The art of flawless injection mould cleaning
In the world of industry, the moulding process is one of the most important processes in the production chain, although it is sometimes a process that goes unnoticed.
At IBERKLEEN, We specialise in offering advanced solutions for cleaning injection moulds.
With our parts washers and ultrasonics, we guarantee thorough and effective cleaning that ensures the quality and precision of injection moulds.
If you are in search of detailed information on how to clean injection mouldsyou have come to the right place.
This article will guide you through the cleaning of moulds, addressing different types of moulds and revealing the key role that ultrasonic and spray cleaning machines play in this process, being some of the most innovative technologies on the market.
How to clean injection moulds
What is the injection moulding industry?
The plastics injection moulding industry, a driving force in manufacturing, is faced with cleaning challenges which are deployed on two critical fronts, both centred on the injection mould.
On the one hand, we have the delicate cleaning of textured and finished areasThe mould is a vital part of the mould, the results of which have a direct impact on the quality of the injected parts.
On the other hand, it emerges the challenge of the cooling circuitThe cooling system is an essential part of ensuring that all moulded parts are adequately cooled, especially in critical areas of the mould.
What is an injection mould?
The Injection Mould is constituted as a set of two parts, one with negative and one with positive format (male/female).
Its function is crucial in the plastic injection moulding process, where, by closing and allowing the injection of a molten polymer, it produces a final part with millimetre precision, fitting perfectly between the two mould plates.
These moulds, generally made of steel, are notable for their considerable weight and geometric complexity. The key to their design lies in their ability to reproduce intricate shapes, with minimal holes and corners of complicated configuration.
The importance of effective cleaning of Injection Moulds
Injection moulds are crucial components in the manufacture of plastic and metal products.
Residues and contaminants can affect the accuracy and quality of the final products, as well as cause premature wear on the moulds.
At IBERKLEENWe offer cleaning solutions that ensure the complete removal of residues, improving the service life and performance of the moulds.
Injection mould cleaning solutions
Ultrasonic cleaning of injection moulds
Our ultrasonic washers use high frequency waves to generate cavitations in the cleaning liquid.
These cavitations effectively remove adhering contaminants on complex surfaces without damaging the moulds, reaching all surfaces and recesses.
The advantages of ultrasonic mould cleaning:
- Deep and comprehensive cleaning.
- Preservation of the integrity of the mould.
- Efficiency in the disposal of difficult waste.
- Saving time and resources.
Spray cleaning of injection moulds
We also offer parts washers with spray systems that guarantee uniform and thorough cleaning.
There are models that incorporate a manual lance for detailed high-pressure cleaning of gaps and parts that may be dirtier.
Cleaning injection moulds with dry ice
It is a method that has been used in recent times, but it requires a lot of investment.
It also has the disadvantage of needing a dry ice source and a powerful compressor.
Operationally, it is not something that companies consider as an investment to solve the cleaning of their moulds.
Laser cleaning of injection moulds
Recently many machines are coming onto the market offering laser cleaning of metal surfaces.
There are machines that can do the job, but a very large investment is needed. These pulsed laser machines can clean the mould, but the investment often exceeds 100,000 euros.
On the other hand, there are cheaper laser machines, where the laser source is not pulsed, use cutting lasers for cleaning and may damage the surface of the mould.
Benefits of using our injection mould washers
Consistent Quality: Our machines ensure thorough cleaning while maintaining the quality and precision of the final products.
Downtime Reduction: Fast and efficient cleaning reduces downtime, increasing productivity.
Cost Savings: The energy efficiency and durability of our machines contribute to lower operating costs in the long run.
Versatility: We offer both ultrasonic and spray cleaning solutions, adaptable to various industrial needs.
Personalisation: We adapt our machines to the specific needs of each customer, offering customised solutions for cleaning moulds of different sizes and configurations.
Our injection mould cleaning solutions are an investment in the operational excellence and durability of your products.
Ultrasonic mould cleaning demonstration video
We are experts in the cleaning of injection moulds by ultrasound, which is why we adapt to the type of mould, the quantity to be cleaned and the parameters required to manufacture «made to measure».»
In the case of the video, we show an automated industrial system, designed for demanding, highly technical cleaning and guaranteeing uniformity and repeatability.
In the custom-designed video machine, the machine is loaded by crane into a rack designed for the customer's moulds.
The movements and immersion are automated and ultrasonic cleaning is carried out over the entire surface.
The multi-stage ultrasonic system was designed and manufactured in the following ways with the following key features:
- 2 process stages
- ultrasonic cleaning
- active rinsing
- uniform and repeatable process
- design for 2 simultaneous moulds
- capacity up to 1,000 kg
A demanding cleaning solution for a very demanding sector.
Use cases and testimonials
Numerous leading companies in the injection moulding industry have adopted our injection mould cleaning solutionsreporting significant improvements in their production processes. Here we share some of their experiences:
"Our operations have improved considerably since we started using IBERKLEEN ultrasonic machines. The quality of our products is superior and cleaning times have been reduced." - Customer in the plastics industry.
"IBERKLEEN's customised solutions have enabled us to keep our injection moulds in perfect condition, ensuring precision and durability in our production.." - Customer in the metal injection moulding industry.
Some of the customers who work with our teams on a daily basis
Contact us for customised solutions
If you would like more information about our injection mould washing machines or need a customised solution or trial, please contact us via the contact form on our website, by email, Whatsapp or landline.
Our team of experts is ready to help you find the best solution for your specific needs.