Mould: a heat exchanger
Thermal optimization of thermoplastic injection moulds

Thermoplastic injection molding is a cyclic process used to shape parts made of reinforced or unreinforced thermoplastic polymers (amorphous or semi-crystalline). The process involves injecting the polymer in a "molten" state into a mold cavity, then cooling the material to solidify it into the desired shape, and finally ejecting it from the mold. The process consists of two main elements:

• the mould or "tool", which shapes the material;

• the injection and closing unit, which melts the polymer, locks the tooling and carries out the injection.

Injected parts are cooled over a wide temperature range, from injection temperature to ejection temperature. Thermal regulation of the mold during the cycle is ensured by a network of channels through which a heat-transfer fluid circulates....