Molds & Tooling
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Thermal Expansion Out of Control of PEEK High-Temperature Molds
Problem Phenomenon
PEEK molds show guide pin seizure, slide galling, and fitting surface scoring at working temperatures of 180~200℃, and mold life is significantly shortened.
Cause Analysis
When the mold rises from room temperature to the high-temperature working zone, the thermal expansion of each component differs; fits designed at room temperature become interference-stuck at high temperature; long-term high-temperature operation of PEEK molds accelerates wear of guide components.
Solution
①Design the mold fitting clearances corrected for the thermal expansion at working temperature; ②Select high-temperature-resistant mold steel and high-temperature lubrication; ③Preheat the mold and heat up slowly to reduce thermal shock; ④Establish a special maintenance cycle for high-temperature molds.
Key Takeaway
PEEK mold design must consider the thermal expansion at 200℃-level working temperatures; room-temperature fitting data cannot be directly applied; the maintenance cost of high-temperature molds should be included in the project budget.
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