Lusin® MC1718 eliminates buildup in injection moulding

Case Study Thermoplastics: Regular routine with mould cleaner reduces maintenance costs and scrap rate

WHAT WE ACHIEVED.

A custom injection molder producing heavy, surface sensitive white parts considerably reduced costs and saved time simply by changing their mould cleaning solution. Due to heavy buildup of residues in the mould cavities, careful and labour-intensive refurbishing was necessary every two weeks, which effectively shut down production for no less than two days. In partnership with Chem-Trend, an advanced cleaning technology was tested and proven to dramatically extend the time between cleaning cycles to six weeks reducing scrap and maintenance hours, and drive production cost savings by approximately 30%.

HOW WE GOT THERE.

The manufacturer shared concerns of high scrap rates as a result of its current injection moulding process for heavy and large critical surface textured white parts.
Chem-Trend’s regional thermoplastics experts visited the production site and observed every step of the process to identify solution-critical parameters. Parts were being produced from flame retarded PC+ABS, which contributed to the steady build-up of polymer residues in the mould cavities. As a result, the surface of the parts appeared “spotted” and uneven in texture (see photo before cleaning) triggering not only a high scrap rate, but also but also required extensive refurbishment.

OUR SOLUTION.

Lusin® MC1718 mould cleaner was recommended and tested given its proven capability to substantially minimize buildup in the mould. The product was applied directly to the mould cavity between two cycles, and after some reacting time, polymer buildups were softened and pulled from the mould through the process of producing parts. This method not only allowed for a quick and easy cleaning without having to dismantle and handle the mould, but it also enabled the thorough cleaning of hard-to-reach areas. The new approach was proven successful and implemented into a new regular maintenance routine.

30%

REDUCTION IN MAINTENANCE COST

60-70%

REDUCTION OF REFURBISHMENT CYCLES/ YEAR

11%

REDUCTION OF SCRAP PARTS