Injection Molding Machine Specifications: What to Look For When Choosing the Right Equipment

2024-07-10 16:40:12

Selecting the right plastic injection molding machine is crucial for manufacturers aiming for efficiency and high-quality output. By understanding the key parameters of each injection molding machine, like injection pressure, clamping force, and cycle time, you can make an informed decision.

 

 

What is Injection Molding Machine Specification?

The specifications of injection molding machines are vital as they dictate the machine's capabilities and appropriateness for specific applications. These specifications include parameters related to the injection unit, clamping unit, power unit, and others. Each parameter has significance and impact, playing a critical role in the overall performance and efficiency of the machine.

 

 

Key Specifications of Injection Molding Machine

Here’s a detailed overview of the most important specifications:

 

1. Injection Unit Specifications

The injection unit controls the process of injecting molten injection molding material into the mold. Important parameters are:

The Barrel
Item Unit Definition Importance
Screw Dimension mm The diameter of the injection screw. This determines the volume of material that can be processed. Larger screws can process more material.
Injection Pressure kg/cm² The pressure/force of the melt acting on the head of the screw during injection molding. It is used to overcome the resistance to plastic flow through the nozzle, runner, gate, and mold cavity, and to compact the cavity pressure.

Engineering plastics need higher injection pressure due to their higher viscosity, complex structures, and higher melting points, which make them more resistant to flow. Similarly, thin-walled parts require higher pressure to overcome the increased resistance in narrow flow paths, ensuring complete mold filling and maintaining part integrity.
Shot Volume cm³ The total volume of molten plastic injected into the mold during each injection cycle of the injection molding process. This determines the maximum shot weight.

For safety and optimal performance, the shot volume should be between 60% and 80% of the injection molding machine's maximum injection capacity.
Shot Weight (PS) g or oz The total amount of molten plastic, measured in weight (usually grams or ounces), injected into the mold during each injection cycle in the injection molding process. Shot Weight=Shot Volume*Melt Density of Raw Material

For safety and optimal performance, the shot weight should be between 60% and 80% of the injection molding machine's maximum injection capacity.
Injection Speed mm/sec The velocity at which the screw or plunger moves to inject the molten plastic into the mold cavity per second.

It focuses on the movement of the injection mechanism.		 This ensures that the mold cavity is completely filled, preventing defects such as incomplete filling or flashing, and affecting cycle time and final product quality.
Injection Rate cm³/sec The volume of molten plastic delivered into the mold cavity per second.

It focuses on the amount of material being injected.		 Injection Rate=Shot Volume/Injection Time

Influences volume of material injected control and cycle efficiency.

 

2. Clamping Unit Specifications

The clamping unit's primary function is to hold the mold securely during the injection and cooling process. Key parameters include:

Tie Bar Distance
Item Unit Definition Importance
Clamping Force tons The force applied by the clamping unit to keep the mold closed during the injection and cooling phases of the molding cycle. Essential for counteracting the pressure exerted by the molten plastic during injection into the mold, preventing the mold from opening and ensuring that the molded part maintains its desired shape and dimensions.
Tie Bar Distance (HxV) mm The horizontal and vertical distance between the tie bars. Determines the maximum mold size that machine can be accommodated.
Mold Platen (HxV) mm The height and width of the mold platen, which holds the mold. Affects the size of the mold that can be installed. Larger platens can support bigger molds.
Total Daylight Stroke
(or called Opening Stroke)		 mm The maximum distance between the mold halves when fully open, which allow for finished part ejection and mold maintenance. Sufficient stroke length is necessary for easy removal of the molded part.

For better results, the opening stroke should be greater than the sum of the sprue length and twice the height of the plastic product.
Mold Thickness mm The minimum and maximum mold thickness that the machine can accommodate. Ensures compatibility with different mold sizes.
Ejector Stroke mm The distance the ejector pins move to push the final product out of the mold. Adequate stroke length ensures parts are smooth and fully ejected without damage.
Mold Hole mm The mold's positioning ring cooperates with the injection machine's fixed ring, making it easier to install the mold on the machine table. The mold hole is the diameter of the machine's fixed ring. Essential for proper mold alignment and installation.

 

3. Power Unit and Other Specifications

The power unit and others control the machine's movements and functions, impacting your injection machine's operational cost and environmental footprint.

Item Unit Definition Importance
Pump Motors
or Servo Motors		 HP
kW		 The power and type of motor used in the machine. Influences the precision and efficiency of machine operations, affecting overall performance.
Number of Heating Zones zones The number of independently controlled heating zones. Allows for precise temperature control, critical for processing different types of plastics.
Total Heating Wattage kW The total power consumed by the heating elements. Affects energy efficiency and operational costs.
System Pressure kg/cm² The operating pressure of the hydraulic system. Affects the machine's force and ensures the reliable operation of the machine during molding.
Oil Capacity L The volume of hydraulic oil the machine holds. Sufficient capacity is necessary for smooth and efficient hydraulic operations.
Machine Dimension (LxWxH) m The overall dimensions of the machine. Important for planning floor space and ensuring the machine fits within the production area.
Machine Weight tons The total weight of the machine. Influences transportation and installation requirements.

 

 

Why Injection Molding Machine Specification Matter?

The specification defines how well a machine can perform its intended functions and how efficiently it operates. Here’s why these specifications matter:

  1. Performance and Capability
    • Machine Capacity: Specifications like clamping force, injection capacity, and shot size determine the maximum size and complexity of the parts that can be produced. Understanding these specifications helps you select a machine that meets your production needs.
    • Precision and Accuracy: Details such as the machine’s tolerance, control systems, and motor specifications influence the precision and accuracy of the molded parts. Accurate specifications ensure that parts meet the required dimensions and quality standards.
  2. Efficiency and Cost
    • Energy Efficiency: Specifications for motor power, hydraulic systems, and energy consumption impact the overall operational cost. Efficient machines use less energy and can lower production costs.
    • Production Speed: Parameters such as injection speed and cycle time affect how quickly parts are produced. Faster cycle times can increase overall production efficiency and reduce lead times.
  3. Compatibility and Integration
    • Mold Compatibility: Specifications help determine if a machine can accommodate the molds you plan to use. This includes mold size, weight, and type (e.g., multi-cavity or insert molds).
    • Auxiliary Equipment: Understanding the machine’s specifications allows for proper integration with other equipment, such as robots, conveyors, and cooling systems, ensuring a seamless production of the injection molding process.
  4. Safety and Reliability
    • Operational Safety: Proper specifications ensure that the machine operates within its designed limits, reducing the risk of accidents and equipment failure. Safety features and emergency stops are also part of these specifications.
    • Maintenance and Longevity: Machines with well-defined specifications are less likely to experience unexpected breakdowns. Regular maintenance can be planned according to the machine’s operational parameters, increasing longevity.
  5. Investment and ROI
    • Cost-Benefit Analysis: Understanding the specifications helps evaluate the machine's cost-effectiveness. It also allows for comparing different models and manufacturers to ensure the best investment.
    • Future-Proofing: Choosing a machine with the right specifications can accommodate future production needs or technological changes, providing better long-term value.

 

 

Injection Molding Machine Specification Conclusion

Injection molding machine specifications are crucial for selecting the machine that is appropriate for your production needs. By comprehensively understanding the injection, hydraulic, clamping, power unit, and others' specifications, you can ensure that you choose a machine that meets your specific requirements, leading to efficient and cost-effective manufacturing. 

 

Reputation Machine Manufacturer - Huarong

When investing in injection machines, in addition to the technical specifications, it is also important to consider the manufacturer's reputation and support when purchasing. As an experienced injection molding machine manufacturer, Huarong is here to help you find the perfect solution for your manufacturing requirements.

 

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