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Reduce Mold Setup Time!

Faster Mold Changeover Saves Time & Money

April 4, 2022

IMS Select: The Hoist Ring Rack

It is a good idea to keep the most common rigging products you use on this cart. You may want to affix user installed labels on your cart to be sure products are returned to their proper location.

Quick Mold Change

Using a video camera, record at least two mold (more preferably) changeovers made by different technicians. Have a meeting with your team, discuss and list what procedures work the best. Everyone has a trick or two up their sleeve that can be passed on.

Here are a few suggestions for discussion:

  1. What can be done while the mold that is coming out is still running?
  2. List the steps to be done as soon as the order comes for the mold change.
  3. List the steps to be done as soon as the machine is shut down.
  4. What can be taken care of before starting the changeover? (Coffee breaks, bathroom breaks, etc.)
  5. Who’s going to troubleshoot running machines while the changeover is in process?

Examine the list. How much set up time can be saved in preparation?

Here’s a few examples of places to shave some time off your set up:

  1. Have the mold being set ready at the machine before shut down
  2. Install FasTie Couplers on your Ejector Bars
  3. Install Quick Change Waterline Fittings
  4. Preheat the mold off line with a spare thermolator
  5. Pre dry your material in a Mobile Drying Hopper
  6. Have an IMS Mobile Set Up Cart stocked and ready to go with Eyebolts, Straps, Bolts, Water Fittings, etc.

Molding Safety Checklist

Inspect the press and surrounding areas including all auxiliary equipment for the following:

  • Is the area clean and free of all potential hazards?
  • Is other electrical equipment that could be hazardous during the operation locked out?
  • Are the correct mold straps used to strap the mold together?
  • Did you perform the daily inspection on the hoist/crane?

Holes in Platens

  • Are the holes in the platen in good condition? Will they be able to hold the mold?

Mold Clamps

  • Are the clamps the correct size for the mold?
  • Are the clamps cracked or bent?
  • How many clamps are needed to hold the mold?
  • Are the clamps spaced evenly? It is essential that the clamps are placed properly.

Clamp Installation

  • Make sure the bolts for the clamps are the correct size & grade.
  • Make sure you are using the proper grade of bolts.
  • Are the bolts in good condition?
  • Check the manufacturer’s torque information to see how much torque needs to be placed on the bolts.
  • Don’t rely on air pressure to torque bolts properly!
  • It is NOT recommended to re-use bolts from a previous application

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