What factors affect mold opening on an injection molding machine?

I. Mold Speed ​​and Travel Distance
The distance the mold travels during the opening and ejection of the part should be minimized to avoid wasting travel time. Of course, the mold movement must be sufficient to allow the part to smoothly exit the mold before it closes again. Therefore, the shorter the travel distance required for part ejection, the less time it takes. When the injection molding machine is in good condition, the transition from high-speed opening to low-speed ejection is quite smooth.
The equipment requires some maintenance to accommodate these speed changes, but these costs are worth many times over in terms of reduced molding time and time savings. To achieve minimal mold travel time, adjust the deceleration limit switch so that the mold does not excessively contact or damage the part during ejection, and optimize the high-speed portion of the stroke.

II. Proper Periodic Maintenance
Proper periodic maintenance ensures that this deceleration is repeated each time.
The time for generating clamping pressure is another delay in the overall mold opening time. This time can be affected by mechanical wear and hydraulic valve failure; therefore, periodic mechanical maintenance can maintain good operating condition.

Precautions:

• Shorten the mold opening stroke to the minimum necessary to allow parts and runners to detach;

• Eliminate any factors that make ejection difficult, such as burrs around the ejector pins;

• Shorten the stroke to the minimum necessary;

• Use the fastest possible mold opening and closing speeds, while appropriately stopping and closing slowly to prevent mold damage;

• Look for any delays in mold closing and clamping pressure, as these indicate mechanical or hydraulic valve malfunctions;

• Excessive insert movement in the mold also increases mold opening time. A little product design consideration (reducing undercuts) can often automate or semi-automate the ejection process;

• If this delay is caused by mold wear, the mold should be repaired to reduce the delay;

Developing good injection molding machine operating habits is highly beneficial for improving machine life and production safety.