Injection Molding: The most common method used for TPU molding is injection molding. TPU pellets or granules are melted and injected into a mold cavity under high pressure. The mold determines the final shape and size of the TPU product.
Mold Design: The mold for TPU molding is typically made from steel or aluminum and is precision-machined to create the desired product. It includes features such as runners, gates, and cooling channels. The design of the mold affects the part's quality, dimensional accuracy, and cycle time.
Heating and Cooling: TPU molding machines have heating systems to melt the TPU material and maintain it at the proper temperature for injection. Cooling systems, such as water channels, help solidify the TPU quickly and efficiently.
Pressure and Clamping: TPU molding machines apply high hydraulic pressure to inject the molten TPU into the mold cavity. The clamping unit ensures that the mold remains closed during the injection and cooling processes.
Control Systems: TPU molding machines are equipped with control systems to regulate the injection parameters, such as temperature, pressure, injection speed, and cooling time. These controls allow for precise and consistent molding results.