GS Plastic Optics (Rochester, N.Y.) announced that it has expanded its capabilities by adding a Sumitomo injection molding press and a rated clamping force of 500kN.

The new injection molding press is the 13th installed press at GS Plastic Optics. Each molding press ranges in size from 30 to 22 tons-force. The company has also added a Sepro America automation station with the new press. The automation station has a press robot, riser and support leg. It also features a four cavity and one cavity vacuum remove end-of-arm tool.

GS Plastic Optics is using the new press and automatic systems to launch its installation qualification (IQ), operational qualification (OQ) and performance qualification (PQ) process.

“Last year we established the importance of implementing the IQ/OQ/PQ process at GSPO during the next substantial equipment purchase,” Lori Steggenilla, VP of operations, said in a press release. “We started the process with equipment specifications and site layout and continued through press and automation station installation. The process will continue right through to final operator qualification and culminate in turnover to production. We have learned so much about the power of the IQ/OQ/PQ process that we will certainly continue to use and enhance the techniques established on this project for years to come.”