Hot runner specialist Oerlikon HRSflow has developed new external valve gate end rings for the Tp and Vp nozzle series. Also new is a Through The Cavity (TTC) end ring for Tp nozzles. What they have in common is their increased wear resistance for processing reinforced thermoplastics and the possibility of restarting at comparatively low temperatures. Processors who manufacture technical components such as gears and structural parts for the automotive, electronics, household appliance and other industries will benefit in particular from these new additions to the MULTIflow HRS portfolio. The use of hot runner systems from Oerlikon HRSflow could be experienced live at Haitian booth during Fakuma 2024 as part of the production of technical injection moulded products.
Thanks to the increased wear and corrosion resistance of the new end rings, they can withstand the processing of materials such as PA6/PA66, PBT, POM, PPA and PPS, which are filled with carbon or glass fibres to increase their mechanical properties. These abrasive reinforcing materials would lead to premature wear of conventional end rings. In contrast, the new solutions designed for the MULTIflow HRS line offer a more durable alternative and an extended service life for the hot runner components thanks to the choice of particularly resistant materials.
Due to the robust design of the new external end rings for Oerlikon HRSflow’s Tp/Vp nozzle series, significantly lower melt temperatures are sufficient to restart processes after shutdowns or interruptions. This reduces the risk of thermal degradation of temperature-sensitive materials, including the release of corrosive gases when processing flame-retardant materials. The smaller injection point due to the reduced diameter of these end rings also provides greater flexibility and precision during the injection process for uniform filling of the cavities – ideal for applications that require good mechanical properties combined with high optical quality at the injection point. The special geometry of the new TTC end ring for the Tp nozzle series also ensures a wide processing window and a uniform temperature near the gate for a good restart at low temperatures to prevent material degradation. The 4 mm reduction in bushing diameter increases flexibility in positioning the injection point and simplifies production and maintenance. The result is shorter set-up times and lower labor costs while increasing overall productivity.
Technical applications live on sit
At Fakuma 2024, Oerlikon HRSflow has showcased innovations in hot runner systems specifically designed for technical applications. At Haitian, a Zhafir Zeres Series 1500V electric injection moulding machine was produced PA6.6-GF30 cable clippers weighing just 1.2 g in a 16-cavity mould. The machine will be equipped with a real-time monitor that visualises the filling behaviour. The dryer, material feed and temperature control unit, all three also from Haitian, are integrated into the control system. The hot runner configuration consists of 16 nozzles from the Oerlikon HRSflow Sa series with an open gating system. Specially developed for processing glass fibre reinforced plastics, they ensure perfect cavity filling and outstanding process repeatability.