In Injection Molding

1. Maintain Mold Integrity & Longevity

2. Ensuring Product Quality

Contaminants on the mold can lead to defects such as blemishes, streaks, or parting line mismatches. A clean mold ensures that the parts produced meet tight tolerances without warping or deformation caused by residue interference.

3. Reducing Downtime

Clean molds reduce the frequency of stoppages caused by defects or ejection issues. Preventive cleaning reduces unplanned maintenance, ensuring continuous production and higher overall equipment effectiveness.

4. Improving Safety and Cleanliness

Using proper cleaners minimizes the release of harmful fumes or dust. Non-cleaned molds can have sharp burrs or sticky surfaces that pose safety risks to workers.

5. Compatibility with Various Materials

Modern mold cleaners are formulated to be compatible with different mold materials (e.g., steel, aluminum) and coatings, which ensures effective cleaning without damaging the mold.

Types of Mold Cleaners

1. Solvent-Based Mold Cleaners

• Use: Dissolves and removes grease, wax, silicones, and resin buildup.
• Example Products: IMS Mold Cleaner Red 2000
• Pros: Quick-drying, effective on tough contaminants.
• Cons: May be flammable or emit strong fumes—proper ventilation needed.

2. Non-Flammable Mold Cleaners

• Use: Ideal for environments where fire hazards are a concern.
• Example Products: IMS Mold Cleaner White 2000 and Economy Mold Cleaner NEW formula IMS Mold Cleaner White 25 Coming Soon!
• Pros: Safer to use near hot molds or in enclosed areas.

3. Citrus-Based or Bio-Based Mold Cleaners

• Use: Eco-friendly cleaning, often used for light to moderate residue.
• Example Products: IMS Citrus Spray, IMS SafeKlean Mold Cleaner, IMS Citrus 50 plus Mold Cleaner
• Pros: Lower toxicity, biodegradable.
• Cons: Less aggressive; not suitable for heavy buildup.

4. Foaming Mold Cleaners

• Use: Clings to vertical mold surfaces, allowing deeper penetration.
• Pros: Ideal for overhead or hard-to-reach mold areas.
• Example Products: IMS C-Foam Mold Cleaner

5. Dry Mold Cleaners / Air Dusters

• Use: Remove dry dust, plastic powder, or light debris.
• Pros: No drying time; safe for sensitive surfaces.

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Cleaning Procedures

1. In-Press Cleaning (Quick Cleaning During Production)

Between short production runs or color/material changes.

• Steps:
  • Open the mold.
  • Spray solvent-based or non-flammable cleaner on the cavity/core.
  • Wipe with lint-free cloth.
  • Resume molding after full evaporation.

2. Offline Cleaning (Thorough Maintenance)

During scheduled downtime or mold changeovers.

• Steps:
  • Remove the mold from the machine.
  • Disassemble (if needed) for access to all surfaces.
  • Clean with appropriate solvent or bio-based cleaner.
  • Use soft brushes or non-metallic scrapers for buildup.
  • Dry thoroughly and apply rust preventive (e.g., rust inhibitor spray).

3. Ultrasonic Cleaning (for Small, Intricate Molds)

Deep cleaning of complex geometries or tiny vents.

• Method: Place mold inserts in an ultrasonic tank with cleaning fluid. Cavitation removes residue without abrasion.

4. Dry Ice Blasting (Non-Abrasive Heavy Cleaning)

For removing heavy buildup without damaging surfaces.

• Method: CO₂ pellets are blasted onto mold surfaces. No secondary waste, no disassembly needed.

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Best Practices

Apply rust inhibitors after cleaning to prevent corrosion. Clean while the mold is still warm (but not hot) to loosen residue. Always follow the chemical cleaner’s SDS (safety data sheet). Use proper PPE—gloves, safety glasses, and masks if needed.