Know-How
INJECTION MOLDING: How Different Machine Types Handle Fill and Pack/Hold Times
The procedures are different between series and parallel machines. What type do you have? How can you tell? Here’s what you need to know.
Read More
TOOLING: The Tool’s Impact On the Molding Process
Flash, venting, cooling, gating, or sticking problems? Better to fix the tool than distort your process.
Read More
EXTRUSION: How Slow Can You Go?
Larger screws designed for high outputs will generate a variety of problems if run too slowly. Here’s why.
Read More
INJECTION MOLDING: Processing Nylon…and Other Problems
As moisture content in this and other hygroscopic resins varies, so will your viscosity and process. Here’s how to deal with these issues
Read More
MATERIALS: Thermoplastic Urethanes: Why Annealing Makes a Big Difference
Under the right conditions, annealing can drive TPU performance to a greater level than can be achieved at room temperature.
Read More
MATERIALS: The Problems with Single-Point Data
It’s time for material suppliers to take a fresh approach to providing data. Thankfully, things are starting to move in that direction. Part 12 of 12.
Read More
EXTRUSION: Finding the Sweet Spot in Screw Design
The compression ratio of a screw does not provide enough detail on how it will perform. Screw design is a balancing act that takes many variables into account.
Read More
INJECTION MOLDING: Gate Freeze Study: Danger in a Name?
The test actually determines the hold time needed to mold repeatable parts, and it should be done regardless of whether the gate freezes or not.
Read More
MATERIALS:The Problems with Single-Point Data
This real-world scenario explains why molders and their customers need to ‘think in terms of graphs’ and gather as much data as possible before selecting a material for an application. Part 11.
Read More
INJECTION MOLDING: Properly Placing & Cooling Insulator Plates
Thermal-energy management from the mold to the platens is critical for making consistent parts.
Read More