Manifold Systems

[Annette Bordeaux]

Hot runner injection molding is a specialized technique that uses heated runners to keep the plastic material molten as it flows from the nozzle to the mold cavity. This eliminates the need for cold runners, which can result in material waste and increased cycle times.

Key Advantages of Hot Runner Molding:

Reduced Material Waste: By preventing plastic from solidifying in the runner system, hot runner molding minimizes material waste.
Improved Cycle Times: Shorter cycle times can lead to increased production efficiency and lower costs.
Better Part Quality: Hot runner molding can improve part quality by reducing defects such as flash, sink marks, and air pockets.
Complex Part Geometries: It's well-suited for producing parts with intricate details and thin walls.
How Hot Runner Molding Works:

Heated Runner System: The runner system is heated to maintain the plastic material in a molten state.
Material Injection: Molten plastic is injected into the heated runner system.
Mold Filling: The plastic flows through the runner system to the mold cavity, filling it completely.
Cooling and Ejection: The part cools in the mold and is ejected once solidified.
Types of Hot Runner Systems:

Manifold Systems: A manifold is used to distribute the molten plastic to multiple cavities.
Individual Runner Systems: Each cavity has its own heated runner, providing more control over flow and temperature.
Pin-Point Systems: These systems use heated pins to deliver the plastic directly to the mold cavity, minimizing material waste.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hot Runner System:

Part Geometry: The complexity and size of the part will influence the choice of hot runner system.
Production Volume: Higher production volumes may justify the investment in a hot runner system.
Material Properties: The properties of the plastic material, such as viscosity and flow characteristics, will affect the design of the hot runner system.
Cost: Hot runner tooling can be more expensive than traditional cold runner tooling, but the long-term benefits can outweigh the initial investment.