Valve Gate Nozzle, Stack Mold Innovations Address Thin-Wall Injection Molding

Oerlikon HRSflow launches the new Xp series of valve gate nozzles for hot runner systems, engineered for thin-wall packaging applications. For similar applications, Oerlikon has also developed a new stack mold solution.

The Xp series is designed to withstand high filling pressures, up to 2,200 bar, in addition to fast injection and cycle times in a stable process, with high part-to-part weight consistency. Ultimately, it is engineered to significantly improve the overall aesthetic of finished parts. Accurate thermal control of the gate enables optimal injection quality, even with in-mold labeling (IML)-decorated products, according to the company. This solution can process PCR compounds and prevents damage caused by foreign particles present in the resin and liquefy additives that tamper with regular valve gate operations.

Moreover, Oerlikon HRSflow presents a patent-pending solution for stack systems in thin-wall injection molding. Assembly and disassembly operations are said to be simplified, due to a plug-and-play installation within the compact system. Moreover, maintenance operations are reduced and automatized. This design ensures optimal sealing between cylinders and manifolds, and cylinders and nozzles, the company contends. The result is a user-friendly and highly efficient solution without compromising quality of the molded parts.

The hot runner system, which enables the use of smaller injection molding machines, fits a maximum plate thickness of 240 mm, ensuring symmetrical systems with up to 8+8 drops to be supplied, with a minimum pitch between cavities of 65 mm and between nozzle and inlet of 120 mm.