When constructing plastic or rubber injection molds, in addition to the part design the molding environment that the tool will run in is of the utmost importance. A mold designer must be aware of the injection molding process that the tool is designed for, the press it will run in including the clamping system and whether or not it is a vertical or horizontal clamping press.
Each injection molding press will have a particular clamping pressure that is either delivered in an electric or hydraulic system. Some molders prefer to use all hydraulic presses, while some have a mix of hydraulic and electric, while other molders use only electric machines. There are some benefits to both, but the mold designer must be well aware of the power and pressure utilized in the press of choice prior to designing and constructing the injection molds.
A mold designer, and mold builder will need to know the tonnage of the press, the clamping orientation and clamping pressure whether it is electric or hydraulic, and they will also need to know the barrel capacity of the press. This will determine how much material will be able to flow into the mold, and based on cycle times and cavitation, will determine whether or not the tool is designed to meet projected production volume requirements.
Each injection molding press will also have a certain type of mounting system to secure the mold in the press. A toe-clamping system is most common, although a skilled mold designer can adapt the tool to fit even a custom designed mounting system. The platen must be large enough to hold the mold but it must also allow enough room to pass through the tie-bars when loading or unloading the mold. The tie bars hold the mounting platens in place which securely hold the mold in the press, and also contain the ejection system allowing opening and closing of the mold.
Michiana Global Mold has vast experience designing complex, precision molds for various industries, meeting all requirements of our customers molding environment. We are valuable addition to any supply chain, providing proven solutions with high performing quality steel molds. Contact us today for a free design consultation, and to learn more about our discount and rebate programs.
No comments:
Post a Comment