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TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)

Typical Machine Settings: Subject To Polymer Grade

Nozzle

Front

Centre

Rear

Barrel Temperature

220 - 240oC

220 - 240oC

200 - 220oC

180 - 200oC

Melt Temperature

220 - 240oC

Must be measured with a pyrometer by taking an airshot through the injection machine nozzle.

Hot Runner Temperature

220 - 240oC

Mould Temperature

30 - 45oC

Run at upper end of range for best flow.

Injection Rate

Moderate To Fast

Specific Injection Pressure

500 - 1000 Bar (7,500 - 15,000psi)

Screw Back Pressure

10 - 15Bar (150 - 220psi)

Screw Speed

20 - 80rpm

Processing Features

Structure

Semi-Crystalline

Specific Gravity

1.17

Viscosity

Medium

Use medium runners.

Shear Rate Susceptibility

High

Use small to medium gates - high shear improves flow.

Temperature Window

Medium

Needs fairly accurate & stable control

Residence Time

Medium

Aim for short residence time

Start-Up Precedure
  • Ensure all heaters are thoroughly baked dry - do not rely on brief ‘soft start’ systems to do this.
  • Fast Heat controllers automatically and safely bakeout wet heaters - ask for details.
  • Turn on water lines to stabilise tool and manifold temperatures.
  • Turn on manifold control zone(s) and allow to warm up until measured value is within 10oC of setpoint.
  • Now turn on tip zones and allow to settle at setpoint for 5 - 10 minutes before starting production.
  • Take an airshot from the machine barrel and check that the melt temperature is correct.
  • Start moulding parts on a semi-automatic cycle until suitable machine settings are established.
  • Avoid lengthy delays between cycles during this setting procedure.
  • Switch to automatic cycle when parts are being produced, and fine tune the machine settings

Shut-Down Precedure

The machine and mould may be shut down normally, without purging the TPE from either the barrel or the hot runner.