for encapsulating live parts, enhancing product safety.  

Excellent product quality: Thanks to automated control, production parameters are consistent and precise for each product.

4. Application Fields

APG technology is applicable not only to the manufacture of large electrical components but also to small or micro electronic components, replacing traditional vacuum casting processes. It is especially suitable for the mass production of medium-voltage epoxy resin insulation parts, such as encapsulated poles for vacuum circuit breakers, post insulators, and insulators for live displays.

In summary, APG equipment represents an efficient and automated insulation material production technology. By precisely controlling the production process, it can produce high-quality insulation products, and is widely used in the power and electronics industries.