ABSTRACT
A thermoplastic injection molding machine is an excellent example of the troubleshooter's need for a thorough understanding of the hydraulic circuit, its components, and the functional interrelationships of the various elements of a complete molding cycle. (Courtesy of Van Dorn Demag Corporation.)
The molding cycle consists of: 1) closing the mold, 2) injecting a prepared charge of plasticized material into the mold, 3) providing a brief time for the molded part to cure, 4) preparing the next charge of plasticized material, and 5) opening the mold and ejecting the finished part. The combining of all of the control elements leading to a quality finished part requires consistent and precise use of force and motion.
