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Lesson 2: Temperature Behavior in Molds

Temperature behavior inside an injection mold is the primary determining factor in final part quality and cycle time. It is important for part designers to understand how temperature behaves inside a mold cavity in order to optimize their designs. Then mold designers can evaluate temperature control options such as coolant line placements and size, and tool steel selection. Finally, when process engineers understand the mold design and coolant line circuit layouts, they can adjust the temperature control devices. All three steps are equally important to produce quality parts with the fastest possible cycle times.

This lesson covers: why the cooling phase is the ideal time to make cycle time adjustments; how conduction, convection, and radiation play a role in the cooling phase; factors that affect temperature behavior inside molds; the role of heat exchange, heat transfer effectiveness, and mold temperature cycles in cooling; and how wall thickness affects cooling behavior in a mold.

 

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Temperature Behavior in Molds

Learn the basics of mold design and how various design elements impact a molded part. Build your Circle of Knowledge lesson by lesson. 

Goals of Mold Design: Cooling (Level 1): 

  • Learn why the cooling phase of a molding cycle is the logical phase to optimize
  • Gain an understanding of the various types of cooling options to remove heat from a mold
  • Analyze real-life simulations and learn to determine optimal outcomes

Section Description: 

Injection molding is a process of heat exchange – the heat that goes into a mold must also be removed. Understanding the thermal behavior of polymers and the pathway of heat inside a mold is important for designing and processing a successful molding project.

This section covers explanations, simulations, cause-and-effect analyses, and the uses of various design features. Understanding these design features is important because they influence a part’s moldability, function, appearance, and quality.

Recommendation: Entry-Level Operators, Technicians, & Designers

Length: Lessons are approximately 15-20 minutes long each

The Kruse Training platform delivers knowledge and expertise developed over three decades in plastic injection molding. Now, companies and individuals can access a state-of-the-art online training program suited for all levels of expertise.