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How do l choose an injection molding machine?

2024/03/15 By Topstar

injection molding machine 80

A suitable injection molding machine can ensure the manufacturing business’s success and production efficiency. There are various choices in the market. Choosing an injection molding machine is a critical and essential task. In this blog post, we will share with you what you need to pay attention to and what factors to consider when choosing an injection molding machine to help you make an informed decision that meets your production needs and budget requirements.

Determine your injection molding manufacturing needs

First, you must understand your production needs before choosing, considering factors such as part size, geometry, material properties, and throughput requirements. This will help you determine your injection molding machine’s required clamping force and shot volume capacity to meet your production needs effectively. Usually, the clamping force of the injection molding machine is about 90T-2200T, which needs to be determined according to the products you produce. Next, their material compatibility and processing capabilities are evaluated. The type of thermoplastic or thermoset material required to ensure the machine can process the part must also consider factors such as melt temperature, viscosity, and flow characteristics.

Understand the types of injection molding machines

Injection molding machines are mainly divided into three types. Different types work according to specific production requirements and process changes.

Hydraulic injection molding machine:
Hydraulic molding machines use a hydraulic system to generate the clamping force and injection pressure required for the molding process. They are known for their ruggedness, reliability, and ability to handle high clamping force applications. Hydraulic presses can precisely control injection speed and pressure, making them suitable for various thermoplastic and thermoset materials. It is the most common type, represented by Topstar’s TS Series Toggle Hydraulic Injection Molding Machine.

Hydraulic injection molding machin81

Electric injection molding machine:
Electric injection molding machines use electric servo motors to drive the movement of injection devices, mold clamping mechanisms, and other machine functions. They offer higher accuracy, repeatability, and energy efficiency than hydraulic presses. In addition, the motor is also the first choice for clean room environments and applications requiring high-speed, high-precision molding, such as the medical and food industries. Among Topstar, the TE series electric injection molding machine is representative.

TE series electric injection molding machine

Hybrid injection molding machine:
Hybrid machines combine hydraulic and electric drive systems by taking advantage of the advantages of both technologies. This enables them to use electric servo motors for injection and clamping movements, while hydraulic systems provide auxiliary functions such as ejection operation and core pulling. Hybrid machines improve energy efficiency, shorten cycle times, and reduce noise levels compared to purely hydraulic machines. For example, Topstar’s TEII Series All Electric Injection Molding Machine.

TEII Series All Electric Injection Molding Machine 12

Calculate the clamping force of the injection molding machine

The clamping force ensures that the machine keeps the mold fully closed during the injection and cooling phases of the molding process. The size and complexity of the molded part directly affect the required clamping force. More significant parts with greater surface area require higher clamping troops to withstand the pressure exerted by the injected material and prevent mold deflection or flash formation. Likewise, parts with complex geometries, thin walls, or complex features may require higher clamping forces to maintain mold integrity and dimensional accuracy. Such clamping force is generally around 2200T.

The type and characteristics of the molding material also affect the required clamping force, with materials with higher viscosity or stiffness requiring more force to fill the mold cavity and achieve uniform part quality. Additionally, some materials may exert high internal pressures or stresses during molding, requiring higher clamping forces to counteract these forces and prevent mold from deforming or cracking. Injection pressure and injection rate also affect the force exerted on the mold walls and, thus, the required clamping force. We can determine if they have sufficient clamping force capability using empirical formulas or software simulations to calculate the force needed for a specific application.

clamping force

Consider automation and integration options for your injection molding machine

When choosing, you should also consider the automation and integration options of the injection molding machine. Most of the current injection molding machines can meet the needs of injection molding integration. Integrating them with injection molding robots and auxiliary equipment can achieve automated part handling, reducing manual labor and increasing production efficiency. Automated conveyor systems optimize workflow efficiency, reduce material handling errors, and promote continuous production processes. Injection molding machines with integrated vision systems, sensors, and measurement equipment can monitor key process parameters, detect defects, and verify part dimensions, surface finish, and material properties. Enable real-time feedback and process adjustments to improve product consistency and customer satisfaction.

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Choose the right manufacturer

In addition to the product itself, we should consider the manufacturer, evaluate the range of models and configurations offered, and look for manufacturers that provide various machine options suitable for different production requirements, part sizes, and materials. Topstar can give machines different clamping forces and injection molding conditions as a top manufacturer. At the same time, it can also provide your factory with integrated injection molding solutions to create your automated factory. Regarding after-sales, we can also offer a dedicated customer support team and technical personnel to assist with installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization.

Choose the suitable machine for you

Choosing the suitable injection molding machine requires careful consideration of various factors, including manufacturing requirements, machine specifications, performance and automation and integration options, and manufacturer services. By evaluating these factors and conducting in-depth screening, you can select a machine that meets your production needs and increases efficiency and productivity. If you want to know more about product specifications, you can visit our official website.

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