Common gate designs used in injection molding machines include:
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Sprue Gate: A simple gate design where the molten plastic is injected into the mold through a single entry point called the sprue. This gate is typically used for larger parts and can leave a small, easily removable mark on the finished product.
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Submarine Gate: Also known as a tunnel gate, this gate is located below the parting line of the mold. It is often used for parts that require a gate mark to be hidden or minimized.
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Edge Gate: This gate is located at the edge of the part and is used for parts where appearance is critical, as it leaves a minimal gate mark. It is commonly used for flat parts or parts with thin walls.
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Hot Runner Gate: In this design, the plastic is injected through a heated runner system directly into the cavity, without the need for a separate gate. Hot runner systems are more complex and expensive but can reduce cycle times and material waste.
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Pin Gate: A gate design where the plastic is injected through a small pin directly into the cavity. This gate is often used for parts with intricate geometries or where gate marks must be minimized.
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Fan Gate: Also known as a tab gate, this gate design is used for parts with larger surface areas. It creates a wide, flat gate that allows for even distribution of the molten plastic.
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Film Gate: This gate design is used for thin-walled parts or parts where appearance is critical. It creates a thin gate that minimizes the appearance of the gate mark on the finished part.
These are just a few common gate designs used in injection molding machine. The choice of gate design depends on factors such as part geometry, material, appearance requirements, and production volume.