Mold inserts are widely used in injection mold manufacturing, primarily in front molds, back molds, sliders, and lifters. So why are inserts needed in injection mold manufacturing, and what is their purpose? Let's take a closer look.
1. Saving Materials in Injection Mold Manufacturing
As we all know, injection molds use relatively regular blocks of steel with fixed shapes to hold the material. However, the material of the front and back molds is determined by the Z-height. Whether in the front or back mold, if one area is higher than another, inserts can be made to lower the mold height.
2. Convenient Mold Modification
Regions of the injection mold that are frequently modified can be removed and made into inserts. Later, when changing molds, only the inserts need to be replaced. You can even make multiple inserts and swap them out when opening the mold, making mold modifications easier.
3. Facilitating Mold Venting
Venting of injection molds is crucial. Poor venting can trap air in the mold cavity, especially in relatively deep areas. During injection molding, parts are prone to defects such as bubbles, shrinkage, glue defects, and white or black spots. Therefore, inserts can be added to areas where venting is required, and the clearance between the inserts can be used for venting.
4. Easier Injection Mold Processing
Some deep sections in injection molds are difficult to machine with tools. While EDM can be used, it is slow and inefficient. Therefore, inserts are often used to reduce machining complexity and facilitate venting. Another option is to use deep-section cutouts. While cutting out the sections where cutouts are needed is inconvenient, removing the cutouts in these areas is much easier.
5. Extending the Life of the Injection Mold
Generally speaking, areas where inserts are needed are often vulnerable to damage. Once the inserts are damaged, they can be replaced, extending the life of the mold and saving time and money.
