Material Selection for Side Cores in Injection Molds
In injection mold design, material selection for side cores is critical. Side cores undergo frequent movement and direct contact with plastic parts, requiring materials that meet strength and wear resistance demands, while also providing good machinability and high-temperature performance.
Key Factors in Side Core Material Selection
Strength and Hardness
During the demolding process, side cores endure significant mechanical stress. High-strength and high-hardness materials must be used to prevent deformation or wear.
Wear Resistance
Since side cores frequently contact plastic parts and slide along guide rails, material wear resistance is essential to extend the service life of the side core.
Corrosion Resistance
For processing plastic materials containing corrosive additives (e.g., PVC), materials with strong corrosion resistance are necessary.
Toughness and Fatigue Resistance
Side cores are subjected to repetitive loads over extended periods. Therefore, the material must exhibit adequate toughness and excellent fatigue resistance.
Machinability and Heat Treatment Performance
Side cores require precision machining and heat treatment. Materials should have good machinability and retain stable properties after heat treatment.
Heat Treatment Processes for Side Core Materials
To enhance hardness and wear resistance, side core materials often undergo heat treatment. Common heat treatment methods include:
Quenching and Tempering
Improves hardness and strength while enhancing material toughness.
Suitable for steels like SKD61 and H13.
Carburizing
Increases surface hardness while maintaining core toughness.
Effective for materials requiring a hard surface and a durable core.
Nitriding
Forms a high-hardness nitrided layer on the surface, providing excellent wear and corrosion resistance.
Ideal for high-precision molds.
