Plastics Technology

JUN 2017

Plastics Technology - Dedicated to improving Plastics Processing.

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Five industry pros with more than 200 years of combined molding experience provide step-by-step best practices on mounting a mold in a horizontal injection molding machine. How to Mount an Injection Mold What started out as a routine request from one Plastics Technology columnist to another to review a draft for an upcoming article led to five highly experienced industry professionals collaborating to create this article about something virtually every molder does every day—sometimes many times a day—mounting a mold in a press. A well-trained and knowledgeable setup person understands the importance—and dangers—associated with the job. They have a heightened respect for their safety, as well as the safety of others, and for the molds, machines, and equipment they work with. They are an extremely valuable asset to every molding company. Before digging in, take note: No single procedure is correct for all applications. This procedure most likely will need to be modified to suit your special/unique situation or conditions. Also n ote that for safety reasons, the general procedure outlined here requires the pump to be turned on and off repeatedly. This and all other applicable safety requirements must be observed. WITH THE PUMP MOTOR OFF: 1. Check that the mold will cover at least 70% of the distance between the tiebars. a. This is a good rule of thumb. Most machine manuals will specify the minimum mold size for a given machine. Some machines even have placards mounted on the frame. b. The smaller the mold, the more the platens will "wrap around" or bow when clamped under high pressure. This can cause flash in the center of the mold. c. If the mold is excessively small, catastrophic damage to the platen can occur. 2. Ensure the safety strap is in the correct position and in good condition. 3. Check that the mold's eye bolt is secure. a. Only use shouldered eyebolts, or preferably, swivel-type hoist rings. By Piotr Witaszek, John Klees, Jim Fattori, Ernie Di Siro, and John Bozzelli QUESTIONS ABOUT INJECTION MOLDING? Visit the Injection Molding Zone. A well-trained and knowledgeable setup person understands the importance—and dangers—associated with the job. 52 JUNE 2017 Plastics Technology PTonline.com Tips and Techniques

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