Introduction to HDPE
High-Density Polyethylene, also known as HDPE, is a type of thermoplastic polymer that is used in the production of plastic products such as containers, pipes, and films among other parts due to its strong, lightweight, and durable properties.
HDPE Applications
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a versatile plastic material that is commonly used in the manufacturing of a wide variety of products, including:
- Milk jugs and containers
- Bags and packaging material
- Pipes and fittings
- Plastic toys
- Plastic drums and containers
- Outdoor furniture
- Protective gear such as helmets and padding
Injection Molding HDPE
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is typically injection molded. The following steps highlight how to injection mold HDPE plastic parts:
- Melting the HDPE pellets: The HDPE pellets are melted in a hopper and then transferred to a temperature-controlled barrel.
- Injecting the melted HDPE: The melted HDPE is injected into a mold cavity using a reciprocating screw. The screw applies pressure to the melted HDPE to fill the mold cavity evenly.
- Cooling and solidification: The mold is cooled to allow the HDPE to solidify and create a part in the shape of the mold.
- Ejection of the formed part: Once the HDPE has solidified, the mold plates open and the completed part is ejected.
Injection molding is a highly efficient process that can produce large quantities of high-quality HDPE parts in a short period of time. The process allows for precise control of the final product.
HDPE Mold Flashing
HDPE plastic parts can develop a flash condition during molding. The term flashing refers to the excess material that forms around the edges of a molded part as a result of the material seeping out of the mold cavity. This can occur when the material is under pressure and is forced into areas of the mold where it should not be. Flashing can also occur if the mold is not designed properly or if there are issues with the injection molding machine.
While some flashing can be considered normal, excessive flashing can affect the quality and strength of the molded part. In order to minimize flashing, it is important to have a properly designed mold and to use appropriate processing conditions (such as the correct temperature, pressure, and injection speed) during the molding process.
Nitrofreeze provides cryogenic deflashing services for HDPE plastic parts that need residual molding flash removed after molding operations. We provide these services with a rapid, two business day turnaround. Are you interested in sending in samples for a no-cost deflashing evaluation? Please contact us at info@nitrofreeze.com or call us at (508) 459-7447 to send your samples today.