Plastic injection molding machine undergo a series of critical steps from the time they leave the factory to when they are fully operational in production. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your injection molding machine operates efficiently and safely.
Inspection Before Leaving the Factory
Before shipping, every newly manufactured plastic injection molding machine is subjected to thorough inspections and rigorous testing. Typically, this includes at least 4 hours (or 3,000 cycles) of continuous idle operation to verify its performance. Key tests include:
- Parallelism Testing: Ensuring alignment between moving and fixed templates.
- Action Testing: Verifying manual, semi-automatic, and automatic operations.
- Safety and Noise Checks: Assessing reliability of safety features, operational smoothness, hydraulic system oil temperature changes, and noise levels.
At Daoben Machinery, we recommend these 8 critical inspections:
- Screw and Barrel Assembly Gap Testing: Checking the gap between the screw’s outer surface and the barrel’s inner surface using a feeler gauge.
- Nozzle Alignment: Adjusting the coaxiality of the nozzle with the mold positioning hole.
- Machine Leveling: Ensuring proper horizontal alignment of the plastic injection molding machine.
- Power Circuit Check: Inspecting electrical connections for safety and functionality.
- Hydraulic Oil Refill: Confirming the cleanliness of the oil tank before adding hydraulic oil.
- Cooling System Setup: Ensuring water pressure is between 0.2-0.6 MPa.
- Equipment Cleaning: Cleaning pipes and lines post-installation.
- Lubrication: Applying lubricating oil to all moving parts, including tie rods, guide rods, sliding seats, and rotating components.
Preparations Before Starting the Plastic Injection Molding Machine
Before initiating operations, follow these steps to ensure safety and efficiency:
- Equip employees with personal protective gear.
- Maintain a clean and organized environment around the molding machine.
- Clean the workbench and equipment, especially the guide rails and pull rods.
- Inspect all control switches, buttons, circuits, and handles for damage or malfunctions.
- Verify that all safety devices, such as emergency stops and safety doors, are functional.
- Ensure screws and fasteners are tightened and secure.
- Test the cooling water pipelines for blockages or leaks.
- Check the hopper for foreign objects and close the cover to avoid contamination.
Steps to Start the Injection Molding Machine
Follow these step-by-step instructions for a safe startup:
- Power On: Close the main power switch and check for leaks. Preheat the barrel and mold to the required temperature.
- Cooling System Activation: Open the oil cooler valve and monitor the return oil and water pipes.
- Initial Checks: Manually rotate the screw to identify abnormal sounds or blockages.
- Safety Door Usage: Always use the safety door; avoid operations without it.
- Equipment Covers: Secure all covers and protective shields before operation.
- Team Coordination: Only one operator should handle the machine at a time.
Safe Operation Practices
- Ensure molds and inserts are stable and accurately placed.
- Turn off the motor and retract the injection seat when cleaning or repairing.
- Avoid using metal objects to poke the hopper to prevent equipment damage.
- Stop the machine immediately if you detect abnormal noises, sparks, or oil leaks, and report them.
By following these steps, you can ensure the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your plastic injection molding machine.
Why Proper Setup Matters
Adhering to these practices not only ensures the smooth operation of your plastic injection molding machine but also maximizes productivity and minimizes downtime.
Stay safe and maintain efficiency with these essential guidelines!
