Process
Pressure molding is a method that provides production of finished parts which are at a high dimensional sensitivity out of non ferrous metals such as aluminum and zinc. It is performed through filling liquid metal into the mould that is made from hot work steel under pressure. Demand for pressure molding method has recently increased significantly within all developed countries. Quality, qualified molding and continuous success in terms of pressure molding method is possible through the control of factors below.
1) Design of molding parts
Flow of the metal and pulling points should be taken into consideration in order to have good results from the molding part. Differences among the edges should be less if possible.
2) Selection of alloys
It should be provided that alloys are proper ones for the pressure molding method. Chemical analysis of the alloys should be controlled and getting dirty should be prevented during melting.
3) Mold Design
Ideal mold should be designed as performing the calculation of heating and cooling, air discharge, making runners available and placing the molding part into the mold.
4) Mold production
The right selection of steel that fits into the pressure molding should be obtained for the mold. Toughness and surface features should be controlled.
5) Maintenance of the Molds
Old parts of the molds should be renewed fast and continuous maintenance of moving parts and cooling channels should be done. Annealing operation should be performed periodically in order to increase life of the mold.
6) Training molding personnel
Since pressure molding method is an expensive one, it is an important issue that personnel are trained. Renewing trainings continuously ensures decrease in machine failure and production of faulty tools.
7) Selection of pressure molding machine
Selection of machine is important in order to produce qualified molding parts. To select machines which have more advanced technology and comprehensive to produce technical and complicated parts would be advantageous for the metal worker.