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Molds & Tooling 2 views

Surface Orange Peel

Problem Phenomenon
The surface of the part is rough in an orange peel pattern. When this defect appears in parts of Process No. 2, it is usually related to specific process parameter ranges or equipment conditions. If it persists, it will directly affect the part qualification rate and production cycle, increasing material loss and rework costs. Timely diagnosis and elimination is a basic requirement for ensuring stable production.
Cause Analysis
1. Mold design factors: improper mold surface treatment, uneven release agent application, unstable material flow on the mold surface, low mold temperature. 2. Mixing quality factors: in the RIM process, the mixing uniformity of the two components is the foundation of all quality; the Reynolds number of the mixing head, the impingement mixing energy, and the residence time distribution are the key engineering parameters determining mixing quality.
Solution
1. Process parameter optimization and adjustment: polish the mold surface, apply release agent evenly, increase mold temperature, improve injection speed control. 2. Systematic troubleshooting method: RIM problem troubleshooting follows the order of "formulation -> mixing -> temperature control -> equipment". First check the two-component ratio and catalyst dosage, then check the mixing head and self-cleaning function, then check the raw material and mold temperature control, and finally check the accuracy of the metering pump and hydraulic system. 3. Preventive management: establish standardized process parameter cards and quality control limits for each mold/product, and regularly conduct process capability index (CPK) evaluation. For recurring problems, use fishbone diagram or 5Why analysis to trace the root cause, and fix the countermeasures as PFMEA control points.
Key Takeaway
This problem is a typical manifestation of surface orange peel in the RIM process; the core of the solution lies in ensuring the precise ratio and full mixing of the two components, while controlling the reaction temperature and curing conditions within the optimal window. It is recommended to start troubleshooting from the mixing system and metering accuracy.
demolding draft anglemold polishingholding pressurecooling timerelease agent

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