Types of Sliders and Inserts in Overmolding Injection Molds
Sliders and inserts are essential components in over-molding injection molds, enabling the formation of complex product structures and ensuring product quality. They play critical roles in parting, molding, and core-pulling within the mold.
1. Types of Sliders
Sliders are mold components that move linearly along guide pins, primarily used to mold plastic parts with side holes, side recesses, or internal cavities. Based on their structure and function, sliders can be categorized as follows:
Side Sliders
Structure: Move along the side walls of the mold.
Function: Used for molding side holes, grooves, and other features on the side walls of plastic parts.
Top Sliders
Structure: Move perpendicular to the mold’s parting surface.
Function: Used for forming protrusions, threads, or similar features on plastic parts.
Angled Sliders
Structure: Move diagonally, combining the functions of side and top sliders.
Function: Designed for molding plastic parts with complex shapes.
Combination Sliders
Structure: Consists of multiple sliders working together to perform complex movements.
Function: Suitable for molding plastic parts with multiple side holes or recesses.
2. Types of Inserts
Inserts are components embedded in the mold cavity or core, mainly used for forming special shapes or functionalities on plastic parts. Depending on their material and function, inserts can be classified into the following types:
Guiding Inserts
Material: Typically made of hard alloys or wear-resistant steel.
Function: Guide the flow direction of the plastic and ensure the dimensional accuracy of the product.
Cooling Inserts
Material: Made of copper or aluminum alloy.
Function: Accelerate cooling of the plastic part and improve product quality.
Note: Cooling inserts are often connected to cooling water channels.
Electrode Inserts
Material: Made of copper or graphite.
Function: Used for electroplating or chemical plating to enhance the surface quality of the product.
Special-Function Inserts
Material: Selected based on specific requirements.
Function: Includes thread inserts, spring inserts, and others designed for specific functionalities.
Applications of Sliders and Inserts in Overmolding Injection Molds
In over-molding injection molds, sliders and inserts are often used for the following purposes:
Molding Overmolded Areas
Sliders and inserts work together to achieve precise alignment and molding of soft and hard materials.
Ensuring Dimensional Accuracy
Guiding inserts effectively control the dimensions and shapes of plastic parts.
Improving Surface Quality
Cooling and electrode inserts enhance the surface finish of the product.
Enabling Complex Structures
Combination sliders and inserts enable the creation of various intricate plastic part structures.
