Isolation channel tool

from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

An insulating channel tool is used to manufacture plastic parts.

An isolation channel tool is used in the injection molding of plastic in order to save the need to demold the sprue system . Compare also: hot runner mold

functionality

With conventional techniques, the material in the distribution channel is hardened at the same time as the solidified molding and is removed from the mold at the end of the injection cycle. This creates space for a new molded part and a usable inflow.

In the case of the insulating channel tool, the sprue distribution channel is so enlarged that a permanently solidified, insulating, dimensionally stable skin is formed around the material on the walls of this channel, which keeps the feed of the material liquid even after the finished molded part has been removed from the mold (ejection) ( "plastic soul"). Inside the sprue manifold there is a constantly plastic area that is used to fill new molded parts.

Isolation channel tools result not only in material savings, but also in energy savings, since the sprue channel and the material it contains do not have to be reheated with each cycle.

General

In order to put the tool into operation, a series of cycles must be started until the isolation channel has been completely formed. The cycle times must be short enough to prevent the plastic material from solidifying.

In addition to the conventional sprue system with a main parting plane, insulating channel tools also have an auxiliary separating plane, which is used to be able to easily remove the insulating channel distributor in the event of an interruption in the process (e.g. due to a malfunction or a color change).

The isolation channel is large compared to a conventional sprue. Isolation channel tools were only used temporarily in plastics technology despite their advantages.

Structure of the tool

By opening the auxiliary separation level, the frozen insulating duct can be easily removed in the event of a color change or other interruptions. The auxiliary separation level can only be opened when the main separation level is closed. When closed, the parting lines are fixed with clamping claws or locking straps. Locking tabs can often optionally lock both parting lines.

Advantages of an insulating channel tool

  • Isolation channel tools are characterized by good thermal insulation and low heat loss.
  • Reliable: smooth channel. Prerequisite: well-stabilized molding compounds
  • Economical system if continuous operation is guaranteed
  • Color changes are very quick because the insulating channel is easy to remove

literature

  • Peter Unger: Hot runner technology. Hanser Verlag, Munich 2004
  • Heinrich Kahn, Dieter Eh, Harald Vogel: 1000 design examples for tool and mold making in injection molding. Hanser Verlag, Munich 2008, ISBN 978-3-446-41243-9
  • Georg Menges, Walter Michaeli , Paul Mohren: Injection molding tools design, construction and application. 6th edition, Hanser Verlag, Munich 2007, ISBN 978-3-446-40601-8