The injection molding industry plays an important role in the production of a variety of plastic products. Within this process, the injection port plays a key role, directly affecting the quality and production efficiency. Choosing the appropriate pump gate type is an important factor determining the product's success. The following article will help readers explore the world of pump gate types, along with the advantages, disadvantages, and specific applications of each type. Thanks to that, readers will gain solid foundational knowledge to choose the appropriate pump gate for their products, optimize production efficiency, and improve product quality.
1. Types of Injection Gates in The Injection Molding Industry
The injection port plays an important role in the plastic injection molding process, directly affecting product quality and efficiency. Choosing the appropriate injection gate type depends on many factors such as product size, shape, plastic material used, and aesthetic requirements. Below are the most common types of injection gates in the injection molding industry:
1.1. Side gate
Side gate, also known as a side pump gate, is the most common type of injection gate, used to introduce plastic into the mold cavity from the side of the product.
Advantages:
- Simple, easy to produce.
- Causes few defects on the product surface.
- Little impact on product aesthetics.
- Suitable for a wide range of products, sizes, and materials.
Disadvantages:
- May leave burrs on the product surface.
- Limited ability to control resin flow.
1.2. Point gate
Point gate, also known as a point pump gate, is a small injection port used to inject plastic into a specific point on the product.
Advantages:
- Creates a small vestige (or mark) after cutting.
- Suitable for small-sized products with high aesthetic requirements.
Disadvantages:
- Difficult to produce.
- Plastic flow can be significantly affected by mold design.
- May cause defects on the product surface.
- Difficult to design and fabricate, which can lead to material shortages in some areas.
1.3. Submarine gate
Submarine gate, also known as an underground pump gate, is a type of pump port placed below the product surface, helping to hide the gate's marks.
Advantages:
- Plastic flow is evenly distributed.
- Creates a small vestige (or mark) after cutting.
- Highly aesthetic, suitable for products requiring a high surface finish.
Disadvantages:
- Production costs are higher.
- More difficult to repair and maintain.
- Difficult to design and process, which can lead to material jams.
1.4. Film gate
Film gate, also known as a membrane pump gate, is a thin injection gate used to introduce molten plastic into the mold cavity in a sheet-like form.
Advantages:
- Creates a small vestige (or mark) after cutting.
- Suitable for products with large, flat areas.
- Offers good control over product thickness and minimizes defects.
- Produces a smooth, glossy product surface.
Disadvantages:
- Requires higher production costs compared to other gate types.
- Presents challenges in repair and maintenance.
- The complex design and manufacturing process can lead to material leakage.
1.5. Ring gate
Ring gate is a circular injection port used to inject plastic into the mold cavity in a circular path.
Advantages:
- Effectively prevents air leaks.
- Suitable for products with complex shapes.
- Highly aesthetic, suitable for products requiring high perfection.
- Evenly distributes plastic in the mold cavity, limiting shrinkage.
Disadvantages:
- High production costs.
- Difficult to produce.
- May cause defects (burrs) on the product surface.
1.6. Fan gate
Fan gate, also known as a fan pump gate, is a fan-shaped injection port used to inject plastic into the mold cavity from multiple directions.
Advantages:
- Creates a small vestige (or mark) after cutting.
- Offers good control over plastic flow, minimizing defects.
- Facilitates fast and even filling of the mold cavity, making it suitable for complex shapes.
Disadvantages:
- More complex design and manufacturing process compared to other gate types.
- May leave visible marks on the product surface.
1.7. Sprue gate
Sprue gate, also known as cylindrical injection gate, is the simplest type of injection gate, used to inject plastic directly into the mold cavity.
Advantage:
- Low cost.
- Simple, easy to produce, design and process.
- Easy to design and process, suitable for small and simple products.
Disadvantages:
- Difficulty in disassembly.
- Affects product aesthetics.
- Leaves many burrs (small holes) and defects on the product surface.
2. Select The Appropriate Pump Port
Choosing the right injection port type is a key factor affecting product quality and performance in the injection molding industry: overall cycle time, cost, product finish, and aesthetics. Choosing the wrong pump port type can lead to many problems such as:
- Increased cycle time: Due to the pump port causing too many defects.
- The product has a shortage of materials: Due to the pump port size being too small.
- The product surface is pitted and rough: Due to the plastic injection speed being too fast or slow.
- Burrs and joints appear: Due to improper pump port placement.
- The product is distorted and warped: Due to uneven distribution of plastic flow.
Therefore, determining the type of injection port and the appropriate location of the injection port in the mold manufacturing process plays an extremely important role in ensuring product quality and improving production efficiency. Below are some tips to help you choose the right pump port, helping to optimize the production process:
- Factors to consider when choosing a pump port:
(1) Plastic materials used;
(2) Aesthetic requirements;
(3) Product size and shape;
(4) Production capacity of injection molding machine.
- Some tips for choosing pump ports:
(1) Consult the injection molding machine and mold supplier.
(2) Use simulation software to optimize pump port location and size.
(3) Experiment with different types of pump ports to find the best fit for your product.
- Pump port selection process:
(1) Determine product size, shape, materials, and aesthetic requirements;
(2) Consider the production capabilities of the injection molding machine;
(3) Select the appropriate pump port type;
(4) Consult experts if necessary.
- Notes when using pump port:
(1) Periodically check and maintain the pump port.
(2) Clean the pump port regularly to ensure efficient operation.
(3) Design and process the pump port accurately to avoid material leakage and affect product quality.
3. Conclusion
The injection gate, also known as the pump port, is a critical element for an efficient injection molding process. Choosing the appropriate pump port type and location plays an extremely important role. Selecting the wrong pump port can lead to a multitude of problems that affect product quality, efficiency, and production costs.
Take the time to research carefully, consider influencing factors, and consult with reputable sources to choose the most suitable pump port type. By carefully selecting the most suitable pump port type, you can optimize the injection molding process, enhance product quality and production efficiency, ultimately leading to cost savings and a competitive edge.
4. Về EuroPlas
EuroPlas filler masterbatches are a leading solution for cost-effective plastic processing, thanks to our extensive experience and advanced technology. We are committed to providing customers with effective plastic processing solutions, meeting all the most demanding needs and standards of the market.
When it comes to pump ports, EuroPlas is your one-stop shop! Our team can help you choose the most suitable pump port type for your product, optimizing material usage and minimizing defects. Contact our expert consultants today to receive a free consultation and optimize your injection molding process! You can reach us via hotline, email, or leave your information on our form for prompt support.