3 Tips for Calculating Press Size | Plastic Injection Mold

When working with plastic injection molds, accurately calculating the necessary press size is crucial for successful molding operations. Here are three essential tips to help you determine the right press size for your project:

Understand the Importance of Tonnage

Tonnage, or clamping force, is the amount of pressure required to keep the mold closed during injection. It is vital to ensure that the selected press can provide sufficient tonnage to avoid defects such as flashing and incomplete fills. For instance, using a 400 t injection moulding machine provides the needed force for larger and more complex molds.

Calculate the Projected Area

The projected area is the surface area of the part that is being molded, seen from the parting line direction. This area helps in determining the required clamping force. The formula to calculate the clamping force is:

Clamping Force (tons) = Projected Area (sq. inches) × Injection Pressure (tons/sq. inch)

It's important to use the correct injection pressure based on the material being molded.

Select the Right Injection Machine for Smaller Projects

For smaller projects, the choice of machine should correlate with the project's scale. An air pressure small vertical injection molding machine is often suitable for smaller moldings, providing adequate force and efficiency without overestimating the necessary size.

Consider Machine Design

The design of the injection machine significantly impacts its performance. For example, a Vertical Injection Molding Machine can offer better precision and consistency, making it an excellent choice for various applications.

Connecting with industry experts and influencers can provide further insights into optimizing press size calculations. Their expertise and shared experiences are invaluable for achieving efficient and high-quality molding results.