Proper lubrication of leader pins, slides, gates and ejector pins is a necessity in order for molds to last and perform effectively and efficiently. However, a two-pronged approach can be implemented to optimize part quality while simultaneously enhancing pin performance.
Slide recommends a two-lubricant approach for optimal pin performance and part quality. Specifically, one lubricant should be applied to 80% of the back of the pin, and another lubricant should be used on the remaining 20% on the front of the pin.
The back 80% of the pin requires a lubricant that can withstand rapid temperature fluctuations, resist running or migration, and provide excellent load-bearing capabilities.
The front 20% of the pin is especially critical because it comes into contact with the molded part. This area demands a lubricant that will not cause marking, staining, or bleed-out that could compromise part quality.
Below are the lubricants we recommend for effectively addressing the distinct requirements of the front and back sections of the pins.
On the back of the pin, use Super Grease or UltraHeat Grease. These products do not contain chlorinated solvents, are registered as NSF-H1, and are NLGI #2 high temperature range greases that are colorless and odorless with excellent dielectric strength. Super Grease and UltraHeat Grease have no silicones and will not bleed-out. With operating temperatures ranging from -45°F to +650°F, Super Grease and UltraHeat Grease will not separate, run or bleed-out, and have exceptional load-bearing properties. Thixotropic properties provide excellent mechanical stability when sudden temperature changes occur. A clear, clean, non-yellowing grease, Super Grease and UltraHeat Grease are ideal for injection molds, mold assemblies, leader pin assemblies, slides/gates, and especially medical and food grade plastic parts. They also repel water and prevent corrosion. Super Grease and UltraHeat Grease can also be sprayed onto the back portion/stripper plate area during production runs to extend the mold’s service life.
On the front of the pin, use Heavy-Duty 10% Mold Release. Heavy-Duty 10% Mold Release does NOT contain chlorinated solvents, and is a non-silicone, fully paintable, food-approved lubricant, with a maximum operating temperature of 450°F. An ideal lubricant for the front half of ejector pins (pins in forward position), this almost dry lubricant minimizes the possibility of leaching out onto molded parts. Heavy-Duty 10% Mold Release can be used on plastics, rubber, waxes, glass-filled nylon, and similar materials.
Heavy-Duty 10% Mold Release can be reapplied to the molding surface with the ejectors out in a manual position to re-lubricate the ejector areas without damaging the mold surface or affecting production parts. As an added bonus Heavy-Duty 10% Mold Release will also work as a mold release to help you start back up.
More Information:
To help you choose the right product for your application, visit www.plastixs.com/products/slide-products.
For technical assistance, call the SLIDE experts at Plastixs at 508-842-1606, or email us at sales@plastixs.com.