This explains the WHY, WHAT, HOW and WHERE of mold temperature control.

Why do we need to control the mold temperature?

The mold temperature has significant impact on molding cycle, dimensional accuracy of molded part, and warping of molded part.

If the mold temperature is too cool, the runner and gate will solidify before the resin could completely fill up the cavity. However, if the mold temperature is too hot, the resin will take more time to solidify affecting the molding cycle time. If some portions of the molded part solidify a lot faster than the other portions, chances are warp or deformed molded part –the dimensional accuracy cannot be satisfied.

What are the methods of controlling the mold temperature?

There are 3 methods to control the temperature of the mold. It depends on the temperature range that the mold will be set for production.

1.    Water:    40~90?

2.    Oil:    80~120?

3.    Heater cartridge: 120? and over.

How and where should we apply the mold temperature control?

The purpose is to control the temperature of the cavity and core so keep the cooling line (water hole) close and evenly placed around the molded part. The image below shows the ideal placement of water hole. But this is only a general rule -mold structure, manufacturability, and ease of maintenance are to be considered.