Injection molding hanging template and nameplate
The injection molding platen is a key component for lifting and handling molds. Its structural design must provide sufficient strength and rigidity to prevent deformation or breakage during the lifting process. Platens are typically made of 45# steel or Q235 steel plate. The thickness is determined by the mold weight: for molds weighing less than 5 tons, the platen thickness is 16-20mm; for molds weighing 5-10 tons, the platen thickness is 20-25mm; for molds weighing 10 tons or more, the platen thickness is 25-30mm. High-strength bolts (such as 8.8-grade hexagon socket head cap bolts) are used to connect the platen to the mold base. The bolt diameter is calculated based on the mold weight using the following formula: Bolt diameter (mm) = (Mold weight (kg) × 10)^(1/3) × 0.8. For example, for a 10-ton mold (10,000 kg), the bolt diameter is ≈ (100,000)^(1/3) × 0.8, which is ≈ 46 × 0.8, which is ≈ 37mm. M36 bolts should be used, with at least four bolts symmetrically distributed. The diameter of the lifting hole on the hanging template must be 2-4mm larger than the diameter of the eyebolt, and the distance between the edge of the lifting hole and the edge of the plate must be no less than 1.5 times the diameter of the lifting hole to prevent edge tearing during lifting. For example, when the diameter of the lifting hole is 40mm, the edge distance should be no less than 60mm.
The location and number of injection molding hanging platens should be determined based on the mold’s center of gravity to ensure the mold remains level during lifting and avoid potential safety hazards caused by tilting. For small and medium-sized molds (weighing under 5 tons), one hanging platen is typically installed at each end of the mold’s upper mold base, symmetrically distributed on either side of the center of gravity. For large molds or molds with an offset center of gravity, the number of hanging platens should be increased, for example, adding one or two more on the offset side. The mold can be balanced by adjusting the hanging point positions. The hanging platens should be installed close to the mold’s center of gravity, with the line connecting the hanging points passing through a plumb line perpendicular to the center of gravity. The center of gravity can be determined by calculation or actual weighing. For example, if a mold is 2000mm long and 1000mm wide, with its center of gravity located 800mm from the front and at the center of the width, the hanging platens should be installed 700mm and 1300mm from the front to ensure a level position during lifting. In addition, the hanging template needs to fit tightly against the mold base plate. After installation, check the gap with a feeler gauge. The maximum gap should not exceed 0.1mm. If necessary, perform milling to ensure flatness and prevent deformation of the base plate due to uneven force during lifting.
Injection molding nameplates are crucial components for identifying mold information. Their content must be complete and clear to facilitate mold management and traceability. Basic information should include: mold number, part name and code, mold weight, dimensions (length × width × height), manufacturing date, manufacturer, and compatible injection molding machine models. For example, a mold nameplate might read: “Mold Number: M2023056; Part Name: Automotive Instrument Cover (P/N: 123456); Mold Weight: 8500kg; Dimensions: 1800 × 1200 × 900mm; Manufacturing Date: May 2023; Manufacturer: XX Mold Factory; Compatible Machines: Clamping Force 1000 tons.” The nameplate must be made of a wear- and corrosion-resistant material. Stainless steel (304 grade) or anodized aluminum with a thickness of 1-2mm is commonly used. The text should be laser engraved or etched to ensure legibility and resistance to fading. The engraving depth should be at least 0.1mm, and the text height should be at least 5mm for easy identification.
The injection molding nameplate’s mounting location and method must be easily visible and secure. It’s typically mounted on a non-working surface of the mold (such as the side or front face of the upper mold base) to avoid interference with the injection molding machine or other equipment. The mounting location should be clearly visible during both hoisting and placement, and 1.2-1.5 meters above the ground (when placed vertically) for easy reading by operators. Nameplates can be secured with screws or adhesives. Screws are suitable for heavy molds and use at least two M3-M4 stainless steel screws, arranged symmetrically, with the screw heads below the nameplate surface. Adhesives use high-strength industrial tape (such as 3M tape) and are suitable for lightweight molds. Before applying, clean the mold surface to ensure it’s free of oil and dust. After applying, apply a pressure of at least 50N for one hour to ensure a secure bond. Additionally, avoid protruding structures around the nameplate to prevent damage from impact. For large molds, install a nameplate at each end to facilitate viewing from different directions.
The design of the injection molding hanging plate and nameplate must comply with relevant safety standards and specifications to ensure mold safety and traceability during transportation, installation, and use. The hanging plate design must comply with the “Technical Requirements for Mold Safety” (GB 28241). The lifting hole’s load capacity must be verified. The calculation formula is: Allowable load (kg) = Hole cross-sectional area (mm²) × Material tensile strength (MPa) × 0.6 / 10. For example, for a 45# steel lifting hole (tensile strength 600 MPa) with a diameter of 40 mm (cross-sectional area 1256 mm²), the allowable load is 1256 × 600 × 0.6 / 10, which is approximately 45,216 kg, sufficient to lift a 10-ton mold. The nameplate’s content must comply with the company’s mold management regulations. For export molds, English labeling must also be included to ensure accurate identification by international customers. In addition, the hanging template and nameplate must be rust-proofed. The hanging template can be bluing or galvanized. Stainless steel nameplates can be used directly, while aluminum plates require anodizing to ensure a service life of at least five years in a humid workshop environment. Regularly check the tightness of the hanging template bolts and the integrity of the nameplate. Repair any looseness or damage promptly to avoid safety accidents and information loss.
