processing tips
Cycle Time: Science vs. Rules of Thumb, Part 1
What temperature must the polymer reach so the part can be ejected from the mold? Here, more than for any other variable, ‘rules of thumb’ unfortunately prevail.
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Block Cavities and Keep Molding
It goes against conventional wisdom, but molding with blocked cavities can be done while maintaining quality with the help of appropriate in-cavity sensors and process-control software.
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How to Duplicate a Process From Press to Press
To adopt the right approach you must distinguish between machine and plastic parameters.
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The Need for Generalists: Part 4
Solving problems generally requires distinguishing good samples from bad ones. But that can become clumsy when one person runs the test while another analyzes the data.
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Optimize Feeding to Get More Money in Twin-Screw Compounding
Follow these practical examples to improve the feeding efficiency and productivity of your process.
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Use Molding Simulation To Avoid Surface-Finish Defects
It’s not just for successful mold filling and cooling. Simulation can help predict and overcome cosmetic defects in molded parts.
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How to Pick, Remove, and Replace a Nozzle Tip
This small component can cause big problems. Here’s my procedure for picking and replacing yours.
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The Need for Generalists: Part 3
In failure analysis, there is a tendency to gravitate to a few common test protocols. But this approach can result in a mismatch of techniques to the problem.
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15 Things to Know About Servo-Driven Injection Machines
Drive technology for injection molding machines has been continuously evolving, and servo motors have become widely used in a variety of roles. Here’s what molders need to know about today’s servo drives in terms of cost, performance, maintenance, and training.
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How to Collect and Interpret Process Data in Extrusion: Part 2
In this second of three installments, the focus is on the crucial element of melt temperature.
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