Texture Processing Technology for Injection Molds
The texture processing technology for injection molds involves etching or treating the mold surface to create specific patterns, resulting in injection-molded products with the desired appearance and functional characteristics. This technique is commonly used to enhance the product's aesthetics, tactile feel, and anti-slip properties, while also concealing surface defects.
1. Definition and Functions of Texture Processing
Texture processing creates specific patterns on the mold cavity surface, transferring the texture onto the surface of injection-molded products.
Main Functions:
Aesthetics: Enhances the product's visual appeal and offers diverse design options.
Functionality: Improves surface anti-slip properties, wear resistance, and tactile feel.
Defect Concealment: Masks surface imperfections such as weld lines and sink marks.
Reduced Light Reflection: Lowers surface gloss to minimize glare.
2. Methods of Texture Processing
(1) Chemical Etching (Etching Process)
Principle: Uses chemical etchants (acidic or alkaline solutions) to corrode the mold surface, creating the desired texture.
Process Steps:
Apply a protective coating on areas not requiring etching.
Immerse the mold in a chemical etchant, controlling the etching time based on pattern depth.
Remove the protective coating and inspect the texture effect.
Advantages:
Suitable for complex textures and large-area processing.
Relatively low cost.
Applications:
Commonly used for plastic casings, automotive interiors, etc.
(2) Laser Engraving
Principle: Uses a laser beam to precisely ablate the mold surface, forming micron-level textures.
Advantages:
High Precision: Ideal for intricate gradient textures and customized designs.
Strong Controllability: Depth and distribution are precise, ensuring uniform surface effects.
Eco-Friendly: No chemical usage.
Applications:
High-end electronic product casings, automotive trim, etc.
(3) Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM Texturing)
Principle: Utilizes electrical discharge machining to create fine dot- or line-like textures on the mold surface.
Advantages:
Suitable for small areas requiring specialized textures.
(4) Mechanical Processing
Method: Uses tools such as cutters, grinding wheels, or sandblasting equipment to mechanically treat the mold surface, forming textures.
Advantages:
Suitable for simple textures and small-area processing.
3. Texture Depth and Surface Roughness
Typical Texture Depth: 0.02-0.2 mm, determined based on design and product requirements.
Surface Roughness (Ra): Corresponds to texture depth, typically ranging from Ra 0.8-3.2 μm.
