Feature

The importance of a controlled tool temperature

RP Technologies manufacture prototype injection mould tooling from aluminium. However, its service differs slightly to other prototype tool makers & moulders as it manufactures tooling to production standard, including cooling and heating channels.

05/11/2018 13:51:59

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There seems to be a common misconception in the industry that aluminium moulds do not need cooling channels due to aluminium transferring heat more effectively than steel,
so RP Technologies wanted to explain the importance of controlling tool temperatures when using aluminium tools.

Part of the statement is true, aluminium has a 5x better heat
transfer rate (depending on the grade) than steel. With better conductivity, the position of cooling channels becomes less critical than with steel tooling.

However, RP Technologies believe the part
about aluminium moulds not needing cooling channel isn‘t true. Without the ability to heat or maintain a consistent tool temperature, the moulder will encounter flow issues, appearance problems
but most importantly dimensional and warping problems. The cooling channels allow the moulder to maintain a steady tool temperature, eliminating these issues.

Read the full article in the November issue of DPA

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.