best practices
How to Optimize Pack & Hold Times for Hot-Runner & Valve-Gated Molds
Applying a scientific method to what is typically a trial-and-error process. Part 2 of 2.
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Optimizing Pack & Hold Times for Hot-Runner & Valve-Gated Molds
Using scientific procedures will help you put an end to all that time-consuming trial and error. Part 1 of 2.
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The Importance of Melt & Mold Temperature
Molders should realize how significantly process conditions can influence the final properties of the part.
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Extruder Alignment: Important, but Only Half the Equation
The other half? Aligning and supporting downstream equipment. Here are best practices.
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Warpage Waylaid Via Simulation
Designed to form a component that would hold headlights in place, the mold was intended to produce a front-end automobile bracket. Instead of parts however, the tool’s real output was problems.
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Understanding Flow Fronts and Defects
Flow-front behavior and corrections are key to solving many common molding problems —what is your process’s flow trying to tell you about your part?
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Hot Runners: A View from the Bottom Up
Addressing hot-runner benefits, improvements, and everyday issues from the perspective of decades of experience with probably every brand on the market. Part 1 of 2.
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Melt Preparation Part 1: Melt Temperature Optimization
A homogenous melt is required for consistent part quality, but achieving it requires balancing a number of factors, including barrel usage and temperature as well as screw speed, backpressure and residence time. Learn how to prepare your melt for molding success in this two-part series.
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How to Set Barrel Zone Temps in Injection Molding
Start by picking a target melt temperature, and double-check data sheets for the resin supplier’s recommendations. Now for the rest...
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The Strain Rate Effect
The rate of loading for a plastic material is a key component of how we perceive its performance.
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