Page 68 - Plastics News October 2024

TECHNOLOGY NEWS

es. costs. This issues could be leaks or clog-
gings.
♦ From a technological standpoint, hot run-

ner systems offer several significant bene- ♦ Higher initial cost of the system and the al-
fits. They allow for automated processes, as ready mentioned maintenance can also lead
runners do not need to be demolded. This to higher operational costs. The defects can
is especially advantageous in high-volume include leakage, heater failure, or wear from
production where efficiency is critical. The filled materials .
gating system can be positioned optimally
Hot Runner Innovation Milestones and Trends
for better flow control, reducing defects and
improving the quality of molded parts. ♦ HASCO’s Streamrunner technology is a 3D-

♦ Another benefit is the ability to minimize printed hot runner system that revolution-
izes injection molding by optimizing melt
pressure losses, as hot runners allow larger
flow with free-form channels. This additive
runner diameters, facilitating better material
flow. Technologies like valve gate nozzles
provide even more precision by controlling
the flow of material into individual cavities,
which enables advanced techniques like
cascade gating. Cascade gating allows the
material to flow smoothly through multiple
nozzles, reducing pressure/clamping force
manufacturing approach enables a highly
demand, eliminating flow lines and improv-
customized and efficient runner layout, re-
ing part aesthetics.
ducing pressure loss, improving part quality,
♦ Hot runner systems also enable longer hold- and lowering cycle times. The main advan-
ing pressures, reducing shrinkage and war- tages include minimal wear due to stream-
page in parts. This improves the dimensional lined flow paths, enhanced cooling, and the
accuracy and strength of the molded parts. ability to handle complex geometries.

Disadvantages ♦ INCOE in partnership with Cavity Eye, inte-
grate sensor technology into their Direct-Flo
♦ Thermal degradation of sensitive materials
hot runner systems. These sensors measure
can occur if they stay in the heated manifold
variables such as temperature and pressure
for too long (residence time). This can be a
within the hot runner or tool, providing pre-
significant problem for materials with narrow
cise data for improved process control. The
processing windows. Precise temperature
data is logged, visualized through software,
control is critical, as inconsistent tempera-
and can trigger alarms if deviations occur,
tures can lead to non-uniform filling and part
ensuring consistent quality and operational
defects.
efficiency. The system enhances Industry
♦ The complexity of the equipment requires 4.0 compatibility, allowing for networked

extensive maintenance to prevent issues solutions and data mining, leading to better
which can interrupt production and increase decision-making and reduced downtime.

68 PLASTICS NEWS October 2024