Alqosaibi K., Thakur C., Noor H., Almalki A., Duhduh A., Coulter J.P.
Lehigh University, US
Keywords: hot runner system, Injection molding, rheodrop
A novel technology “Rheodrop” was developed to advance the process of hot runner based injection molding. The technology applies controllable shear rate to the polymer melt during and between injection molding cycles. The application method involves rotating the valve pins inside the hot drops. The intensity of the applied shear rate is controlled by adjusting the rotational speed. The shearing process reduces the viscosity of molten pseudoplastics inside the hot drops. Viscous polymer melts are more prone to produce incompletely filled products due to higher flow resistance. Hence, Rheodrop technology overcomes incomplete filling defect as well as enhances the quality of the molded parts by reducing the viscosity of the processed polymer. In addition, this technology enables processing materials at lower temperatures, which can eliminate/reduce thermal degradation for temperature sensitive materials. Analytical and experimental analysis were performed to investigate the effect of applying Rheodrop technology on the molded parts. Results show significant effect of Rheodrop technology on the molded products.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: TechConnect Briefs 2021
Published: October 18, 2021
Pages: 22 - 26
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topics: 3D Printing, Advanced Manufacturing
ISBN: 978-0-578-99550-2