Overview Specifications Brochure Technical assistance? Call (+49) 69 1534 3013 Thermal Balance Conformal cooling and variothermal process by our partner Contura MTC During production cycle, cooling the mold is an important detail to keep in mind if you wish to maximize production process and avoid defects. Thermal balance is one of the three key points of Matsui´s approach to production and our concept factor4. We have established a long-lasting partnership with the temperature control expert Contura MTC GmbH. They are the leading company regarding conformal coolign and variothermal process benefit from techniques. Importance of cooling cycle time With a conventional process, the cooling phase usually takes about 66% of the whole cycle time, while the remaining 34% is dedicated to other auxiliary times. The innovative techniques developed by our partner, however, allow to cut cooling times by an average of 30% of the entire cycle. Conformal cooling Conformal cooling developed by Contura differentiates from conventional processes because the cooling channels in the mold are much closer to the cavity wall than normal ones. A complex net of channels runs within the mold depending on its shape; the trail is determined through an engineering calculation. Thanks to this configuration, the temperature on the cavity wall presents only a few degrees difference with the temperature of the cooling channel. Cooling becomes much more efficient, allowing to reduce cycle time and energy consumption, which has a positive impact on the carbon footprint. Depending on the case, the ROI when using conformal cooling might be lower than 6 months. Moreover, savings over lifetime will reach the amount of 160.000,00 euros; you will save 15% of piece costs of molding. Variothermal process The variothermal technique consists of rapid heat and cool of the mold during production, and can reduce or even eliminate the painting process. Before injection the cavity gets heated up and it switches to cooling only after the volumetric filling. After the freeze off, the molded part is ejected and the heating starts again for another injection process. Variotherm allows to obtain better optical results in molded parts: they present a higher gloss and improved quality in matt finish. Moreover, when it comes to optical parts, this process can have a positive effect on the birefringence. Flowlines and silver streaks become less visible, reducing also the risk of warpage caused by shrinkage. The glass fibers distribute more evenly, ensuring an improvement in parts´ mechanical properties and stability. Application in practice At the past Fakuma 2023, we shared our booth in cooperation with Contura and displayed thermal balance techniques inserted into a functioning mold demonstration operating with 100% recycled material. Moreover, we brought this matter into the two speeches we hosted at the trade show, in order to spread awareness on this and other topics we hold close to our core philosophy. If you are curious to discover more about one of these topics, click on one of the buttons below. Booth Fakuma 2023 Speeches Fakuma 2023 Booth Fakuma 2024 Are you interested in these solutions and would like to find out more? Get in contact with us here!
